Starr completes IQUW acquisition to scale global specialty platform

Starr Insurance has completed its acquisition of IQUW Group, creating a larger and more diversified global specialty reinsurance platform across the London market, Bermuda and UK motor.

The combined business will expand Starr’s reach across specialist classes and client segments, while strengthening its position at Lloyd’s of London, where it becomes the ninth largest managing agent business.

Starr said the transaction enhances its underwriting platform and broadens its product offering, supported by greater capital strength and global scale.

The deal also significantly boosts Starr’s reinsurance capabilities, with IQUW Re Bermuda and IQUW’s London reinsurance operations rebranded as Starr Re.

The unit will write inward reinsurance business, leveraging Starr’s balance sheet to support more diversified underwriting across geographies and lines.

IQUW Group wrote $1.88bn of gross written premium in 2025, including business from Syndicate 1856, ERS Syndicate 218 and IQUW Re Bermuda.

Syndicate 1856 will be rebranded as Starr, while ERS will retain its existing brand given its established position in the UK motor market.

Jeff Greenberg, chairman and co-CEO of Starr, said the acquisition marks a key step in the firm’s strategy.

“The completion of this transaction advances Starr’s strategy to build a global, diversified, best-in-class underwriting business. I am delighted to welcome our new colleagues to Starr.”

“Together, we are a larger, more resilient platform with the scale and expertise to compete and win across global markets and deliver sustainable, long-term growth.”

Steve Blakey, president and CEO of Starr Insurance Holdings, said the integration would enhance client service and product breadth.

“We are thrilled to be bringing together our talented people and ensuring that our clients and brokers have the same seamless support and access to a broader suite of specialist solutions.”

“As a combined organization, we will remain relentlessly focused on delivering exceptional service for our brokers and clients across all elements of our business.”

Peter Bilsby, who will lead Starr’s international business, said the deal builds on IQUW’s development as a specialist platform.

“The completion of this transaction is a proud moment for everyone who has contributed to building the IQUW Group since its inception,” he said.

“Now, as part of Starr, we can take advantage of being part of a stronger and more diversified global organisation,” Bilsby added.