Insurance
At the forefront of the global insurance industry
Clients choose Freshfields as we specialize in large, complex and novel insurance M&A transactions and are at the forefront of complex regulatory matters impacting the global insurance industry. Our in-depth knowledge of the sector and world-leading M&A expertise mean that we can deliver in demanding circumstances.
We also advise on a wide range of other transactions for insurers. In particular, we have a strong track record in advising clients on complex Part VII transfers and other restructurings in the UK. In the reinsurance space, we advise on long-term and high-profile reinsurance transactions in the non-life and life sectors, including longevity swaps and pension scheme buy-outs.
We play a leading role in complex regulatory matters and industry-wide initiatives impacting the insurance industry. Often our advice has cross-border elements, for example advising insurers and reinsurers in relation to restructurings relating to Solvency II.
In what are some of the largest and most high-profile mandates in the market, we continue to advise a number of insurers and brokers in the aftermath of Brexit. This means providing complex and innovative structuring advice, including technical legal and regulatory analysis covering licensing, outsourcing, regulatory capital, consolidated supervision and resolution planning.
Recent client successes
Advising Lloyd’s on its 'Part VII' insurance business transfer of all existing Lloyd’s EEA policies to Brussels. This is the largest and most complex Part VII ever undertaken in the UK.
Advising Aon plc on its acquisition of Willis Towers Watson plc, one of the largest public M&A transactions announced in 2020.
Advising Equitable Life on the restructuring and transfer of its entire business to Utmost Life and Pensions Limited in a deal that was of huge significance to the life insurance sector.
Advising Hastings Group on the recommended cash takeover by a consortium comprising Sampo plc and Rand Merchant Investment Holdings Limited.
Advising Cinven and its portfolio company Viridium Group (German run-off platform for life insurance business) on the acquisition of a majority stake of 89.9 per cent. of the shares in Generali Lebensversicherung AG, the German life insurance business of Assicurazioni Generali Group.
Contacts
View our full team
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George Swan Partner
London
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Lauren Honeyben Partner
London
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Dr. Wessel Heukamp Partner
Munich
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Robert Ashworth Partner
Hong Kong