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General Insurance newsletter Friday 28th November 2025

Insurance NewsInsurance business valuation calculator - Are you planning your 2026 business strategy, but are perhaps lacking credible data and insights on your business performance? Our free business calculator for brokers, insurers and MGAs provides an instant valuation, based on your company's profile, revenue and profit, offering you the essential data you need to make key business decisions. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Insurance business valuation calculator')InsurTech market insights - The InsurTech market is poised for continued growth, creating a huge opportunity for traditional insurers to overhaul their product distribution strategies. Read IDEX's analysis on which product lines are growing and how businesses across insurance can capitalise on them. (IDEX Consulting news, 'InsurTech market insights')The Risk and Compliance professionals employment market - Candidates no longer tolerate poor interview experiences, making slick processes essential to attract quality professionals. Jack Johnson, our Risk & Compliance recruiter shares what professionals are looking for in this market and how to attract the very best. (IDEX Consulting news, 'The Risk and Compliance professionals employment market')How insurers and brokers are winning with predictive analytics - As competition intensifies, predictive analytics separates winners from followers in insurance. Our article reveals how brokers and insurers are transitioning from technology experiments to scalable solutions that address complex workflows, compliance demands, and customer expectations. Discover the strategies driving success. (IDEX Consulting news, 'How insurers and brokers are winning with predictive analytics')Lloyd’s highlights mounting pressures for 2026, including inadequate casualty rates, rapid cyber growth outpacing risk capacity, and fast-declining property rates, emphasising the need for underwriting discipline, sustainable profitability, and principles-based oversight amidst a softening market and evolving risk landscapes.(Kenneth Araullo, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Lloyd’s flags mounting pressures as market heads into 2026')The UK Autumn Budget introduces measures to support SMEs, such as free apprenticeships for under-25s and broader skills investment, which SJL Insurance Services views as constructive for addressing skills shortages, alongside a National Living Wage increase; however, insurers warn of rising risks like underinsurance, inflation-driven costs, and operational challenges. (Kenneth Araullo, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'UK Autumn Budget puts SME skills in focus as insurers flag rising risks')The London Market Group's Data Council has launched a 12-week consultation on the claims component of the Core Data Record (CDR), aiming to standardise claims data for improved automation, reduced duplication, and faster settlements. This initiative, aligned with ACORD’s GRLC standard, builds on the existing placing CDR and supports the market's digitalisation and global interoperability goals. (Josh Recamara, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'London Market Group launches consultation on new Core Data Record for claims')Temple Legal Protection has been awarded Corporate Chartered Insurance Underwriting Agent status by the Chartered Insurance Institute, recognising its high standards in underwriting, staff training, and client service. Managing Director Laurence Pipkin highlighted the accreditation as a testament to the firm's professionalism and market trust, further bolstered by its recent Chambers directory listing. (Josh Recamara, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Temple Legal Protection accredited by Chartered Insurance Institute')CFC launches Cyber Threat Review, a tool providing SMEs with personalised, plain-language threat analyses to bridge the cyber protection gap. Designed to help brokers engage smaller businesses, the reports translate technical risks into business terms, addressing barriers like lack of awareness and confusion over cyber insurance, while supporting global adoption and new income streams. (Kenneth Araullo, 27/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'CFC launches cyber tool to bridge SME protection gap')QBE Insurance Group reported steady premium growth, robust investment returns, and lower-than-expected catastrophe losses for the first nine months of 2025, reaffirming its full-year guidance and announcing a A$450 million share buyback program. (Kenneth Araullo, 27/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'QBE expands premiums, reaffirms full-year guidance amid favourable cat losses')Shares of China Taiping Insurance fell sharply as the company faces potential liabilities from the deadly Wang Fuk Court fire in Hong Kong, which has killed at least 44 people, left hundreds missing, and raised concerns about construction safety and underinsurance. (Stephen Owens, 27/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Major insurer’s shares plummet as deadly Hong Kong fire rages')The Association of British Insurers (ABI) criticised the Autumn Budget for capping salary sacrifice pensions and maintaining high Insurance Premium Tax rates, warning these measures could undermine retirement savings, investor confidence, and private health insurance uptake. (Josh Recamara, 27/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Budget missed opportunity to support growth and protection, UK insurers warn')Staysure founder Ryan Howsam urged the UK government to reform tax and regulatory policies to retain talent and attract entrepreneurs, warning that current measures are driving high-net-worth individuals and businesses overseas. (Josh Recamara, 27/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Staysure founder says UK must reset tax and regulation to support growth')AXA XL's Future Risks Report highlights cyber as a top concern for UK businesses, warning that evolving threats like AI-driven attacks, cloud vulnerabilities, and advanced phishing require insurers and clients to enhance resilience and adapt to the shifting risk landscape. (Emily Douglas, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'We haven't seen the full scale of AI yet': AXA XL warns UK cyber risk is only growing')The IUA is prioritising underwriting discipline, policy clarity, and claims innovation, with new initiatives like a Chief Underwriting Officer Council and updated claims practices aimed at improving feedback loops, addressing emerging risks, and fostering talent in the London market. (Bryony Garlick, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'IUA sharpens focus on underwriting discipline and claims innovation')A Coalition survey revealed that nearly 75% of UK SMEs experienced cyber incidents in the past five years, yet 35% have dropped standalone cyber insurance, highlighting a gap in coverage despite rising threats and increasing costs of cyberattacks. (Kenneth Araullo, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Nearly three-quarters of UK SMEs hit by cyber incidents, but coverage still lacking – Coalition')Moody's identified 10 emerging risks for 2026, including intensifying natural catastrophes, systemic cyber disruptions, and liability exposures like PFAS chemicals, urging insurers to adapt underwriting models, enhance risk mitigation, and prepare for evolving global challenges. (Josh Recamara, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Moody's identifies 10 emerging risks set to reshape global insurance market in 2026')Brokerslink has added three specialist affiliates - Corporate Counselling Services, HealthNEXT, and Inova Care - to enhance its employee benefits offerings. These additions strengthen capabilities in mental health, healthcare management, and population health, reflecting growing demand for integrated wellbeing and operational solutions. (Josh Recamara, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Brokerslink announces new specialist affiliates')Tom Bolt, a veteran insurance leader with over 40 years of experience at AIG, Berkshire Hathaway, and Lloyd's of London, has passed away. Known for his contributions to underwriting standards and risk management, Bolt's legacy includes pivotal roles in shaping industry practices and operational excellence. (Kenneth Araullo, 25/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'AIG risk chief and insurance industry vet Tom Bolt dies')According to LexisNexis, UK insurers are under growing pressure to address long-term flood risks, with projections showing over 600,000 additional properties at high risk by 2100. Their climate datasets aim to help insurers model future risks, adapt underwriting, and mitigate escalating claims and infrastructure challenges. (Kenneth Araullo, 25/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'UK insurers confront century-long flood risk as climate reshapes underwriting')According to the Commons Business and Trade Committee, the UK is increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks and economic coercion. The Committee has called for a cyber backstop and an Economic Security Bill to protect critical infrastructure, mitigate risks, and enhance national resilience against modern threats. (Josh Recamara, 25/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Commons Committee calls for cyber backstop to strengthen UK economic security')Allianz UK has earned an EcoVadis Silver Medal for sustainability, placing in the top 10% of 130,000 companies assessed globally. This recognition highlights its strong environmental performance and reflects a broader trend among UK insurers to enhance ESG credentials through external validation and transparent reporting. (Josh Recamara, 25/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'UK insurers step up sustainability efforts as Allianz UK earns EcoVadis Silver Medal')Insurance asset managers are increasingly exploring stablecoins for portfolio diversification, yield generation, and faster transactions. While stablecoins offer benefits like efficient liquidity management and streamlined operations, insurers must address risks such as counterparty exposure and evolving regulations. Their integration could drive innovation in insurance products and global financial strategies. (Josh Recamara, 24/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance asset managers start exploring stablecoins')Mergers and AcquisitionsSodalis Capital, a London-based insurance investment platform led by Colin Thompson, has launched with backing from major investors like Alliant and BP Marsh, aiming to acquire managing general agent platforms and drive sustainable growth in the insurance intermediary sector. (Kenneth Araullo, 27/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'New insurance platform Sodalis launches with eye on intermediary acquisitions')The UK P&I Club and TT Club have entered early discussions on a potential merger, aiming to create a market-leading mutual that enhances service, financial stability, and resilience amid rising claims and regulatory pressures in the global transport and maritime sectors. (Josh Recamara, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'UK P&I and TT Club begin talks on potential merger')MovesArch Insurance International appoints Beth Jenkins, formerly of Allied World, as Senior Casualty Underwriter to support the expansion of its UK risk-managed retail platform and wholesale EEA business, with Jenkins reporting to Marie-Claire Bessada, head of retail, general liability.(Josh Recamara, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen, Arch Insurance, Tokio Marine and The Swedish Club')Pen Underwriting announces a new leadership structure for its marine practice, effective Jan. 1, 2026, retaining marine underwriting specialisms while introducing pan-practice roles to drive growth and consistency. Tom Batterbury will lead marine war and professional indemnity (Vessel Protect and Freeboard), Jack Buchan will head Fortify (brown water hull), James King will oversee BMM Ports & Terminals, and Stephen Loader will lead TMT (tailored cover for marine businesses). Munro Anderson is promoted to Director of Strategy and Operations, James Kent becomes Commercial Director, and Co-Managing Directors Paul Hartley and Chris Goddard will depart as part of the restructuring. (Josh Recamara, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen, Arch Insurance, Tokio Marine and The Swedish Club')Tokio Marine Kiln recruits Harry Gregory, formerly of Marsh, to its liability team, where he will report to departmental head Oliver Delaney. Gregory brings expertise in managing multinational programs across the energy, power, and renewables sectors. (Josh Recamara, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen, Arch Insurance, Tokio Marine and The Swedish Club')The Swedish Club appoints Terri Jay, formerly of Gard AS, as Head of Charterers & Traders. With three decades of international underwriting and leadership experience, Jay's appointment enhances technical capabilities and expands services for global charterers and traders, according to Managing Director Thomas Nordberg. (Josh Recamara, 28/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen, Arch Insurance, Tokio Marine and The Swedish Club')Glemham Underwriting has appointed Kirsty Blois as lead Professional Indemnity Underwriter. With over 28 years of experience at firms like Arch and Hiscox, Blois will focus on complex service industry risks, strengthening Glemham’s PI offerings as the MGA continues its hands-on underwriting approach. (Josh Recamara, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Glemham Underwriting and Davies')Davies has appointed Reshma Jose as Vice President and Finance Lead of its captive management business. With over a decade of experience at Aon, EY, and Deloitte, Jose will oversee financial strategy, compliance, and investments across Davies’ global captive operations, supporting its international growth strategy. (Josh Recamara, 26/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Glemham Underwriting and Davies')Amiga Specialty has expanded its transactional risks division with new hires, including Sam Batchelor as Head of Transactional Risks Europe, supported by Underwriters Meeza KeziahCabansag and George Brain. This move aligns with Amiga’s goal to lead in warranty & indemnity coverage across the UK and EU, backed by multi-million-pound capacity via the Accelerant Risk Exchange. (Josh Recamara, 25/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Amiga Specialty and Apollo')Apollo is implementing key leadership changes in its MET division as part of a planned succession. Simon Mason will retire on January 1, 2026, after contributing significantly since 2013. Martin Jackson will be promoted to Head of MET, with Mark Phythian and Ciara Sheikh taking on roles as Deputy Head of MET and Class Leader, Cargo, respectively, alongside other internal promotions to ensure continuity. (Josh Recamara, 25/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Amiga Specialty and Apollo')Hylant Group appoints Anne Marie Towle as CEO of Hylant Consulting, where she will lead the expanded consulting division, including analytics, business risk consulting, captive management, M&A solutions, and outsourced services. Towle joined Hylant in 2019 and previously served as CEO of global risk management and captive solutions. (Claire Wilkinson, 24/11/2025, Business Insurance, 'Anne Marie Towle appointed CEO of Hylant Consulting')Crawford & Company has appointed CFO W. Bruce Swain, Jr. as interim President and CEO, effective January 1, 2026, following Rohit Verma's departure. Swain, with over 30 years at Crawford, will also join the board of directors. Holly Boudreau, who joined Crawford in 2013 and previously worked as a Tax Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers, will succeed Swain as CFO. These leadership changes come as the company builds on its strong financial performance and operational momentum. (Kenneth Araullo, 24/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Crawford & Company names CFO as interim chief executive')Liberty Specialty Markets has named Oliver Delvos as Head of Cyber and Technology E&O for Europe, effective December 1. Formerly Managing Director at Corvus Insurance, Delvos brings 15+ years of experience and will lead Liberty's European cyber strategy. The move aligns with Liberty's Invest in Europe 2030 strategy and follows strong Q3 results for Liberty Mutual. (Kenneth Araullo, 24/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Liberty Specialty Markets, Folgate Underwriting Agency')Folgate Underwriting Agency has appointed Mathew Harvey as Head of Professional Indemnity and Debbie Farman as Head of PI Renewals. Joining from Aqueous Underwriting, they bring 50 years of combined expertise, bolstering Folgate's PI capabilities. This follows the launch of its contractors combined policy, streamlining construction insurance for brokers. (Kenneth Araullo, 24/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Liberty Specialty Markets, Folgate Underwriting Agency')Helvetia Group has appointed Martin Gingg as CEO of its Specialty Lines Switzerland & International unit, effective January 1, 2026. Gingg, who also serves as CEO of Helvetia Global Solutions, brings extensive experience from senior roles at National Suisse and Helvetia. This move strengthens Helvetia's specialty insurance leadership as it expands its global portfolio in areas like cyber, renewable energy, and fine art. (Kenneth Araullo, 24/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Helvetia taps Martin Gingg to lead specialty lines unit')United Risk has promoted Hayden Smith to CEO as it marks two years since its formation. Smith, with experience at Enstar Group and StarStone, will lead the MGA’s global operations. Other key appointments include Andrew Lucas as General Counsel, Gregg Holtmeier as Chief Commercial Officer, and Patrick Watson as COO, strengthening United Risk’s leadership as it continues its international growth. (Josh Recamara, 24/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'United Risk strengthens global leadership, names new CEO')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Insurance Business, Business Insurance and IDEX Consulting.

Financial Services newsletter Friday 28th November 2025

Financial Services NewsFinancial experts, including Dominic Tayler of Oakglen Wealth, criticised the Budget for penalising growth through pension investment restrictions and dividend tax hikes. Tayler noted the measures discourage growth despite promises of enterprise support. Concerns were also raised about higher taxes dampening economic growth and creating unintended consequences that could undermine Treasury revenues and stability. (Financial Planning Today, 27/11/2025, 'Budget 25: Advisers react to 'mixed' measures')The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) plans to raise case fees by 4.6% to £680 and the compulsory levy by 10% to £86m in 2026/27, citing inflation and reserve improvements, while aiming to resolve 245,000 cases, including 60,000 motor finance commission cases. (Financial Planning Today, 27/11/2025, 'FOS fees and levies to rise for first time in 3 years')A Wealth Club report reveals declining confidence among wealthy individuals in the UK as an investment destination, with 47% losing faith, only 20% seeing it as a good place to invest, and 64% doubting its appeal for starting a business; 79% feel the UK lacks support for wealth creation, citing taxation and cultural factors, while just 11% find it attractive for entrepreneurship, reflecting a broader sentiment of investor pessimism. (26/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Half of wealthy investors lost faith in UK says report')The Treasury has confirmed a 4.8% increase in the State Pension for 2026/27 under the Triple Lock, raising the full new State Pension to over £240 a week, providing recipients with more than £550 extra annually—£120 more than an inflation-only increase—while the full basic State Pension will rise by around £440 a year. (24/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'State Pension to rise by 4.8% in April Treasury confirms')The FCA is launching a consultation to cut unnecessary reporting requirements, aiming to save regulated firms over £100m annually; recent proposals include reducing MiFID transaction reporting costs from £493m to £385m and scaling back regulatory returns for 95% of firms, part of a broader effort to streamline submissions and reduce red tape for 36,000 firms. (21/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'FCA plans red tape crackdown to save firms £108m')UK financial advisers are adopting a cautious market outlook, prioritizing diversification by increasing allocations to alternatives (36%) and emerging markets (32%), according to Schroders’ survey; with 31% expecting lower equity returns and 60% citing geopolitical disruption, advisers are also focused on technological advances (68%), driven by rapid AI developments and concerns over market bubbles. (20/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Cautious advisers are prioritising diversification')Research from St James’s Place reveals that 95% of consumers receiving ongoing financial advice feel it helps them stay on track with goals, with 85% meeting or exceeding financial targets compared to 64% without advice; advised individuals are twice as likely to have a structured plan (68% vs 32%) and more prepared for retirement, with 58% saving for it compared to 35% of those without advice. (20/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, '95% say financial advice helps them hit financial goals')Tatton Asset Management reported a 20.94% rise in operating profit to £13.111m for the six months to September, with group revenue up 18.6% to £25.691m. Assets Under Management/Influence grew 29.6% to £25.848bn, with November figures reaching £27.126bn and year-to-date net inflows of £2.067bn. Organic net inflows rose by £1.684bn, an annualised 16.1% increase. The number of IFA firms grew 5.4% to 1,170, while accounts increased 8.6% to 167,150. (18/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Tatton profits up 20% and AUM up 30%')PFS President Carla Brown, speaking at the PFS 2025 National Conference in London, called for more women in Financial Planning, noting only 18% of advisers are women. Addressing 1,800 members, she urged the profession to promote careers for women and encouraged female advisers to act as role models. Brown expressed optimism about the PFS’s future, highlighting new initiatives and a collaborative spirit as the organisation moves past recent challenges. (13/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'PFS President calls for more women in Financial Planning')A Scottish Widows survey of 200 UK Paraplanners found 22% are using AI for tasks like meeting notes, documentation, and data gathering to manage increasing workloads driven by regulatory changes. While 82% expect AI to boost efficiency and cut admin in the next five years, only 12% of firms currently have a formal AI policy, with 35% developing one. (13/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, '1 in 5 Paraplanners using AI to meet rising workload')Aviva reported an 8% rise in wealth net flows to £8.3bn for the nine months to 30 September, driven by strong platform and workplace sales. Wealth assets under management grew 7% to £224bn since June, with £1bn in monthly inflows from workplace contributions. Aviva remains on track for £280m operating profit from its wealth division by 2027. (13/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Wealth net inflows rise 8% to £8.3bn for Aviva')Financial Planners are reaching millions on YouTube, with Pete Matthew, CEO of Jackson Financial Planning, leading the way. His Meaningful Money channel has surpassed 10m views over 15 years, reaching one in seven UK adults. A crackdown on fraudulent investment content by YouTube, under FCA pressure, has created opportunities for regulated advisers to provide quality financial education. (12/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'YouTube Planners reaching millions of viewers')Research by Bower Home Finance reveals seven of the UK’s top 10 areas where over-65s are still working are in London. Newham leads with 31% of residents aged 65+ remaining employed, while Newcastle Upon Tyne has the lowest rate at 4%. (7/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Cost of living holding back many Londoners from retiring')M&G has reported £1.8bn in net inflows for Q3, marking a significant improvement from 2024’s net outflows. Year-to-date net inflows now total £3.9bn, continuing the positive trend from H1 2025. Assets under management and administration rose 3% in Q3 to £365bn, with £176bn from external clients. CEO Andrea Rossi expects growth to continue. (5/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'M&G reports £1.8bn of inflows for Q3 as recovery continues')Evelyn Partners’ assets under management reached a record £67bn in Q3, up 3.8% for the quarter and 7.3% year-on-year. Gross inflows rose to £2.1bn, a 17.6% increase from the previous quarter, while net inflows grew 20.5% year-on-year to £269m. The firm also announced a major systems integration project to enhance its focus on AI. CEO Paul Geddes highlighted the firm’s commitment to supporting clients amid tax, pension changes, and Budget uncertainty. (4/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Evelyn’s AUM climbs to record £67bn as it focuses on AI')Biggest challenges facing Financial Advisers - Financial advisers continue to face challenging economic pressures, and growing regulatory changes, as well as rising client expectations. Many are also contending with market uncertainty and the potential risks of AI in financial advising. Despite these challenges, many opportunities exist – IDEX Consulting shares what financial advisers should know and the action they should take now. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Biggest challenges facing Financial Advisers')Counter-offers - the real truth behind the proposal - Before accepting a counter-offer, professionals should evaluate their reasons for resigning, consider the long-term impact on job satisfaction, compare career development opportunities, and seek impartial advice, as research shows most who accept counter-offers leave within a year due to unresolved issues. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Counter-offers - the real truth behind the proposal')How to create an inclusive hybrid and remote culture - Inclusive hybrid cultures require more than just engagement strategic; businesses must actively embed inclusive practices. Hybrid work presents challenges, particularly for marginalised groups, due to biases in virtual settings and accessibility issues. Key strategies include understanding diverse employee experiences, fostering open feedback, and providing tailored training for virtual inclusion. Proactive measures will ensure a more equitable and connected workforce. (IDEX Consulting news, 'How to create an inclusive hybrid and remote culture')Financial Services business valuation calculator - Are you planning your 2026 business strategy but need reliable insights into your business performance? Our free valuation calculator for Financial Services firms provides an instant valuation based on your company's profile, recurring income, and profitability, giving you the essential data to make informed decisions. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Financial services business valuation calculator')Mergers and AcquisitionsWH Ireland shareholders have approved an all-share merger with Team, valuing WH Ireland at £12.7m. The deal, giving WH Ireland shareholders 43% of the combined firm, will create a group with £2.1bn in assets under management and a market cap of £30.3m, pending regulatory and court approval. (Financial Planning Today, 27/11/2025, 'Shareholders give Team takeover of WH Ireland green light')Chartered Financial Planning firm Craven Street Wealth has acquired Pharon Independent Financial Advisers, creating a business advising over 5,800 clients on £2.9bn of assets; founded in 2019, Craven Street Wealth has acquired six firms across southern England and, after joining private equity-backed Quanta Group earlier this year, aims to leverage scale, investment, and technology to enhance adviser capabilities and client outcomes. (25/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Craven Street acquires Canterbury firm Pharon')London-based Chartered Financial Planner The Penny Group has acquired a majority stake in £360m AUM Berkshire firm Harridge Financial Services, marking a strategic merger to enhance client offerings; the deal brings The Penny Group’s total assets to over £2bn with 48 advisers, while Harridge, founded in 1991, will operate as The Penny Group Harridge, with full integration planned over three years. (21/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Penny Group acquires £350m AUM Berks adviser')Titan Wealth is acquiring South Wales-based Thomas Carroll IFA, subject to regulatory approval; established in 1987, the firm manages over £160m in assets and serves 450 clients. The acquisition, from employee-owned Thomas Carroll Group, will see Thomas Carroll IFA staff join Titan’s Welsh Hub, Nugenis, in Cardiff, expanding Titan’s presence in the region and enabling the firm to offer a broader range of services to clients. (18/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Titan Wealth acquires £160m AUA South Wales firm')Howden has acquired Evelyn Partners’ employee benefits arm, EPFS, for an undisclosed sum, with completion expected in Q1 2026, subject to regulatory approval. The sale aligns with Evelyn’s focus on wealth management. EPFS, led by Gareth Sawyer, provides consultancy on group risk, healthcare, and employee benefits, and its 38-strong team will join Howden. The deal bolsters Howden’s UK employee benefits offering, following its March acquisition of Barnett Waddingham. (11/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Howden buys Evelyn’s employee benefits arm')London-based Twelve Wealth Management (TWM) has acquired Smith Hobbs Wealth Management for an undisclosed sum. Smith Hobbs MD Matt Smith, a Chartered Fellow of the CII and CISI, will join TWM, citing the deal as an opportunity to enhance client value. TWM, a St James’s Place partner with 13 advisers, offers Financial Planning and mortgage broking services. (7/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Twelve Wealth Management acquires fellow SJP partner')Azets Wealth Management has acquired chartered financial planning firm Evans Falco LLP for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 2010, Cornwall-based Evans Falco specialises in advising high net worth individuals on complex financial, tax, and later-life planning. The team, led by Chartered Financial Planners Treve Evans and Rosie Falco, will relocate to Azets’ Plymouth and Truro offices, enhancing local presence and client services. (6/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Newcastle-based Azets acquires Cornwall Chartered Planner')Moore Kingston Smith LLP has expanded its financial planning division with the acquisition of CMIS Independent Financial Advisors and Augustine Financial Planning for an undisclosed sum. Both firms hold CII Corporate Chartered status. CMIS, founded in 1988, operates in Essex and Lincolnshire, while Augustine, based in London, brings 40 years of expertise in Financial Planning, wealth management, and tax planning. Augustine also introduces family office services to Moore Kingston Smith, which plans to develop this offering further. (5/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Moore Kingston Smith acquires 2 Financial Planning firms')Plannex, formerly known as NextGen, has acquired financial services training brand About Financial and launched Plannex Training. The new venture offers learning materials for financial professionals preparing for CII exams. About Financial’s director, Jon Dunckley, joins as part-time Director of Training. Co-founder Rohan Sivajoti described the initiative as a complete rebuild of financial training, aiming to make learning practical, up-to-date, and results-driven. (4/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Plannex acquires About Financial and launches training business')South West Financial Plannerand accountancy firm Old Mill, along with its outsourced finance division Brook Financial, has been acquired by Kinbrook Group for an undisclosed sum. Old Mill will serve as Kinbrook’s anchor in the South West, while both firms retain their brands, leadership, and team structures. Kinbrook highlighted benefits such as national infrastructure, shared innovation, collaboration, and broader expertise for the acquired firms. (4/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'South West Planner Old Mill bought by Kinbrook Group')BRI Wealth Management, based in Coventry, has acquired Gloucestershire-based FutureFocus Advisory Limited for an undisclosed sum. The deal adds around £40m in client assets under management to BRI. Founded in 1999 and based in Tewkesbury, FutureFocus Advisory specialises in pensions, retirement planning, investments, and life assurance. Founder Colin Donlon is set to retire following the acquisition. (3/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'BRI Wealth acquires £40m AUM Gloucester firm')InvestAcc Group has acquired AJ Bell’s Platinum SIPP and SSAS business for £25m, boosting assets under administration to £9bn and adding 3,400 customers, 46 staff, and a Manchester office. CEO Will Self called it a key step in expanding InvestAcc’s reach. (3/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'InvestAcc completes £25m takeover of AJ Bell SIPP arm')MoversAngela Byrne, joining Standard Life as CEO of its pension and savings business in January 2026, will succeed Colin Williams, who transformed Phoenix Group into a customer-focused company and launched Standard Life Financial Advice; Byrne brings 20 years of experience from NatWest, where she was interim CEO of the retail bank, and will report to group CEO Andy Briggs. (26/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Standard Life turns to NatWest for pensions and savings head')Sheldon Mills, FCA Executive Director for consumers and competition since 2020, is reportedly leaving his £332,000-a-year role after an extended leave; known for overseeing competition enforcement, Consumer Duty, and AI in financial services, Mills joined the FCA in 2018 after senior roles at the CMA and a legal career, and has also been a trustee and chair of LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall. (24/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'FCA exec Mills set to leave £332k a year role - reports')Chris Cummings, CEO of the Investment Association, will step down in June after 10 years; praised by board chair Ann Prendergast for his leadership, Cummings was recently appointed deputy chair of a government campaign to promote retail investment, with the IA set to begin the search for his successor. (21/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Investment Association CEO to step down')Stuart Dodson has been appointed CEO of True Potential Wealth Management, succeeding Steve Hutton, who left in July after eight months as CEO and seven years with the business, during which he held roles including managing partner. With over 25 years of experience, including positions at Openwork, Newcastle Financial Advisers, and Legal & General, Dodson will lead the firm’s wealth management strategy and join the True Potential Group executive committee as the company strengthens its position in the UK market. (19/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'True Potential turns to Openwork for new wealth CEO')Former NatWest CEO Dame Alison Rose has joined FNZ as Chair of FNZ UK and an FNZ Group board member; with over 30 years in financial services, including her tenure as NatWest CEO until 2023, Dame Alison will help accelerate FNZ’s strategy to make investing more accessible. She also chairs Mishcon de Reya, is a Senior Partner at Charterhouse Capital Partners, and led the Government’s Rose Review of Female Entrepreneurship, earning a Damehood in 2023 for her contributions to financial services. (19/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Ex-NatWest CEO Dame Alison Rose to chair FNZ UK')PortfolioMetrix has named UK CIO Alex Funk as CEO from 1 January 2026, with Founder Brandon Zietsman becoming Executive Chair. Sharné Sanders, Oscar Reitsma, and Natalie Horton take on roles as CCO, COO, and CFO, respectively. Funk will retain investment duties, with Phil Bradford as CIO and Brendan de Jongh leading global investment strategy. (17/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'PortfolioMetrix appoints new CEO and senior team')Barnett Waddingham has appointed Andrew Phipps as Head of SIPP Proposition and Supplier Management. Formerly at Embark Group, Phipps brings extensive experience, including 16 years at Suffolk Life/Curtis Banks and a term as Chair of the SIPP trade body AMPS. (17/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Barnett Waddingham appoints new head of SIPP proposition')Ian Mattioli, Founder of Mattioli Woods, will step down as CEO to become Founding President, with Chairman Peter Mann taking over as CEO. The move follows the firm’s merger with Kingswood, creating a £25bn wealth manager serving 25,000 clients. The merger, backed by Pollen Street Capital, aims to accelerate growth to £60bn in assets and 300 advisers, despite Kingswood’s recent financial challenges and rapid acquisition strategy. (14/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Mattioli Woods CEO steps down as merger nears')Financial Solutions has appointed former Sense Network Executive Leanne Williams as Managing Director, subject to FCA approval. Williams will lead the firm’s 2026 strategy, targeting growth and supporting advisers seeking new opportunities. Founded in 2017 by James Priday, the Exeter-based firm aims to become the go-to partner for advisers seeking independence and efficiency. (14/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Financial Solutions hires new MD in push for growth')The Association of Member-Directed Pension Schemes (AMPS) has reappointed Debbie Seaton of Seabridge SSAS as Chair for a second term. Jon Cuin of Barnett Waddingham remains Honorary Secretary, while Joy West transitions to Treasurer, replacing Tasneem Ul-Haq. Roger Howman of SSAS Reviews takes over as Membership Secretary, and Hannah Davies of Enhance Support Solutions joins the committee. Former Chair Andrew Phipps has stepped down. (10/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'AMPS reappoints Debbie Seaton as chair')Former Transact CEO Jonathan Gunby has joined professional referrals platform RQ as a Board Adviser. Gunby, who retired from Transact in March after a 40-year career, will use his industry expertise to help RQ’s Financial Planning clients grow through professional referrals. (7/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Transact’s former CEO Gunby joins referrals fintech')Gary Stran, Non-Executive Director at wealth manager WH Ireland, has resigned two months earlier than planned, effective 5 November. Chair Simon Moore is still set to step down by 9 January but may also leave early. WH Ireland, facing financial difficulties, is seeking replacements for both directors as it continues efforts to wind up the business and sell key divisions. (5/11/2025, Financial Planning Today, 'Director of troubled WH Ireland quits 2 months early')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Financial Planning Today and IDEX Consulting.

General Insurance newsletter Friday 21st November 2025

Insurance NewsSustainable ways to grow your business: learn how IDEX can help - IDEX Consulting facilitated the acquisition of Morton Insurance Brokers by Specialist Risk Group, ensuring a seamless transition for clients and employees. As well as enabling Morton’s founder, Adrian Morton, to plan for retirement IDEX enabled the firm's expansion, supporting long term sustainable growth. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Sustainable ways to grow your business: learn how IDEX can help')Which AI solutions work for you? - Platforms like InsurGPT, Eigen Technologies, and Guidewire are totally reshaping the insurance industry. Are you maximising your team’s efficiency? Find out which cutting-edge AI insurance tech you should be implementing to boost productivity and stay competitive. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Which AI solutions work for you?')How will a bespoke regulation will impact MGAs? - With 68% of brokers demanding bespoke MGA regulation and the market hitting $109 billion in premiums, change is coming. IDEX examines how new frameworks will reshape operations, partnerships, and compliance, and what MGAs must do now to prepare for transformation. (IDEX Consulting news, 'How will a bespoke regulation will impact MGAs?')Does your compensation reflect your true value? - Access the IDEX Salary Calculator to access the latest salary data for your role. Our free tool provides precise industry benchmarks for your role, equipping you with accurate data to confidently negotiate a pay increase or evaluate your current earning potential. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Does your compensation reflect your true value?')The Swedish Club has announced a 5% general increase for Protection & Indemnity (P&I) and Freight, Demurrage & Defence (FD&D) for the 2026/27 policy year, aiming to maintain pricing adequacy and financial resilience amid elevated claim costs, while continuing investments in digital solutions and global reach to support members with long-term sustainability. (Josh Recamara, 21/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Swedish Club sets 5% general increase for 2026/27')The London insurance market, according to the latest insights from the London Market Group (LMG), is driving the global clean energy transition by leveraging its expertise and scale to support innovation, attract capital, and mitigate risks for large energy projects; LMG projects premiums for environmentally focused products to triple in five years, with initiatives including credit and political risk insurance, carbon-delivery insurance, and tailored solutions for renewable energy and carbon capture projects. (Kenneth Araullo, 20/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'London insurance market emerges as key driver in global clean energy shift')OAK Global has received approval from Lloyd’s to begin underwriting through its new Syndicate 1440 starting January 1, 2026, focusing on property and specialty retrocession, supported by diverse long-term investors and led by chief underwriting officer Roland Morse. (Jonalyn Cueto, 20/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'OAK Enterprise cleared to begin underwriting at Lloyd's')The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) urges UK insurance brokers to enhance professionalism, adapt to regulatory reforms, address talent shortages, and leverage tools like its professional map to maintain ethical standards, skills, and trust amidst market changes. (Bryony Garlick, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'A business-critical issue for UK insurance brokers')Tokio Marine reported steady H1 2025 earnings driven by strong domestic performance, reduced catastrophe losses, and rate increases in Japan P&C, while revising its full-year outlook upward for adjusted net income and share buybacks. (Kenneth Araullo, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Tokio Marine reports steady H1 earnings, updates full-year outlook')Markel Insurance has partnered with Greenhouse Specialty Insurance Services to launch a technology-driven environmental insurance program, combining Markel's expertise in environmental casualty insurance with Greenhouse's innovative underwriting platform and selective distribution model to address complex environmental risks and support sustainable growth. (Josh Recamara, 21/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Markel partners with Greenhouse Specialty to launch environmental insurance program')Lumara Insurance has launched in the UK as a new MGA, founded by industry veterans David Aslin and Mark Greig, offering relationship-driven commercial combined and motor trade coverage for SMEs and mid-market firms, with a focus on bespoke underwriting, quick decision-making, and a blend of human expertise and digital efficiency. (Josh Recamara, 21/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Lumara Insurance launches with human-led underwriting approach')MS Amlin reported a lower H1 2025 profit of £47 million, down from £87 million in H1 2024, due to significant losses from California wildfires. Despite this, the company saw improved net premiums written and earned, disciplined underwriting, and effective cost management, maintaining a positive full-year outlook with projected net income of £189 million. (Kenneth Araullo, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'MS Amlin posts lower H1 profit as wildfires drive losses')Ardonagh Advisory has rebranded as Everywhen, uniting over 35 UK broking and insurance advisory businesses, including Towergate and Ethos Broking, under a single identity. The rebrand reflects the group's shift toward an integrated advisory model, enhancing efficiency and access to expertise while maintaining local market responsiveness. (Josh Recamara, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Ardonagh Advisory rebrands as Everywhen')Century Underwriting has signed a long-term capacity partnership with Antares Insurance, effective Dec. 1, enabling the MGA to scale and diversify its commercial motor and specialty portfolio. The deal supports underwriting expansion, product development, and growth, while reinforcing stability and capacity for brokers and policyholders amid market volatility. (Josh Recamara, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Century Underwriting signs long-term capacity deal with Antares')Tokio Marine Kiln (TMK) is evolving its cyber insurance approach, shifting from indemnity-focused policies to proactive cyber resilience partnerships. Through its "Cyber Ctrl" suite, TMK offers daily network scans and real-time alerts, addressing rising threats like supply chain vulnerabilities and AI-enhanced social engineering. Head of cyber Laila Khudairi emphasizes the importance of collaboration to reduce exposures and enhance client defenses. (Bryony Garlick, 18/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Cyber risk enters new era: supply chain threats and AI sharpen the test for cyber insurers')The International Underwriting Association (IUA) predicts that the London Market will face emerging threats in 2026, including cross-class risks like cyber threats, AI, climate change, and intangible assets. Regulatory scrutiny will intensify with new stress tests, climate risk governance, and captive insurance regimes. Despite challenges, the IUA emphasises innovation, cross-class solutions, and technology-driven underwriting as key to market leadership. (Josh Recamara, 18/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'London market faces emerging threats in 2026, IUA predicts')The London Market faces growing competition from the US as advancements in AI, digital infrastructure, and productivity gains position America as a potential global insurance hub. While London retains strengths in expertise and global risk handling, the UK’s slower productivity growth and uneven tech adoption pose challenges. The US benefits from faster innovation, deeper capital markets, and a talent pool driving AI and digital transformation, creating a strategic advantage in the evolving insurance landscape. (Stephen Owens, 17/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Could the US dethrone the London market?')The Association of British Insurers (ABI) reported a record £1.16 billion in fraudulent general insurance claims detected in 2024, a 2% increase from the previous year. Motor insurance scams accounted for £576 million, while property fraud reached £189 million. Insurers also blocked 684,800 fraudulent applications, reflecting rising concerns about sophisticated fraud. Industry efforts, including Aviva and Allianz's fraud prevention initiatives and the Insurance Fraud Bureau's "Connected to Protect" roadmap, aim to combat this growing challenge. (Kenneth Araullo, 17/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance fraud in UK climbs to record £1.16 billion – ABI')HDI Global reported a 6% increase in insurance revenue for the first nine months of 2025, reaching €7.6 billion, driven by new business and inflation-related pricing adjustments. Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) rose 15% to €551 million, with a combined ratio of 91.6%. CEO Dr. Edgar Puls highlighted the company's client-focused approach and technical expertise as key to its strong performance, contributing to parent company Talanx's improved outlook and record earnings. (Kenneth Araullo, 17/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'HDI Global sees revenue, profit rise on new business and pricing gains')MovesPension Insurance Corporation (PIC) has appointed CFO Dom Veney as interim CEO, effective December 31, following Tracy Blackwell's retirement after a decade as CEO; Veney, who joined PIC in 2018 as Chief Actuary and became CFO in 2021, brings nearly 30 years of UK life insurance experience, including leadership at PwC, as the company prepares for its acquisition by Athora Holding in early 2026, pending regulatory approval. (Kenneth Araullo, 20/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'PIC names Dom Veney interim CEO as longtime leader Tracy Blackwell retires')Crawford & Company has bolstered its renewable energy practice with three key appointments: Abid Sayeed, former Offshore Wind Asset Integrity Lead at RWE Renewables UK; Joe Norton Mead, ex-General Manager at Windtechs; and William Entwistle, previously a Renewables and Hydrogen Engineer at SSE. These hires enhance Crawford’s expertise in wind, solar, hydrogen, and battery storage, supporting the global energy transition with advanced risk advisory and loss adjusting services. (Jonalyn Cuteo, 20/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'New specialists join Crawford's renewables line-up')Marsh has appointed James Addington-Smith as CEO of Marsh UK, effective early 2026, succeeding Chris Lay, who is retiring after over 40 years with the firm. Addington-Smith, currently President of Marsh Asia, brings extensive leadership experience, including roles as Marine Leader in Asia and Specialty Leader, and will oversee Marsh UK’s commercial strategy, risk consulting, and specialty broking solutions. (Kenneth Araullo, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Marsh names James Addington-Smith CEO of UK operations')Rokstone has launched a dedicated cyber insurance division, appointing Debbie Hobbs -an experienced leader with two decades in legal, claims, and underwriting roles, including positions at DWF, Clyde & Co, Miller, and Ryan Specialty Group—to lead the unit starting in 2026, focusing on traditional and emerging risks like AI and supply chain vulnerabilities, aligning with the growing global cyber insurance market. (Kenneth Araullo, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Rokstone taps Debbie Hobbs to lead new cyber insurance unit')Kingfisher Insurance has appointed Richard Miller as Head of Private Client and Specialist Motor Trade, leveraging his 20+ years of experience, including leadership roles at Ardonagh Advisory and Clegg Gifford & Co., to enhance specialist product offerings, explore new market opportunities, and uphold high service standards, aligning with the company’s growth ambitions for 2026. (Josh Recamara, 21/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Kingfisher Insurance, Tokio Marine Kiln and the IFB')Tokio Marine Kiln has appointed Adele Beresford as an Underwriter in its life sciences team. Beresford, joining from CNA Hardy with financial lines underwriting experience, will enhance TMK’s capacity to deliver tailored solutions for start-ups and established life sciences companies, addressing the increasing demand for specialist expertise in innovative and high-risk sectors. (Josh Recamara, 21/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Kingfisher Insurance, Tokio Marine Kiln and the IFB')Aviva has appointed Rachel Purchase, currently Director of Data and Analytics at Admiral, as Chief Underwriting Officer for direct line retail. In this newly created role, part of the leadership team for the combined Aviva and Direct Line UK personal lines business, Purchase will oversee pricing and underwriting for the Direct Line, Churchill, and Privilege brands. (Josh Recamara, 21/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Kingfisher Insurance, Tokio Marine Kiln and the IFB')Scott Clayton, Head of Claims Fraud at Zurich, has been appointed Chair of the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB), effective Jan. 1, 2026. Succeeding Karl Helgesen of Intact Insurance, Clayton will lead the delivery of the IFB’s five-year “Connected to Protect” strategy, emphasising enhanced intelligence-sharing, fraud prevention, and industry collaboration. (Josh Recamara, 21/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Kingfisher Insurance, Tokio Marine Kiln and the IFB')Hampden Risk Partners' Syndicate 2689 at Lloyd's has announced leadership changes, appointing Giancarlo D'Alessandro, currently Head of Portfolio Underwriting, as Active Underwriter, and Leah Rose, previously General Counsel and Claims Director, as Syndicate CEO, subject to regulatory approval. These appointments support the syndicate's continued focus on its profitable follow-only strategy, emphasising underwriting discipline and specialist market expertise. (Josh Recamara, 19/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Hampden Risk Partners strengthens leadership')Markel Insurance has launched a construction and engineering practice within its international division, offering Construction All Risks (CAR) and Erection All Risks (EAR) products globally. Led by Anna Woolley, the practice focuses on projects across sectors like retail, healthcare, and energy, with coverage limits up to $50 million. The team includes Keely Madden as Head of EAR and Simon Marshall as an Engineer, emphasising innovation and risk management in a competitive market. (Kenneth Araullo, 18/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Markel launches construction & engineering practice')Augmented UW Ltd., a tech-powered MGA specialising in the smart-follow insurance sector, has appointed Luke Overall as Head of Underwriting. With over 15 years of experience at Atrium, Beazley, and CFC, Overall brings expertise in property, terrorism, cyber, and liability, focusing on binder-driven portfolios and strategic partnerships. He will lead Augmented’s underwriting team, driving its technology-enhanced strategy and supporting brokers in creating data-led panels that align capacity with risk. (Josh Recamara, 18/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Augmented, Send')Send Technology Solutions has appointed Daniel Pass as Chief Technology Officer to advance the functionality and scalability of its insurance platform. Pass brings extensive experience from his previous role as CTO at challenger bank Perenna and senior technical positions at Betfred, where he specialised in large-scale systems architecture and platform development. (Josh Recamara, 18/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Augmented, Send')John Neal, former Lloyd's of London Chief, has withdrawn from his role as AIG's incoming President just two weeks before his scheduled start, citing personal circumstances. Neal's departure disrupts AIG's leadership transition and transformation plans under CEO Peter Zaffino, leaving a critical gap in its global general insurance operations. (Josh Recamara, 17/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'AIG's incoming president John Neal withdraws')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Insurance Business and IDEX Consulting.

IDEX achieves 'Confident' Inclusive Employer Certification, supporting employers to hire diverse talent

IDEX Consulting achieves 'Confident' Inclusive Employer Certification, enabling employers to strengthen their diverse hiring strategies IDEX Consulting has been recognised as a 'Confident' inclusive employer by Talent Spaces, a leading talent solutions consultancy dedicated to creating equitable hiring practices.The certification acknowledges IDEX’s commitment to supporting businesses across professional services with fair and equitable hiring practices, regardless of an individual’s background or identity.The accreditation, based on a rigorous framework drawn from 50+ academic studies and guidance from over ten industry bodies, evaluates organisations across three levels: Committed, Confident, and Leader. IDEX achieved Confident status across four key areas: talent attraction, candidate screening and shortlisting, policy and governance, and accessibility.Notably, IDEX's client collaboration and candidate experience scores exceeded 'Leader' level benchmarks, demonstrating industry-leading practice in these critical areas."Our core ethos at IDEX is enabling people to achieve their life goals, and our focus on inclusive hiring is critical to that. We care about ensuring people are provided with fair and equal opportunities, and we can only do that by equipping employers with inclusive hiring practices, enabling them to attract a wider pool of talent. This isn’t just good practice, it’s helping to build communities where everyone belongs”, says Matt Green, CEO of IDEX. The comprehensive evaluation analysed IDEX's external and internal approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including surveys, documents, and policies. The assessment confirmed that IDEX has embedded data-informed strategies across consultant delivery, candidate experience, and client engagement.IDEX is now working towards achieving 'Leader' status to become an inclusive hiring leader in the industry.For more information, go to: www.idexconsulting.comAbout IDEX Consulting  IDEX Consulting is an independent and innovative global talent, business and M&A growth consultancy. The business helps clients achieve their growth goals through M&A buy and sell side strategies, the acquisition of top tier talent, and marketing advisory across the UK, Europe, Middle East and US. Over the past few years IDEX M&A has introduced clients to over £1 billion GWP of opportunity and added over £500 million of enterprise value to firms.For more information contact Richard Martin, Director of Corporate Services on 07791 871 122 or richard.martin@idexconsulting.com

General Insurance newsletter Friday 14th November 2025

Insurance NewsGet early access: IDEX 2026 Insurance Salary Guide and Market Sentiment report - Stay ahead in 2026. Gain exclusive access to the latest insurance salary benchmarks and market sentiment insights. Our comprehensive report helps you make informed hiring decisions and stay competitive. Complete our quick 1-minute survey now to receive the IDEX 2026 Salary Guide as soon as it's released. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Get early access: IDEX 2026 Insurance Salary Guide and Market Sentiment report')Streamline your interviews to win top talent - In today's competitive market, businesses are losing top candidates to competitors due to slow, inefficient, and unnecessarily complex interview processes. Our guide offers practical tips to help you streamline your hiring strategy, secure in-demand talent, and avoid missing out on the best people for the job. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Streamline your interviews to win top talent')Plan your next career step for 2026 - As 2026 approaches, now is the perfect time to get ahead of the January rush and start planning your next career move. Share your professional goals and what you value in an employer by completing our brief survey. You’ll be entered for a chance to win a £250 voucher as a thank you for your insights. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Plan your next career step for 2026')Attract top Risk & Compliance talent now - In the competitive market for Risk and Compliance professionals, candidates will no longer accept a poor interview experience. Our specialist recruiter, Jack Johnson, shares essential insights on what today’s top talent expects and how you can refine your process to attract and secure the very best. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Attract top risk & compliance talent now')WTW’s latest Energy Market Review signals a softening energy insurance market in 2026, giving buyers greater leverage to negotiate lower premiums and broader coverage. Well-managed risks with clean loss histories are seeing the most favourable terms, while downstream accounts with US exposure face tighter scrutiny after significant losses. Overall, ample capacity and insurer appetite for growth are simplifying placements and improving outcomes for disciplined buyers. (Josh Recamara, 14/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Energy insurance market softening in 2026 gives buyers leverage on premiums and coverage')Amiga Specialty has secured multi-year, multi-product capacity via Accelerant’s Risk Exchange just six months post-launch, providing long-term backing for D&O, PI, FI, and transactional risks. The data-enabled platform, with access to A-rated carriers across 22 countries, supports scalable global growth and more competitive specialty underwriting. (Josh Recamara, 14/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Amiga Specialty secures multi-year capacity')CFC Underwriting has joined the Association of British Insurers, adding deep cyber and emerging-risk expertise to the trade body. With 25+ years in cyber, proprietary tech for real-time threat intelligence, and coverage for 200,000+ businesses in 90 countries, CFC’s membership strengthens industry collaboration on growing digital exposures while extending its influence across specialist lines beyond cyber. (Josh Recamara, 14/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'CFC Underwriting joins ABI')The Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters (CILA) is overhauling governance and membership - shifting to a modern board with independent oversight, updating its Royal Charter and name, and introducing individual and corporate pathways - while redefining loss adjusting as the assessment, investigation, management, quantification, validation, and resolution of claims, and emphasizing tech-enabled yet human-led professionalism to meet AI, climate, talent, and regulatory demands. (Bryony Garlick, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Loss adjusting redefined: CILA sets new course for claims professionalism in the UK')Aegon posted steady Q3 2025 growth with €340m OCG, €1.9bn cash at holding, robust capital ratios, stronger US performance, expanded €400m buyback (54% complete), and reaffirmed 2025 targets despite UK platform outflows, signalling a strengthened capital position and continued turnaround momentum. (Kenneth Araullo, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Aegon delivers steady Q3 growth, strengthens capital position')Volt Underwriting has launched a TMK-led ports & terminals line with an initial US$15m capacity, underwriting global property and liability risks under Chris Haines to complement its energy-focused portfolio and add scale and balance for carriers. (Kenneth Araullo, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Volt Underwriting enters ports & terminals market with TMK-backed line')Generali reported double-digit growth for the first nine months of 2025, with €73.1bn GWP, P&C operating result up 23.9% (combined ratio 94.2%), life net inflows up 54.9% to €10.4bn, adjusted net result up 14% to €3.28bn, and Solvency II ratio rising to 214%, supported by benign nat-cat and broad segment strength. (Kenneth Araullo, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Generali posts double-digit profit growth in first nine months of 2025')Talanx reported record nine-month 2025 net income of €1.96bn, raised its full-year outlook to over €2.4bn, and now targets €2.7bn in 2026 (a year early), driven by strong primary and reinsurance performance, below-budget large losses, an 89.8% combined ratio, 21.5% ROE, and a 233% Solvency II ratio. (Kenneth Araullo, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Talanx lifts 2025 outlook once again after record earnings surge in Q3')Aviva delivered strong Q3 growth and now expects to hit its 2026 financial targets in 2025, with Direct Line integration well underway driving expected £225m cost synergies and at least £500m capital synergies; GI premiums rose 12% to £10bn, undiscounted COR improved to 94.4% (90.4% discounted), Solvency II cover ratio is 177%, and the group plans to resume larger buybacks next year. (Paul Lucas, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Aviva reports strong growth as it closes in on financial targets')Chubb introduced an AI-powered optimisation engine within Chubb Studio to personalise embedded insurance at the point of sale, enabling partners to boost engagement and conversion through data-driven insights, click-to-engage tech, and direct marketing—aimed at tailoring protection to customer needs in real time. (Kenneth Araullo, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Chubb launches AI optimisation engine for embedded insurance')Pollen Street Capital is reportedly preparing a London IPO for Markerstudy that could value the UK insurer at over £4bn; Markerstudy serves about 6m customers with 6,500+ staff, reported 2024 revenue of £694m and a £141.7m loss, and expanded via the Atlanta Insurance acquisition—amid a UK sector shift toward smaller M&A deals and efforts to streamline IPO timelines. (Kenneth Araullo, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Markerstudy reportedly preparing for London IPO amid sector shake-up')The UK will phase in sanctions through 2026 to bar British insurers and maritime firms from underwriting or servicing shipments of Russian LNG, tightening existing energy restrictions; with London covering roughly 90% of global marine insurance, the move adds compliance pressure for underwriters and brokers and could significantly disrupt Russia’s LNG export logistics. (Matthew Sellers, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'UK to block insurers from underwriting Russian LNG shipping')The ABI endorsed the UK’s new Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, calling it vital for safeguarding essential services and supply chains; with cyber claims up 230% year-over-year and nearly £200m paid last year, insurers expect rising demand for cover and risk services as medium and large IT/cyber providers come under regulation and stricter incident reporting and penalties are introduced. (Josh Recamara, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'ABI backs UK Cyber Security Bill as insurers brace for rising demand')Travelers Europe has joined BIBA as a partner, deepening collaboration with the UK broker community; the move supports closer work with regional brokers and aligns with BIBA’s recent partnerships (e.g., Markel, MGAA, Griffiths & Armour) to expand resources and strengthen distribution and customer outcomes. (Josh Recamara, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Travelers Europe joins BIBA as partner')BIBA welcomed the UK Government’s Financial Inclusion Strategy and its “total signposting” initiative, which will apply across all retail insurance classes to direct underserved or non-standard customers to suitable providers; BIBA and ABI will develop the voluntary framework, building on existing signposting for age, flood, medical, and protection, aligning with Consumer Duty and widening market access. (Josh Recamara, 12/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'BIBA backs Government's new financial inclusion strategy')Aon launched “Claims Copilot,” an AI platform integrating Broker Copilot and risk analysers to speed resolutions, benchmark carrier performance, and give clients real-time visibility; rolling out in Germany in Nov 2025 before global deployment through 2027, supporting 1,800 claims professionals across 50+ countries and 20+ product lines. (Jonalyn Cueto, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Aon unveils AI claims platform')Hadron will launch in the EU in early 2026 after growth in the UK and US; backed by $250m+ in committed capital, 75+ staff, and 50 programs, it projects £200m+ UK GWP in 2025, has added 10 MGAs, and is bolstering leadership and governance to scale its delegated authority platform across Europe. (Kenneth Araullo, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Hadron to expand global footprint with planned EU launch')Clear Group signed the UK Armed Forces Covenant, formalising support for serving personnel, reservists, veterans and families; with several ex-military employees, the broker underscores inclusive employment and culture while continuing international expansion and recent integrations in Ireland. (Kenneth Araullo, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Clear Group signs UK Armed Forces Covenant, pledges support for military community')According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI) data, UK cyber insurance payouts hit £197m in 2024, up 230% year-on-year; malware and ransomware drove 51% of claims as policy uptake rose 17%, with the ABI urging firms to treat cyber cover as core to risk management amid increasingly targeted attacks. (Jonalyn Cueto, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Cyber insurance claims surge 230% in the UK')Gallagher’s 2025 Pre-Renewal Review flags renewed claims pressure in the P&I market: incurred claims up 21% to $3.73bn, combined ratio around 110% (pure P&I around 120%), underwriting loss $353m offset by 5% investment returns and record $5.94bn free reserves; expects 2026 general increases around 5–7.5% with reinsurance costs and large pool losses as key wildcards. (Paul Lucas, 10/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'P&I market faces renewed claims pressure - report')Hiscox’s first Global Protection Gap Report finds 74% of SMEs underinsured; 55% missing essential covers, widespread confusion over public liability, cyber, and professional indemnity, and a third not reviewing policies in three years. Insurers respond with measures like extended BI indemnity periods to address gaps. (Rod Bolivar, 10/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Hiscox finds 74% of SMEs underinsured')MovesGallagher reorganised its UK Retail division post-AssuredPartners deal, creating two units: a Commercial Division for mid-market clients led by Gary Fletcher (previously head of Gallagher Retail in the South) and a Corporate Division for larger, complex risks led by Simon Waine (joined Gallagher in 2010). The restructure follows the addition of 1,000 employees and aims to sharpen client service and operational efficiency. (Josh Recamara, 13/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Gallagher reshapes UK retail operations following AssuredPartners acquisition')Zurich UK appointed Georgina Fleet as Head of UK Compliance and to the UK executive committee, succeeding Hilary Bates (moving to Cover-More as global operations and transformation leader); Fleet joined Zurich in 2020 as head of legal transactions, after leading Legal & General’s legal team and serving as a senior associate at Pinsent Masons.(Josh Recamara, 12/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Zurich UK appoints head of compliance')Willis (a WTW business) appointed Louie Clarke as Global Head of Claims Strategy and Execution within Risk & Broking, reporting to Global Head of Claims Neil Harrison; Clarke, based in London, joins from Aon where he held claims leadership roles, and will shape Willis’ global claims services and solutions. (Jonayln Cueto, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Willis names global claims lead')Prestige Underwriting promoted Carl McComb to Underwriting and Pricing Director, reporting to the MD to lead UK/IE underwriting strategy, integrate pricing and analytics, set risk/pricing guidelines, oversee models and rating frameworks, and partner with ops, claims, and distribution to improve broker outcomes. (Kenneth Araullo, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Prestige Underwriting, New Dawn Risk, HHIB')New Dawn Risk appointed George Brooke as Senior Broker in Management Liability & Financial Institutions, reporting to Jack Keilty; he joins from Price Forbes (Director, Management Liability) and previously Marsh JLT Specialty (AVP, FINPRO), bringing multi-region experience to help grow the global ML&FI portfolio, following the hire of Anthony Kerr as Senior Client Manager and Claims Advocate. (Kenneth Araullo, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Prestige Underwriting, New Dawn Risk, HHIB')H&H Insurance Brokers promoted Natalie Carr to Associate Director; with nearly 30 years’ experience, she leads the Wigton office, specialises in agriculture/forestry/tree surgery, manages farm clients across North and West Cumbria, and splits time between the Wigton office (Tue/Thu) and on-farm visits. (Kenneth Araullo, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Prestige Underwriting, New Dawn Risk, HHIB')Sedgwick named Paul White as CEO, International, effective Jan 1, 2026, succeeding retiring executive Tom Simoncic after 18 years; White currently oversees international regions as Regional CEO and has held multiple leadership roles across Sedgwick and Cunningham Lindsey. (Rod Bolivar, 11/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Sedgwick names Paul White International CEO')Convex UK CEO Theo Butt has been elected Chair of the International Underwriting Association, effective January 1, 2026, succeeding SCOR’s Claire McDonald, with the IUA emphasising digital transformation, operational efficiency, and market-wide initiatives under his leadership. (Paul Lucas, 10/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Convex's Theo Butt elected chair of the IUA')Willis, part of WTW, expanded its GB direct and facultative team with three senior hires: Fiona Kerr joins from Aon as Head of UK Property with 20 years’ market experience in property placement and portfolio growth; David Watson is promoted internally to lead North America and retro after previous work on global property placements, placement and retention, and reinsurer relationships; James Kelly joins as Casualty Producer with 40 years’ experience across JLT, Lockton, and Gallagher, spanning casualty production, portfolio development, and talent mentoring - collectively strengthening property and casualty facultative capabilities and new business development. (Paul Lucas, 10/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Willis expands GB facultative line-up')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Insurance Business and IDEX Consulting.

General Insurance newsletter Friday 7th November 2025

Insurance NewsRegister for the IDEX 2026 Insurance Salary Guide and Market Sentiment report - Are you an employer and keen to access the latest salary benchmark data for professions across the insurance sector? Register for access to receive our exclusive report as soon as it's ready. All you have to do is complete our 1 minute survey to get the latest data and insights. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Register for the IDEX 2026 Insurance Salary Guide and Market Sentiment report')Insurance business valuation calculator - Are you planning your 2026 business strategy, but are perhaps lacking credible data and insights on your business performance? Our free business calculator for brokers, insurers and MGAs provides an instant valuation, based on your company's profile, revenue and profit, offering you the essential data you need to make key business decisions. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Insurance business valuation calculator')Planning to change jobs in 2026? - With 2026 fast approaching, now is an ideal time to evaluate your career goals and accelerate your job hunt, before the January rush. We'd love to know what your career plans are for next year and what you're looking for from for a future employer. Tell us in our survey for the chance to win a £250 voucher. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Planning to change jobs in 2026?')Unlocking AI's potential in insurance: Insights from experts - Getting started with AI doesn't have to be overwhelming. IDEX reveals the proven strategies successful insurers are using, from conducting business reviews to bringing teams along the journey. Discover the practical first steps that separate AI leaders from laggards. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Unlocking AI's potential in insurance: Insights from experts')Liberty Mutual’s Q3 2025 net income jumped to $2.22B as the combined ratio improved to 84.7% on sharply lower catastrophe losses and stronger investment income, despite an 8.2% drop in net written premiums, highlighting a profitability-over-growth strategy. (Josh Recamara, 7/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Liberty Mutual posts strong Q3 results')AXA has launched two global initiatives that extend its impact beyond insurance: Unlock Education, a three-year partnership with Ashoka to support 30 social entrepreneurs reimagining education for social cohesion, and AXA Safe Spaces, a free, 12-language workplace training program to help employers identify and support victims of domestic and sexual violence - signalling a deeper commitment to social well-being and resilience. (Josh Recamara, 7/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'AXA launches global initiatives to tackle domestic violence and reinvent education')Zurich Insurance delivered strong Q3 growth, with P&C GWP up 8% to $38.9B, powered by a 16% retail surge, specialty strength (construction rates +5%, combined ratio <85%), and Middle Market gains (Europe +11%, US +7%), supported by lower nat-cat losses, disciplined underwriting, and expansion across EMEA and Farmers. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Zurich Insurance grows premiums in Q3 as specialty, retail segments shine')Hiscox reported broad Q3 growth, with ICWP up 5.9% to $4.05B driven by a 6.1% rise in Retail (double-digit new business), strong UK performance (+8% ICWP) aided by marketing and new distribution, and continued gains in Europe (+7.1%), while London Market and Re & ILS grew modestly amid softer rates; investment returns strengthened and the firm continued share buybacks. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Hiscox highlights major retail expansion in Q3 results')Intact Financial posted a strong Q3 with operating DPW up 6% to CA$6.6B and a sharply improved 89.8% combined ratio, driven by strong Canadian and US underwriting and investment income, while UK & Ireland DPW fell 5% due to portfolio remediation and exits; net operating EPS hit CA$4.46 and operating ROE rose to 19.6%, with a CA$1.33 dividend declared. (Josh Recamara, 6/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Intact Financial reports strong Q3 results despite UK slump')AXA Founder and honorary Chairman Claude Bébéar has died at 90; credited with transforming AXA into a global leader through major M&A and expansion, he shaped the firm’s culture and social responsibility agenda, led until 2000 (later chairing the supervisory board), and is being honoured by AXA leaders; a private funeral is planned. (Paul Lucas, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Claude Bébéar, AXA founder, dies at 90')Lancashire Holdings reported nine‑month GWP up 7.4% to $1.8B and insurance revenue up 7.8% to $1.4B, aided by a 5.6% YTD investment return and the minority buy‑out of Syndicate 2010; the board approved a $0.75 special dividend (~$182M) as the group maintained disciplined underwriting despite wildfire losses and a 96% renewal price index. (Kenneth Araullo, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Lancashire grows premiums, approves special dividend after strong third quarter')International General Insurance's (IGI) nine-month net income fell to $94.9M (from $105.1M) on FX and lower net premiums earned, while Q3 core operating income rose to $38.6M (22.9% core ROAE); GWP was flat at $525.6M, Q3 loss ratio improved to 39.3%, but nine-month combined ratio increased to 87.1% due to cat losses and FX. (Kenneth Araullo, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'IGI sees mixed nine-month results amid currency headwinds')AIG’s Q3 saw net income per diluted share up 31% to $0.93 and AATI per share up 77% to $2.20, with GI underwriting income up 81% and the combined ratio improving to 86.8%; AIG returned $1.5B to shareholders and announced deals to invest in Convex and Onex and acquire Everest renewal rights, expected to be accretive. (Kenneth Araullo, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'AIG Q3 2025 net income surges as latest deals boost outlook')Clear Group has integrated Phelan Caswell Insurances into Clear Insurance Ireland following its 2024 acquisition (including financial planning assets); MD Mark Phelan and an 18-strong team join to expand commercial lines reach across Ireland, strengthening Clear’s scale and M&A-led growth strategy. (Josh Recamara, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Clear Group integrates Phelan Caswell Insurances')UK MGAs face a more competitive cycle as brokers narrow panels and demand specialism, speed and clear authority; Pen Underwriting highlights that differentiation now hinges on genuine expertise and flawless execution, with regional access and empowered underwriters key, while tech serves as an enabler, not a replacement, amid softening rates and rising claims pressures requiring tighter MGA - broker - capacity collaboration. (Gia Snape, 4/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'MGA sector enters new phase as competition, broker expectations intensify')Insurance buyers are securing double-digit rate cuts and ample capacity across property, cyber and D&O globally, though motor remains an outlier with rising rates; Aon’s Q3 2025 insights flag fragmented “micro-markets,” softening as a pricing correction, and rising systemic risks—urging clients to reinvest savings into coverage, limits and resilience while maintaining strong insurer partnerships. (Paul Lucas, 4/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance buyers see double-digit rate cuts')Crawford & Company reported a 31% year-over-year rise in Q3 net income to US$12.4m at US$0.25 per diluted share despite a 2% revenue dip to US$322.2m, driven by operational efficiencies; record quarters for Broadspire at US$103.4m and International Operations at US$112.9m offset softer North America activity amid fewer major weather events, with margins improving across key units. (Jonalyn Cueto, 4/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Crawford sees higher earnings in Q3')CNA Financial posted record Q3 core income of $409m and net income of $403m or $1.48 per share, driven by lower cat losses, stronger underwriting and higher investment income; P&C core income rose to $456m with an improved all-in combined ratio of 92.8 and expense ratio of 29.1, as CNA invests in talent, AI and expands its Cardinal E&S platform. CEO Douglas Worman will also become board chair from Jan 1, 2026. (Josh Recamara, 4/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'CNA Financial reports record core income in Q3')Acies MGU launched Subscribe MGA, a Lloyd’s-backed agency focused on PI, management liability and D&O for SMEs and mid-corporates, led by Rob McKay with a data-driven, tech-forward model; the move expands Acies’s financial lines footprint across London market and select international risks, complementing its regional growth strategy and specialist MGA portfolio. (Josh Recamara, 4/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Acies MGU launches new MGA to expand financial lines offering')The International Union of Marine Insurance IUMI’s 2025 Stats Report shows stability in hull and cargo lines, with ocean hull premiums up 3.5% to US$9.67b and cargo up 1.6% to US$22.64b, while offshore energy fell 7.9% to US$4.34b; data tools like the Major Claims Database and Hull Inflation Index highlight rising macro risks including geopolitics, climate and aging fleets into 2025. (Josh Recamara, 4/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'IUMI report: Hull and cargo insurance maintain stability as offshore energy declines')Aon’s Q3 revenue rose 7% to $3.997b with 7% organic growth and a 31% jump in operating income to $816m; Risk Capital and Human Capital both advanced, with strong Commercial Risk, Reinsurance, Health and Wealth performance, expanding adjusted margin to 26.3% and boosting free cash flow 13%. (Jonalyn Cueto, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Aon reports 10% revenue growth in third quarter')Berkshire Hathaway’s Q3 operating earnings rose, supported by insurance and steady rail, energy and manufacturing results; cash hit a record $381.7b, float reached ~$176b, and the firm sold $6.1b in shares while trimming its Bank of America stake and agreeing to buy OxyChem for $9.7b as Warren Buffett prepares to hand CEO duties to Greg Abel. (Rod Bolivar, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Berkshire operating income climbs as Buffett heads towards exit')The Fidelis Partnership, with Blackstone funds, launched Lloyd’s Syndicate 2126 to write property, specialty and bespoke lines (including via Pine Walk) with c.US$300m 2026 capacity; alongside Syndicate 3123, TFP targets >US$1.3b GWP next year, with Peter Welton as active underwriter (pending approval) and capital deployed via London Bridge 2.(Josh Recamara, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Fidelis and Blackstone expand Lloyd's footprint with new syndicate')FERMA’s new ESG-Toolbox for Captives outlines how captives can embed sustainability into underwriting, investment and governance: integrating climate KPIs, supporting transition risks, innovating benefits and supply-chain incentives, and formalising strong governance—positioning captives as strategic levers for measurable ESG outcomes amid CSRD-driven disclosure pressures. (Josh Recamara, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Captives positioned to drive ESG integration, FERMA says')Mergers and AcquisitionsLincoln International completed its acquisition of MarshBerry, expanding its insurance and wealth advisory capabilities across the US and Europe; the combined platform integrates MarshBerry’s consulting, valuation and benchmarking with Lincoln’s investment banking, targeting middle-market M&A and private capital, CEOs Rob Brown and John Wepler said. (Josh Recamara, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Lincoln International completes acquisition of MarshBerry')MovesPen Underwriting named Michael Doyle CEO of its Irish operations; the 25-year market veteran from Ivernia, Zurich, and Wrightway will lead expansion and product broadening as Wrightway transitions to Pen Underwriting Ireland. (Josh Recamara, 7/11/2025/ Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen Underwriting, Allianz Trade, BHSI and Antares')Allianz Trade promoted William Whittington to Global Head of Specialty Credit and Mid Term, succeeding Christophe White; based in London, Whittington brings Lloyd’s roots and multinational experience since joining in 2016 (Singapore, Paris, New York) and now assumes global responsibility for the division. (Josh Recamara, 7/11/2025/ Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen Underwriting, Allianz Trade, BHSI and Antares')Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) promoted Frederic de Blieck to Country Manager, Belgium, expanding his role beyond Head of Executive & Professional Lines; he joined in 2022 and brings nearly two decades of financial lines experience. (Josh Recamara, 7/11/2025/ Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen Underwriting, Allianz Trade, BHSI and Antares')Antares Global promoted Andy Bridgwood and Chris Early to joint Class Cargo Underwriters to lead its cargo book under Head of Marine James Glynn; Bridgwood (joined 2022) brings 15 years’ cargo experience from Tokio Marine Europe and Generali, while Early (joined Mar 2025) brings a decade from Starstone, AIG and Apollo. (Josh Recamara, 7/11/2025/ Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Pen Underwriting, Allianz Trade, BHSI and Antares')AXA XL named Sabrina Lahrmann Head of International Property, UK & Lloyd’s, effective Nov. 1, to lead underwriting strategy for the international property retail business from London; Lahrmann brings 20+ years’ experience, previously serving as Underwriting Manager for this division and holding senior roles at AXA UK and Allianz. AXA XL also announced that David Jones will join as Chief Underwriting Officer of Retail, UK & Lloyd’s in spring 2026; Jones comes from QBE as Director of Underwriting for property and packaged business, with prior leadership roles at Aviva and Mitsui Sumitomo. (Josh Recamara, 6/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: AXA XL, Reassured and NSM UK')Reassured appointed Laura Mullaney as Chief Growth Officer effective October, tasking her with operational transformation across digital scripting, customer engagement, and partner network expansion; bringing 20+ years’ experience, she previously served as Transformation Director at Hastings Direct and Managing Director of distribution at BGL Insurance, supporting the firm’s push toward digital enablement and customer-centric operations. (Josh Recamara, 6/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: AXA XL, Reassured and NSM UK')NSM UK appointed Neil Thomsett as Operations Director for Kingfisher Insurance and Kingsbridge, overseeing tech and operations integration to boost broking efficiency and client service; bringing senior experience from Adler Fairways and UKGI Group in process improvement and M&A, Thomsett’s hire supports CEO Paul Havenhand’s growth plans across niche personal and commercial lines, including motor trade, classic vehicle, motorsport, and specialist contractor coverage. (Josh Recamara, 6/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: AXA XL, Reassured and NSM UK')BIBA named One Call Insurance Director Sarah Chadburn as Chair of its Regional Chairs’ Advisory Board and a member of the main board; she succeeds John Batty of Bridge Insurance Brokers, who moves to BIBA’s Insurance Brokers’ Standards Committee. With 20+ years’ broking experience, Chadburn will represent brokers across 11 regions, reinforcing BIBA’s focus on local issues shaping national advocacy. (Josh Recamara, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: BIBA, Westfield, Arch, Arc Legal, Bridge Specialty, BPL and MAXIS GBN')Westfield Specialty International named Anthony Baldwin President, Specialty International (subject to regulatory approval), based in London and reporting to Global President Jack Kuhn; the former AIG UK and Europe CEO brings 30 years’ experience to lead non-US operations as Westfield Specialty’s GWP hits $1.4B for the first nine months of 2025. (Josh Recamara, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: BIBA, Westfield, Arch, Arc Legal, Bridge Specialty, BPL and MAXIS GBN')Arch Insurance UK appointed Chris Walker -joining from Aviva, where he held underwriting roles - as Senior Property & Casualty Underwriter in Bristol to expand P&C portfolios and deepen broker relationships across the West, Southwest and Wales, reinforcing its regional growth strategy and investment in experienced underwriting talent. (Josh Recamara, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: BIBA, Westfield, Arch, Arc Legal, Bridge Specialty, BPL and MAXIS GBN')Arc Legal Group (AmTrust International) appointed John Walsh as Commercial Director to drive growth and deepen partner relationships; with 20+ years’ experience at RSA, Swinton, and British Engineering Services, he’ll support the company’s expansion across legal expenses and assistance lines, with strong growth expected into 2026. (Josh Recamara, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: BIBA, Westfield, Arch, Arc Legal, Bridge Specialty, BPL and MAXIS GBN')Bridge Specialty International appointed a new transactional liability leadership team - Charles Russell as Managing Director, with Hollie Markham and Jack O’Flaherty as Executive Directors- all ex-Gallagher - to build out W&I and tax insurance capabilities, advancing BSI’s strategy to scale in high-growth specialty lines. (Josh Recamara, 5/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: BIBA, Westfield, Arch, Arc Legal, Bridge Specialty, BPL and MAXIS GBN')Aegon named David Herzog as Chairman effective November 13, 2025, succeeding William Connelly, who retires the same day. The company will also propose Leni Boeren for board membership at the 2026 AGM; Boeren is the former CEO of Kempen Capital Management and Robeco Groep and has extensive non-executive experience. Connelly endorsed Boeren’s appointment, and Herzog noted his intent to work closely with the board and CEO Lard Friese. (Rod Bolivar, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aegon, Iprism, Broadstone, Fiducia, Gallagher, Fidelis')Iprism appointed Adrian Saunders as Non-Executive Chairman, following his April 2024 board entry; the former senior leader at Ecclesiastical, Marsh, Zurich and Hiscox will support governance and strategic oversight, a move CEO Ian Lloyd says reflects the firm’s growing maturity as a management-owned business. (Rod Bolivar, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aegon, Iprism, Broadstone, Fiducia, Gallagher, Fidelis')Fiducia appointed Graeme McFarlane as Development Underwriter for Scotland and the northeast of England; bringing 30-plus years of marine insurance experience from Santander, he will bolster broker support with expert underwriting and tailored coverage, CEO Gerry Sheehy said. (Rod Bolivar, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aegon, Iprism, Broadstone, Fiducia, Gallagher, Fidelis')Gallagher appointed David Rush as Independent Non-Executive Director of Arthur J Gallagher Holdings (UK) Ltd; the former Deloitte Partner will chair the audit committee subject to regulatory approval, bringing nearly 40 years’ financial services experience as the firm integrates AssuredPartners and continues UK growth, CEO Michael Rea said. (Rod Bolivar, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aegon, Iprism, Broadstone, Fiducia, Gallagher, Fidelis')Fidelis Insurance Holdings appointed William Waddell-Dudley as UK Chief Underwriting Officer; formerly Lead Underwriter for specialty reinsurance at IQUW with senior roles at AmTrust, Talbot, AIG and Hiscox, he will help strengthen and expand London underwriting operations, said group CUO Ian Houston. (Rod Bolivar, 3/11/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aegon, Iprism, Broadstone, Fiducia, Gallagher, Fidelis')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Insurance Business and IDEX Consulting.

Financial Services newsletter Friday 31st October 2025

Financial Services NewsSt James’s Place FUM surpassed £200bn for the first time, reaching £212.39bn (+12% YTD), with Q3 net inflows of £1.8bn (vs £890m in Q3 2024) and YTD retention at 95.2% (up from 94.6%); CEO Mark FitzPatrick cited strong demand and pre-implementation activity ahead of the new charging structure, as the firm moves to scrap most exit charges. (Financial Planning Today, 23/10/2025, 'SJP FUM climbs 12% to top £200bn for first time')Aberdeen’s advice arm saw £0.5bn net outflows in Q3 to 30 Sept, a 50% YoY improvement (Q3 2024: £1bn), with YTD adviser outflows at £1.4bn (vs £3bn last year). Adviser AUMA stood at £79bn (+£3bn QoQ). Interactive Investor delivered £1.9bn net inflows (Q3 2024: £1.2bn), while the investment arm had £1.8bn net outflows, 49% better YoY (Q3 2024: £3.5bn). Group AUMA/A rose 6% YTD to £542.4bn, and CEO Jason Windsor said adviser flows are on track to turn positive in 2026. (Financial Planning Today, 23/10/2025, 'Outflows continue for Aberdeen Adviser')Quilter’s core net inflows rose 28% YoY to £2.2bn in Q3, lifting group AUMA/A 7% to £134.8bn, aided by £6.4bn of market tailwinds; YTD core net inflows reached £6.7bn, driven by strong platform demand, with platform net inflows over £2bn in the quarter (vs £1.4bn in Q3 2024), gross and net platform inflows up 19% and 15% YoY, IFA channel gross flows up 35% to £1.3bn, and the high net worth segment delivering £758m gross and £239m net inflows. (Financial Planning Today, 22/10/2025, 'Platform drives 48% rise in net inflows for Quilter')The FCA has updated its cyber disruption guidance for regulated firms, adding clearer expectations for response, recovery, and third‑party outages after recent AWS and 2024 CrowdStrike incidents. It also reminded firms that operational resilience rules have applied since 31 March. (Financial Planning Today, 22/10/2025, 'FCA urges firms to boost resilience after cyber attacks')State Pension is set to rise by 4.8% in April under the Triple Lock, which uses September data, outpacing September CPI at 3.8%. ONS held CPI at 3.8% (vs 4% forecast), with food and soft drink inflation easing to 4.5% from 5.1%. Barring intervention from Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the 4.8% uplift will proceed. (Financial Planning Today, 22/10/2025, 'State Pension set to rise 4.8% as CPI remains high')DB transfer values are down 6% since the start of 2025, with a modest uptick in September; the quarterly average is ~3% below end-June per XPS’s Transfer Value Index. Values have been relatively stable, with month-end figures within a £5,000 band over six months. Transfer activity ticked up in September to an annualised 18 per 1,000 members, though volatility has increased in recent months. (Financial Planning Today, 20/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Pension transfer values fall 6% in 2025')Former Aviva CEO David Barral, 63, died after his Aston Martin DBX crashed into a tree on the A58 near Wetherby. Police are investigating and seeking witnesses. His family expressed devastation. Barral, a prominent financial services figure, spent over 15 years at Aviva (1999–2015) in senior roles including CEO, COO, marketing and distribution director. (Financial Planning Today, 16/10/2025, 'Former Aviva CEO David Barral dies in car crash')Brooks Macdonald posted £49m net outflows in the quarter to 30 Sept (vs £3m prior quarter; £111m YoY). BPS outflows were £157m (11% YoY improvement), while platform MPS net inflows hit £175m (12% annualised). FUMA rose 3% to £19.7bn (FUM £17.3bn); advised-only assets slipped to £2.42bn. (Financial Planning Today, 15/10/2025, 'Net outflows rise in latest quarter at Brooks Macdonald')L&G will launch an AI-powered customer service platform for workplace savings, retail protection, and annuities, built on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Contact Centre. It will analyse conversations for next-best actions, tools, and sentiment to flag vulnerabilities, aiming to speed responses and personalise support for advisers and customers, with more product lines coming under a multi-year plan. (Financial Planning Today, 15/10/2025, 'L&G to add AI-powered customer service platform')Fairstone increased revenue/pro forma income 21% to £168m and assets to £20bn (FY2024), sets goal to reach £40bn by 2030; now serving 125k+ clients across 56+ locations with 12 regional hubs in the UK and Ireland. (Financial Planning Today, 14/10/2025, 'Fairstone revenue leaps 21% as client assets hit £20bn')AJ Bell Investcentre launched an integration with Dynamic Planner to enable bulk client valuations from AJ Bell into Dynamic Planner, including compatibility with its mobile app, Tram, to save admin time. AJ Bell says this streamlines manual tasks “at the touch of a button,” enhancing its advised proposition. (Financial Planning Today, 14/10/2025, 'AJ Bell Investcentre links up with Dynamic Planner')Nearly 1 in 3 IFAs (30%) are planning or exploring a sale, per an AFH Wealth Management survey of 80 advisers. Drivers include higher costs, regulatory burden, and value realisation. Two-thirds (66%) expect regulation to spur more sales within five years; 40% cite rising costs as a consolidation driver; 81% view consolidation as positive/necessary; only 16% think selling harms clients. Survey conducted by Goodman Lantern. (Financial Planning Today, 13/10/2025, 'A third of advisers want to sell up – survey')Quilter Financial Planning added eight new AR firms since April: Jupiter Wealth (Northwood, London; principal Geetika Sethi), Redleaf FP (Kent/West Sussex; principals James Hughes, Julian Durand, Jeremy Howard, Perry O’Shea), Roseum FP (Renfrew; principal Michaela Pashley), Singer WM (Keynsham; founder Cassie Singer), Ascent FP (St Asaph; directors Gaynor Lyth, Gwilym Lloyd Jones, John Ridings), Richmond WM (Hebburn; principal Neil Richmond), Mapledurham FP (Reading/Mapledurham; principal John Barry Laverick), Caldwell Financial (Belfast/London; founder Neal Caldwell CFA). (Financial Planning Today, 10/10/2025, 'Quilter Financial Planning network adds 8 new ARs')The cost of unpreparedness in Financial Services - For Wealth and Asset Management firms in 2025, an estimated 10-20% of sale value is being eroded on deals due to a lack of preparation before sale. Considering selling your firm? Our M&A team can help you boost EBITDA growth and strategically position your firm for sale. Learn more about our unique approach. (IDEX Consulting news, 'The cost of unpreparedness in Financial Services')The wealth tax uncertainty: impact for wealth managers and their clients - A potential UK wealth tax is sparking widespread discussion to help stabilise the nation's 2.7$ trillion debt. The debate signals urgent proactive planning for wealth managers and clients. (IDEX Consulting news, 'The wealth tax uncertainty: impact for wealth managers and their clients')Looking for a new financial services career opportunity?- Our recruiters are supporting leading firms across wealth management, pensions, actuarial and employee benefits. Check out our latest vacancies. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Looking for a new financial services career opportunity?')Keen to understand what your financial services firm might be worth?- Use the free IDEX business calculator to get an accurate valuation that will provide invaluable insights. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Keen to understand what your financial services firm might be worth?')Mergers and AcquisitionsSchroders sold its 49.4% stake in Schroders Personal Wealth to Lloyds in exchange for Lloyds’ 19.1% stake in Cazenove Capital. SPW becomes wholly owned by Lloyds and will rebrand as Lloyds Wealth. The 2019 JV delivered ~£45m operating profit in H1 2025. A multi-year IM agreement keeps Schroders managing SPW and Scottish Widows assets, and Lloyds will continue referring HNW clients to Cazenove. The deal aims to expand both firms’ wealth propositions in complementary segments. (Financial Planning Today, 9/10/2025, 'Schroders sells share in wealth JV to Lloyds')Hoxton Wealth acquired Manchester-based Haven IFA (undisclosed), adding ~£140m AUM, expanding its North West presence from Liverpool along the M62; two of Haven’s four advisers will join (two retiring) with the admin team moving over to ensure client continuity, as the firm establishes a strategic Manchester base. (Financial Planning Today, 27/10/2025, 'Hoxton Wealth Acquires £140m AUM Manchester firm')AFH Wealth Management acquired St Albans firm Avidity Wealth Management (undisclosed), integrating the team immediately and rebranding as AFH Wealth Management St Albans; Avidity brings £750m+ FUM, ~1,800 clients, 11 advisers and 13 staff, strengthening AFH’s South-East presence. (Financial Planning Today, 23/10/2025, 'AFH adds £750m AUM with acquisition of Herts Planner')MKC Wealth, backed by private equity, acquired four IFAs - Money Flow, Goldcrest Financial Planning, Berg-Davies Associates, and Sherpa Financial Solutions - for undisclosed sums, with principals retiring post-transition. Sherpa (Norwood, founded 2016 by Shaun Stentiford), Berg-Davies (Stowmarket, founded by Roger Davies), Goldcrest (Surrey, founded 2018 by Charles Everingham), and Money Flow (Kingston upon Thames, founded by Roland Askew) will transition clients to MKC before founder retirements; Money Flow’s sale followed a recommendation from a prior seller. (Financial Planning Today, 16/10/2025, 'MKC Wealth acquires quartet of IFA firms')Titan Wealth will acquire Blacktower (c. £2.2bn AUM), pending regulatory approval, merging it into Titan Wealth International. The combined entity aims to scale globally, enhance discretionary and investment management, and expand client support by pairing Titan’s institutional capabilities with Blacktower’s 40 years of international advisory experience. Price undisclosed. (Financial Planning Today, 13/10/2025, 'Titan Wealth to buy £2.2bn AUM international adviser')The Finli Group acquired four adviser firms: Catterson Wealth Management, Groundwell, Oaklands Wealth Management, Peter Guy Financial Planning, adding ~£259m AUA. The Milton Keynes-based national firm now tops £5bn AUA and has completed 18 acquisitions year-to-date, strengthening its core regional footprint.(Financial Planning Today, 3/10/2025, 'Finli makes 4 adviser firm acquisitions')Sovereign Capital Partners acquired a majority stake in Equilibrium, with existing management retaining a significant minority and day-to-day control. Terms undisclosed. Equilibrium keeps its brand, HQ, and relationship-led model; no changes to client relationships, portfolios, fees, or jobs. Sovereign will use Equilibrium as a national buy-and-build platform to scale into new regions. Founder Colin Lawson remains involved. (Financial Planning Today, 1/10/2025, 'Former Shackleton owner buys majority stake in Equilibrium FP')MoversEvelyn Partners appointed ex-Edinburgh Rugby star Chris Dean to its Edinburgh team in a business development role while he trains as a financial planner, following the recent hire of ex-pro Alex Tait; Dean will drive opportunities across planning and investment, strengthen key relationships, raise the firm’s profile, and leverages his JP Morgan Athlete Transition Programme experience. (Financial Planning Today, 28/10/2025, 'Evelyn recruits rugby star to Financial Planning team')WH Ireland’s chair Simon Moore and NED Gary Stran resigned after shareholders rejected the £1m sale of its wealth arm to Oberon Investments at a General Meeting, calling it a vote of “no confidence.” The deal has collapsed, with both board resolutions failing. (Financial Planning Today, 9/10/2025, 'WH Ireland chair quits as wealth arm sale collapses')In further news...WH Ireland appoints Lumin Wealth co-MD John Cusins as Non-Exec Director to help shape plans after shareholders blocked the £1m sale of its wealth arm to Oberon; Cusins, a chartered accountant and Lumin co-founder now part of VZ Group, holds 1.63% of WH Ireland and will support consultations with principal shareholders. (Financial Planning Today, 27/10/2025, 'Troubled WH Ireland appoints Lumin MD as director')Evelyn Partners bolsters its London team with two senior hires: Sukaina Karim-Hussein as director, financial planning, formerly at Coutts with a focus on entrepreneurs and female founders, and Hector Millar as associate director, chartered financial planner, previously at London Wall Partners, specialising in City professionals and partners of Magic Circle law firms. (Financial Planning, 23/10/2025, 'Evelyn adds 2 senior Financial Planners')Amyr Rocha Lima, former CISI Financial Planning Forum chair and UK financial planner, will join the global Financial Planning Standards Board from 1 April. The FPSB, which sets standards for CFP professionals worldwide, also announced Amy Richardson (TCI Wealth Advisors) joining the board, Caroline Dabu beginning a two-year term as chair from April, and Eunice Chan becoming chairperson-elect in 2026. Lima, managing director at Strategic Wealth Partners, remains on the CISI board and co-founded SWP in 2023 with Benchmark Capital’s support. (Financial Planning Today, 22/10/2025, 'Amyr Rocha Lima joins FPSB board')Nucleus Financial Platforms promoted chief commercial officer Mike Regan to deputy CEO, a new role in which he’ll support CEO Richard Rowney while retaining current duties and helping shape strategy. Regan joined in 2022 as CFO, helped drive the Curtis Banks and Third Financial acquisitions, led commercial wins and proposition investment, and previously held senior finance roles at BGL Insurance, Coutts, and RBS, with earlier stints at PwC, HSBC, UBS, and WestLB. (Financial Planning Today, 21/10/2025, 'Nucleus promotes CCO to be deputy CEO')Suttons IFA hired Chartered Financial Planner Richard Higgs from Equilibrium FP. The Sale-based firm, which made its third acquisition (Whitewell FP, Bolton) earlier this year, has grown AUM to £300m. Higgs brings 18 years’ experience, is a CII Fellow, and previously spent ~10 years at Equilibrium and earlier roles at BNY Mellon. (Financial Planning Today, 7/10/2025, 'Manchester firm adds Chartered Financial Planner')Wealth Manager Blevins Franks appointed James Roberts (co-founder, Partners Wealth Management) as CEO, pending regulatory approval. The expat-focused firm (serving UK nationals in Europe) notes Roberts will be only its third leader in 50 years, underscoring continuity and client-centric culture, per chair John Stone. (Financial Planning Today, 6/10/2025, 'New CEO hired for expat specialist Blevins Franks')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Financial Planning Today and IDEX Consulting.

General Insurance newsletter Friday 31st October 2025

Insurance NewsThe cost of not preparing your brokerage for sale - Lack of proper preparation directly impacts a business' sale value. This year, over $1.5 billion in potential deal value for brokers and MGAs is expected to be lost or eroded due to last-minute due diligence failures and unaddressed pre-sale deficiencies. Considering selling your brokerage? Our M&A team can help you boost EBITDA growth and strategically position your firm for sale. Learn more about our unique approach. (IDEX Consulting news, 'The cost of not preparing your brokerage for sale')Does your compensation reflect your true value? - Access the IDEX Salary Calculator to access the latest salary data for your role. Our free tool provides precise industry benchmarks for your role, equipping you with accurate data to confidently negotiate a pay increase or evaluate your current earning potential. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Does your compensation reflect your true value?')InsurTech market insights - The InsurTech market is poised for continued growth, creating a huge opportunity for traditional insurers to overhaul their product distribution strategies. Read IDEX's analysis on which product lines are growing and how businesses across insurance can capitalise on them. (IDEX Consulting news, 'InsurTech market insights')Which AI solutions work for you? - Platforms like InsurGPT, Eigen Technologies, and Guidewire are totally reshaping the insurance industry. Are you maximising your team’s efficiency? Find out which cutting-edge AI insurance tech you should be implementing to boost productivity and stay competitive. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Which AI solutions work for you?')Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. posted a 20% Q3 revenue jump to $3.33B—its 19th straight quarter of double-digit growth—driven by 4.8% organic gains and acquisitions (including the $13.8B AssuredPartners deal), with adjusted EPS at $2.32 and a declared $0.65 dividend. (Rod Bolivar, 31/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Gallagher sees 20% Q3 revenue jump')AXIS Q3 2025: combined ratio improved to 89.4% (insurance 85.9%, reinsurance 92.2%), net income $294M, insurance GPW up 11% and reinsurance up 6%, driven by stronger underwriting and portfolio enhancements; leadership updates include a new US Healthcare Re head and CFO transition in 2026. (Rod Bolivar, 30/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'AXIS sees combined ratio drop below 90%')Markel Group Q3: insurance combined ratio improved to 93% with 11% GWP growth, driving a 55% surge in adjusted operating income to $428M; year-to-date insurance combined ratio at 95% with 11% AOI growth to nearly $1B, supported by higher investment income and strong cash flow. (Josh Recamara, 30/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Markel Group's insurance segment posts strong Q3 underwriting gains')Tokio Marine GX and Northcourt launched NC Fusion, the first Lloyd’s facility tailored to nuclear fusion risks, creating scalable coverage frameworks that address fusion’s distinct risk profile versus fission to support projects from R&D through commercial deployment as the sector accelerates. (Jonalyn Cueto, 30/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Tokio Marine and Northcourt launch fusion insurance facility')Fortegra Insurance UK has been added to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Quarterly Listing of Alien Insurers, enabling UK MGAs and brokers to access US surplus lines business more easily, bolstered by its PRA/FCA authorisation and growing London market presence. (Kenneth Araullo, 29/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Fortegra Insurance UK added to NAIC alien insurers list')Mission, the global managing general agent (MGA) incubator, will support the Q4 2025 launch of Lumara Insurance, a UK commercial combined MGA led by former Covéa leaders David Aslin and Mark Greig, offering single-policy, modular cover for business insurance and motor trade combined to help brokers streamline placements amid a surge of new, innovation-focused MGA entrants in the UK market. (Kenneth Araullo, 29/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Mission confirms support for latest UK MGA entrant')Zurich Insurance Group launched the Zurich AI Lab, a multi-location research initiative with ETH Zurich and the University of St. Gallen to develop scalable AI solutions for insurance and publish industry research, led by CEO Mario Greco with executive sponsors Ericson Chan and Carlos Rey de Vicente. (Kenneth Araullo, 29/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Zurich expands AI ambitions with new research lab')UK professional indemnity underwriters face margin pressure as falling rates outpace stable claims severity; Markel’s Mark Plews urges underwriting discipline, regional market engagement, and clearer PI–cyber wordings amid inflation, regulatory scrutiny, fraud risks, and emerging AI exposures. (Bryony Garlick, 28/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Specialist PI under pressure as rate declines outpace claims')Descartes Underwriting joined the International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation (ICMIF) as a supporting member to collaborate with mutuals on parametric solutions that close the climate protection gap, leveraging AI- and physics-based models amid rising catastrophe losses and low insurance penetration. (Kenneth Araullo, 28/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Descartes Underwriting joins ICMIF to tackle climate risk')Everest Group’s Q3 net income fell to US$255m from US$509m as the combined ratio rose to 103.4%, driven by US casualty reserve strengthening; reinsurance posted an 87.0% combined ratio versus 138.1% in insurance, with GWP down 1.2% to US$4.4bn and an ADC of up to US$1.2bn placed with Longtail Re to cover prior-year liabilities. (Kenneth Araullo, 29/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Everest Group's profits halved as combined ratio rises in Q3')Arch Capital reported Q3 net income of US$1.3bn, with insurance segment growth (NPW +7.3%, GWP +9.7%) and lower cat losses driving record operating income; reinsurance NPW fell 10.7% but earned premiums rose 6.5%, book value per share reached US$62.32 (+5.3% QoQ), and the company repurchased ~US$732m of shares. (Kenneth Araullo, 28/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Arch Capital Q3 net income hits $1.3bn, driven by insurance gains')Brown & Brown posted record Q3 revenue of $1.6bn (+35%), driven by acquisitions and 3.5% organic growth; margins narrowed with income before tax down 1.9% and margin at 19.4%, while adjusted EBITDAC rose 42% to $587m. The quarter included the $9.83bn Accession Risk Management (RSC Topco) acquisition and 5,000+ new hires as the broker expands globally. (Kenneth Araullo, 28/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Brown & Brown sees record revenue, narrower margins in Q3')Everest will sell renewal rights for its Global Retail Commercial Insurance book (~$2bn GWP across US/UK/EU/APAC) to AIG and refocus on Global Reinsurance and Wholesale & Specialty; it also secured a $1.2bn adverse development cover with Longtail Re on NA Insurance reserves (AY 2024 and prior), with Jason Keen named CEO of Global Wholesale & Specialty Insurance to drive E&S growth, pending regulatory approvals. (Josh Recamara, 28/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Everest refocuses with AIG renewal rights sale and $1.2 billion reserve protection deal')UK insurers are accelerating digital transformation, with 89% investing in digital initiatives according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI); AI, automation, personalisation, and on-demand models are reshaping pricing, distribution, and CX, while rising cyber risk, FCA focus on responsible AI, and legacy integration remain key challenges amid stronger UK cyber demand. (Josh Recamara, 28/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'UK insurers rapidly embracing tech innovations')Howden reports a record 37 insurers participating in 2025/26 solicitors’ PII, signalling a softer market with heightened competition, wider excess layer capacity, and general rate declines—though premiums may still rise for fast-growing firms; 18‑month terms persist, cyber uptake is increasing, and underwriters are now probing AI use, while higher‑risk conveyancing-heavy practices remain less favoured. (Kenneth Araullo, 27/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Law firms see softer market, more insurers in 2025 PII renewal: Howden')Mergers and AcquisitionsAIG and Onex will take 35% and 63% stakes in Convex (valuing common equity at $7B), with AIG also entering a whole-account quota share from Jan 2026; AIG will additionally buy 9.9% of Onex and commit $2B to its funds, with both deals expected to close H1 2026. (Steven Byerley, 30/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'AIG, Onex forge strategic partnership with major investments in Convex Group')Starr Insurance will acquire IQUW Group (syndicates IQUW and ERS plus IQUW Re Bermuda), making Starr’s managing agency the ninth-largest at Lloyd’s; the deal broadens reach in Bermuda, UK retail motor and London wholesale, with IQUW CEO Peter Bilsby set to lead Starr’s international business; closing expected H1 2026, subject to approvals. (Josh Recamara, 30/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Starr Insurance agrees to acquire IQUW Group')MovesFollowing recent UK acquisitions and rebrands, Acrisure bolstered its UK retail leadership with David Cramp as Chief Revenue Officer, Rob White as Chief Risk and Compliance Officer and Rowanne Dicker as Head of UK Retail Markets and Placement, while MPS appointed Dr. Pallavi Bradshaw as medical director following Dr. Rob Hendry’s move to chief member officer, with Bradshaw starting in early 2026. (Rod Bolivar, 31/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Following acquisitions, Acrisure and MPS announce new appointments')Allianz UK appointed Vicky Yuill as distribution director for Allianz Personal Broker from December 2025, bringing over 20 years’ experience including head of insurance at Sainsbury’s Bank and leadership roles at Ageas and Kwik Fit Insurance Services; this follows Glyn Hughes’ appointment as managing director from February 2026, signaling a stronger push into personal lines broker distribution. (Josh Recamara, 30/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Allianz and AutoRek')Amiga Specialty named Martin Mills—Millstream founder who built it into a leading travel and PA MGA before its 2015 sale to Nexus—as non-executive chair to bolster governance and fuel growth in travel and PA, per founder/MD Adam Kembrooke. (Josh Recamara, 29/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Amiga, FM, Ignite Specialty')Ignite Specialty Risk made four hires to fuel UK/EU/US growth: Tim Woodgett (ex-Liberty Mutual, MS Amlin, Hiscox) as chief of staff to drive strategy, plus UK underwriting additions Ben Lim (portfolio manager, ex-Marsh), Angus Eames (technical underwriter, ex-ClientEarth/DLA Piper), and Matt Evans (promoted to technical underwriter); CEO Byron Sumner said the moves deepen expertise and enhance service quality as the firm scales globally. (Josh Recamara, 29/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Amiga, FM, Ignite Specialty')IGI appointed London market veteran Malcolm Barnes as head of specialty treaty to expand its reinsurance presence from its 20 Fenchurch Street office; ex-Amlin Syndicate 2001 marine treaty lead, Barnes brings 35+ years across Lloyd’s, with CUO Chris Jarvis highlighting growth ambitions in marine, energy, and PV/terrorism specialty treaty lines. (Josh Recamara, 28/10/2025, Insurance Business, 'IGI appoints Malcolm Barnes to lead specialty treaty reinsurance in London')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Insurance Business and IDEX Consulting.

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