The U.S. surplus lines market just hit a new high: direct premiums written (DPW), as it peaked just under $130 billion in 2024. That’s not just growth, it’s momentum. And according to AM Best’s report, The Need for Specialized Expertise Propels the US Surplus Lines Market, that momentum is being powered by specialty risks, delegated authority, and the expertise of MGAs.
Where the opportunities lie
➡ Program business is thriving: MGAs with deep expertise are driving change and winning capacity.
➡ Speed to market matters: Specialty risks demand quick, data-driven decisions.
➡ Cross-atlantic impact: While the U.S. leads, Europe is following closely, with London cementing its role as the hub for delegated authority.
Key market challenges
Growth doesn’t come without friction:
➡ Compliance is tightening
➡ Data quality is under scrutiny
➡ Reinsurers are demanding transparency and accuracy
For insurers, reinsurers, MGAs, and brokers, the report makes one thing clear: managing program data effectively is no longer optional, it’s mission critical.
Our Perspective
At VIPR, we’re proud members of WSIA who highlighted this report. Our technology turns messy bordereaux into clear, compliant, actionable program data, helping the market move faster, smarter, and with confidence.
