Direct premium flowing through the Delegated Underwriting Authority Enterprises (DUAE) market in the United States continued its significant growth rate in 2022, increasing by 13.8% to $67.6 billion, according to a new report from AM Best.
However, data from the rating agency shows these premium sources varying significantly by insurer.
Some are using managing general agents (MGAs) to source new business, but only around the margins, typically for less than 5% of an insurer’s overall premium.
Other insurers, especially those focused on specialty commercial insurance, use a hybrid model, with some programs managed by in-house underwriters and others by MGAs with carriers relying on them for most, if not all, of the distribution and underwriting.
“Over the last few years, tightening in different segments of the commercial lines market drove higher premium growth, attributable to DUAEs, particularly with respect to general liability, professional liability, umbrella and excess liability, and commercial auto coverage,” AM Best Senior Director Greg Williams said.
Seven insurance companies wrote more than $1.0 billion in 2022 DPW through affiliated or unaffiliated MGAs, AM Best reports, with the top 20 MGAs generating 32.5% of the $67.6 billion in 2022 direct premium written.
It suggests that flexible business models, newer technology, and more nimble operating structures have made DUAEs more attractive to talent.
Additionally, reinsurers seeking to align their interests with partners have helped intensify competition through the proliferation of hybrid fronting insurers, many of which partner with DUAEs for their expertise and for access to desired risk classes.
