Despite a decrease in mergers and acquisitions due to economic and geopolitical challenges, Marsh saw its third busiest year in terms of transactional risk insurance placements. The demand for R&W cover and other transactional risk policies remained strong, with Marsh placing nearly $50 billion in limits across 1,200 deals. The market also saw declines in pricing for primary layer R&W insurance, a shift in Marsh's client base composition, and an increase in insurance underwriting capacity in Asia and the Pacific. Claims activity also saw an increase in North America and EMEA.
Marsh Sees Third Busiest Year for Transactional Risk Insurance
Despite a decrease in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) due to economic and geopolitical challenges, Marsh & McLennan Companies (MMC), a leading global professional services firm, saw its third busiest year in terms of transactional risk insurance placements.
Demand Remains Strong for Transactional Risk Policies
The demand for representations and warranties (R&W) cover and other transactional risk policies remained strong, with Marsh placing nearly $50 billion in limits across 1,200 deals. R&W insurance protects buyers and sellers in M&A transactions against breaches of representations and warranties made in the purchase agreement.
Shift in Client Base Composition
Marsh saw a shift in its client base composition, with an increase in private equity and family office deals. These clients typically have different risk profiles and insurance needs compared to corporate buyers and sellers.
Increased Insurance Underwriting Capacity in Asia-Pacific
The market witnessed an increase in insurance underwriting capacity in Asia-Pacific, driven by growing M&A activity in the region. This expansion of capacity has made it easier for Marsh to secure favorable pricing and terms for its clients.
Increased Claims Activity in North America and EMEA
Claims activity saw an increase in North America and EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa). Factors contributing to this increase include a rise in complex M&A transactions and a more aggressive approach from plaintiffs' attorneys.
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