Howden acquires captive manager

Howden has agreed to acquire ARM Group Holdings, the parent of Alternative Risk Management, one of the largest independent insurance managers in Europe and a specialist in the formation and management of insurance captives.

Howden said this represents ‘a significant step’ in its strategy to accelerate the growth of its multinational clients' practice and its commitment to delivering the very best solutions for multinational and large clients.

Based in Guernsey and with a management licence in Bermuda, ARM is a group of companies that provide insurance management services to clients worldwide. According to Howden, ARM offers a comprehensive and diverse range of services, managing over 80 captive structures.

“In-house captive capabilities are an essential piece of the puzzle in order for us to provide unparalleled solutions for our large and multinational clients,” said Morwenna Howell, managing director and global practice leader, Howden Multinational Clients Practice. 

“This is a growing market with strong demand for new entrants, and by harnessing the power of our global network, our market-leading specialty, reinsurance and analytics capabilities, and now, our enhanced captive capabilities, we look forward to continuing our growth.”

Charles Scott, managing director, ARM, said: “We have built a robust, successful business in the last 20 years, and joining with Howden represents the logical next step in our journey. It has been an easy decision to make as we already manage a number of Howden clients, allowing us to get to know them and vice-versa. We share Howden’s entrepreneurial spirit and client-centric approach and look forward to providing worldwide captive solutions to Howden and other clients.”

The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals.