DUAL, the specialist underwriting arm of Howden Group Holdings, has completed the acquisition of David Ashby Underwriting (DAU), a managing general agent (MGA) specialising in bloodstock and High Value Sports Horse insurance.
According to the announcement, this acquisition enhances DUAL’s capabilities in the equestrian sector and cements the firm as a leader in the bloodstock underwriting arena.
Richard Clapham, CEO, DUAL Group, said: “David Ashby has a long-standing reputation for excellence and they bring a real passion for the equestrian sector. We are delighted to welcome them to DUAL.
“This positions DUAL as one of the London Market’s leading bloodstock underwriters, and we look forward to seeing David build on Ashby’s existing business, as well as identifying new opportunities to grow.”
DAU was formed in 2020 following David Ashby’s acquisition of Amlin’s bloodstock and livestock book, supported by Blunt Palmer Brown Ventures (BPB). It provides cover in Thoroughbred bloodstock, commercial breeding, rearing and racing, and High Value Sports Horses.
The MGA’s team of ten, including eight underwriters, will join DUAL with immediate effect.
Ashby commented: “We are excited to join DUAL. Not only are they one of the largest and most diverse MGAs in the world, they also share our focus on excellence in underwriting. We did not choose our future home lightly and I am looking forward to working with Richard and the DUAL team.”
David Howden, CEO, Howden, said: “Joining with David and his expert team deepens our connection to the equestrian world, and makes us a true differentiator in this exciting market.
“DUAL now provides world-class expertise in all the major equine markets, and we will continue to leverage our expertise to provide more choice and a fresh alternative for clients.”
