Global re/insurer MS Amlin has launched David Ashby Underwriting Ltd, a specialist equine MGA formed following the buyout of MS Amlin’s equine book of business and renewal rights.
Former managing director and principal underwriter for Equine at MS Amlin, David Ashby, will serve as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Underwriting Officer of DAU.
DAU will service MS Amlin’s existing livestock and bloodstock business through a purchase agreement ensuring existing brokers and clients complete continuity of cover and service.
It is expected to underwrite gross written premium of approximately £25 million in 2020 and will focus on bloodstock, commercial breeding, rearing and racing, and equestrian across both sports performance and leisure horses.
MS Amlin will serve as lead underwriter for the MGA and provide 50% of capacity for DAU through a joint venture with specialist insurer Hiscox.
DAU is part of BPB Underwriting Management Ltd, a new MGA management agency, and will receive business support from Asta Underwriting Management Ltd.
“We are pleased to announce the launch of DAU, which is in line with our new underwriting strategy announced on 30 September,” said Tom Clementi, AUL CEO, MS Amlin.
“DAU’s strong book of business will enable MS Amlin to retain its participation in the equine insurance market by underwriting via an MGA.
We look forward to continuing our working relationship with David Ashby, who has long established himself as a market-leading equine underwriter, and supporting him in this new venture.”
Commenting on the announcement, Ashby said, “I’m excited to lead our specialist bloodstock underwriting business and to have secured the ongoing support of MS Amlin, alongside new capacity provided by Hiscox.
“The confidence BPB Underwriting Management has shown in our team’s underwriting expertise has ensured that our business is off to a flying start and I’m confident that 2020 will be a great success.”
