Cobalt & Capita Plan to Launch Lloyd’s 1st Fully Shariah Compliant Syndicate

Cobalt Insurance Holdings Ltd. and Capita Managing Agency Ltd. (CMA) have announced they have taken a significant step in the launch of Lloyd’s first fully Shariah compliant syndicate after receiving “in principle” approval from Lloyd’s Franchise Board.

Cobalt Founder Richard Bishop said the aim now was to work closely with CMA and Lloyd’s to secure full approval.

“We are delighted to be working with Capita Managing Agency on the launch and operation of the syndicate. To create Lloyd’s first ever fully Shariah compliant syndicate is a significant step for Cobalt and will demonstrate Lloyd’s reputation for innovating solutions for emerging markets,” Bishop said.

Cobalt plans to begin underwriting in the first quarter of 2017 with an initial emphasis on developing a property and specialty focused book of commercial business from the emerging and developing markets throughout the MENA and Asian regions. Less focus will be on business from the more established markets of North America and Europe, the company said in a statement.

“We are delighted to have been given approval in principle and we are excited at the potential for both Cobalt and the market with the launch of our new syndicate,” Bishop continued.

Once it achieves full approval the syndicate will be named Cobalt Syndicate 1438, which is the Islamic calendar’s number for the year 2017.

Cobalt expect to announce the name of the syndicate’s active underwriter imminently, as well as details of the syndicate’s principal capital providers.

“We have been working to build a panel of highly rated and respected institutions and we have been delighted with the response,” said Bishop. “The aim of the syndicate is to look to underwrite new business from emerging markets and in doing so working with others in Lloyd’s to extend their participation in those markets.”

Source: Cobalt Insurance Holdings

Topics Excess Surplus Lloyd's