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July 25, 2025
Federal Regulators Withdraw Truck Speed Limiter Proposals Over Data Gaps
Federal regulators have officially withdrawn proposed rules that would have required large commercial trucks to operate with speed limiters, citing insufficient safety and economic data to support the mandate.
Background on the Proposals
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) canceled two separate rulemakings: one introduced in 2016 during the Obama administration and another revisited in 2022 under the Biden administration. Both initiatives originated from requests by the American Trucking Associations, Schneider National, and other stakeholders.
The proposed rules targeted trucks with a gross vehicle weight over 26,000 pounds and would have capped speeds at 60, 65, or 68 miles per hour. Advocates claimed the limits would reduce highway fatalities and improve fuel efficiency.
Reasons for Withdrawal
In a joint statement, FMCSA and NHTSA cited “significant policy and safety concerns” along with “continued data gaps” that created uncertainty around the estimated costs and benefits of the mandate. They noted several specific challenges:
- Advances in safety technology, such as automatic emergency braking (AEB) and forward collision warning (FCW), may already mitigate many of the crashes speed limiters were expected to reduce
- Crash data uncertainty, as regulators could not determine whether speed differentials between limited trucks and faster-moving passenger vehicles would increase rear-end collisions
- Economic impacts, including unclear estimates of potential losses from slower delivery times, depreciation of perishable goods, and delays in time-sensitive shipments
- Operational challenges, since the mandate could reduce daily driving distances, potentially requiring more trucks on the road to move the same amount of freight
- State-level concerns, with a federal speed mandate potentially undercutting states’ ability to set speed limits tailored to local roadway conditions
Stakeholder Reactions
The rulemakings generated over 16,000 public comments and divided the trucking industry:
- Large carriers and safety groups supported the proposals, citing potential safety improvements and operational savings. Many larger fleets already voluntarily use speed limiters to enhance fuel economy
- Independent truckers and small carriers opposed the mandates, arguing they would reduce efficiency, increase operating costs, and create dangerous speed differences with other vehicles. A coalition of 17 trucking associations warned that a “one-size-fits-all” federal restriction could increase the likelihood of crashes
Projected Benefits vs. Current Realities
The original 2016 analysis estimated that setting a 65 mph limit could save between 63 and 214 lives annually, valued at $716 million to $2.4 billion, along with $848 million in fuel and emissions savings based on 2013 pricing. However, regulators emphasized that these calculations are outdated given today’s vehicle technology and traffic conditions.
The agencies concluded that without updated research and more robust data on speed-related crashes, economic tradeoffs, and new vehicle safety systems, the proposals lacked the necessary justification to proceed.
What’s Next?
FMCSA and NHTSA have not indicated plans to revisit the issue, leaving speed governance policies largely in the hands of individual trucking companies and state regulations. The decision reflects an ongoing balance between safety initiatives, operational efficiency, and evolving technology in commercial transportation.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 25, 2025
Honda Launches Insurance for Acura and Honda Customers

July 25, 2025
Q2 2025 Insurance Shopping Trends: What’s Driving Policyholder Behavior?
The latest J.D. Power Insurance Shopping List Report, created in collaboration with TransUnion, reveals shifting dynamics in how consumers shop for and switch auto, home, and renters insurance. After a record-breaking surge in Q1, insurance shopping cooled off in Q2 2025 — but key trends suggest continued volatility as customers respond to rising premiums, evolving risk factors, and easier access to comparison tools.
Here’s what stood out this quarter.
Auto, Home, and Renters Shopping Show Mixed Activity
Auto insurance shopping, which hit an all-time high in February, slowed down in Q2. While overall shopping rates dipped, switching behavior remained elevated, matching the record levels seen in late 2024. The average premium moving to new carriers was more than $4,700, highlighting how consumers are seeking meaningful savings by switching providers.
Home insurance showed a slightly different pattern. Shopping and switching picked up in June, reaching the highest rates since October 2024. Rising property insurance costs continue to push homeowners to explore alternatives.
Renters insurance followed yet another trajectory, with shopping declining in March but switching increasing in the first three months of the year, suggesting that even renters are feeling price pressures and looking for better deals.
Higher-Risk Customers Are Driving More Activity
One of the most striking findings from this quarter is the surge in shopping among higher-risk customers, particularly those with lower credit-based insurance scores. Shopping activity jumped 10 percent for auto insurance and 5 percent for property insurance compared to last year.
This trend indicates that insurers have shifted back to traditional rate models, where the steepest premium increases fall on riskier policies. The Northeast saw the highest auto insurance shopping activity, likely due to double-digit rate hikes in 2024. For property insurance, the focus remains squarely on profitability, which means homeowners in higher-risk areas may continue to see increased costs.
Bundled Customers Are Breaking Away
Historically, policyholders who bundled their auto and home coverage were considered the most stable and loyal. That is changing.
As auto rate increases have leveled off while home insurance premiums continue climbing, bundled customers are shopping and switching at much higher rates than in the past. Meanwhile, unbundled customers’ switching behavior has flattened over the past five quarters.
This trend is expected to continue as consumers look for cost-saving opportunities. New digital marketplaces and comparison tools are making it easier than ever to shop for policies, meaning even long-term bundled customers are no longer “locked in” by convenience.
Looking Ahead
The Q2 2025 data points to a consumer base that is:
- More price-sensitive, especially in markets where insurers raised rates aggressively in 2024
- More willing to unbundle, particularly if home insurance rates outpace auto rate changes
- More empowered to switch, thanks to technology that simplifies the process
For insurers and agents, this quarter underscores the importance of proactive communication, competitive pricing strategies, and clear explanations of value to retain customers. As premiums remain in flux and consumer habits shift, shopping and switching behavior is likely to stay active through the rest of the year.
Get the latest insurance market updates and discover exclusive program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 24, 2025
General Motors Insurance Expands to Arkansas, Colorado, and Louisiana
General Motors Insurance has broadened its reach, announcing availability in three additional states: Arkansas, Colorado, and Louisiana. This brings the total number of states where the program operates to 17.
The insurance product is available for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles with a model year of 2016 or newer. According to General Motors Insurance, policyholders can benefit from features such as in-vehicle technology integration, accident forgiveness, and deductible waivers.
The program uses connected vehicle data to inform its pricing and coverage, gathering information such as driving time of day and duration, miles driven, speed, changes in speed, and seat belt usage. This telematics-based approach is designed to reward safe driving habits.
Regulatory Background in Louisiana
The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) clarified that General Motors-affiliated insurance entities are not new entrants to the state. GM National Insurance Company has held a certificate of authority to write motor vehicle insurance in Louisiana since 2006. In addition, General Motors Insurance Services, Inc. — the affiliated agency that markets and sells policies — has been licensed as a producer agency in Louisiana since 2019.
In December 2024, GM National Insurance Company submitted a new private passenger auto insurance product for review. LDI completed its File and Use review process in February 2025, finding the company’s manual rates and rules in compliance. The policy form filing was approved in March 2025, and the program became effective in July 2025.
The newly approved product incorporates telematics technology to personalize insurance pricing, a practice that aligns with other usage-based insurance models already present in Louisiana and nationally.
State and Legislative Responses
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry welcomed the program’s availability in the state, connecting it to recent legislative efforts aimed at insurance reform. “General Motors Insurance coming to Louisiana is a testament to the work we accomplished this legislative session to bring about real insurance reform,” Landry stated. “Louisiana families deserve more options in this mandated market, and we are incredibly proud to welcome GM to our state.”
Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple acknowledged the recent passage of several legal reform bills but emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to improve the state’s legal environment. “If we want to see change in our market, it starts with meaningful change in our legal environment,” Temple said. “I look forward to working with the Legislature to continue identifying the areas of our legal system that make us an outlier and addressing those distinctions to align our legal system with best state practices.”
LDI Statement on Compliance
In its formal statement, the Louisiana Department of Insurance reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all insurers operate within the state’s regulatory framework. The department noted that it welcomes innovation and expanded options for consumers while maintaining oversight standards. “The LDI remains committed to transparency and accuracy in the oversight of insurance operations across the state,” the department said.
Key Facts
- General Motors Insurance is now available in 17 states, including the new additions of Arkansas, Colorado, and Louisiana.
- Coverage applies to 2016 or newer Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles.
- The program includes features like accident forgiveness, deductible waivers, and telematics-based pricing.
- GM National Insurance Company has been authorized in Louisiana since 2006, with the new product approved in March 2025 and effective in July 2025.
- Louisiana officials tied the program’s launch to recent insurance reform legislation and emphasized continued efforts toward legal and regulatory changes.

July 24, 2025
Dealing with Natural Disasters: Key Steps for Financial Preparedness
A recent Harris Poll conducted on behalf of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) highlights the financial gaps many Americans face when it comes to preparing for natural disasters. The survey, which included nearly 2,100 adults, revealed that almost one-third of respondents have not taken any financial steps to prepare for such events.
Despite a growing awareness of the risks posed by disasters, less than one-third of those surveyed reported taking even a single proactive step to safeguard their finances.
Survey Findings
The survey showed that 68% of respondents have taken some financial steps to prepare, a figure that aligns closely with the 66% who acknowledged that a natural disaster would have a major (29%) or moderate (37%) impact on their financial situation.
However, the most common step taken — reviewing and evaluating insurance needs to ensure adequate coverage — was reported by only 31% of respondents. Other preparedness actions included taking an inventory of assets and possessions for insurance purposes (30%) and creating or updating an estate plan or will (19%).
Among the nearly 300 business owners included in the survey, about two-thirds expressed concern over potential financial hardship resulting from natural disaster losses. Specifically, 31% of business owners said they were very concerned, and 33% were somewhat concerned.
Eva Simpson, CPA, CGMA, and AICPA vice president of Member Value, Tax & Advisory Services, noted that many people only recognize the importance of financial preparedness after a disaster strikes. “Disaster preparedness when it comes to finances can go a long way to mitigate the financial toll and help people and businesses recover,” Simpson said in a news release.
Recommendations for Individuals
The AICPA provided guidance on financial preparedness for individuals, recommending steps such as:
- Creating an emergency fund to cover immediate needs after a disaster.
- Reviewing insurance policies to ensure coverage is sufficient for potential risks.
- Protecting important financial documents by storing them securely and accessibly.
- Making or updating an estate plan to protect assets and ensure a clear plan for loved ones.
Recommendations for Businesses
For business owners, the AICPA suggested planning for both operational and financial disruptions that disasters can cause. Key steps include:
- Evaluating communication channels to ensure employees and stakeholders can stay informed.
- Planning for remote work to maintain operations during physical disruptions.
- Protecting critical data through secure backups and cybersecurity measures.
- Preparing for workspace disruptions, including identifying alternative locations if necessary.
The Importance of Preparedness
While natural disasters can have a profound emotional and financial impact, taking proactive steps before an event occurs can reduce the toll. “Preparing financially for a disaster is a challenging, but necessary, task for individuals, families, and business owners,” Simpson said. “Disasters can take a toll both emotionally and financially — taking these steps to prepare can provide peace of mind and help victims rebuild after a tragedy.”
About the American Institute of CPAs The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) is the world’s largest member association representing the CPA profession, with 397,000 members and a history of serving the public interest since 1887. AICPA members represent many areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, education, and consulting. A founding member of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the AICPA sets ethical standards for the profession, attestation standards, and U.S. auditing standards for private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and federal, state, and local governments. It develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination, offers specialized credentials, partners across the profession to build future talent, and drives continuing education to advance the vitality, relevance, and quality of the profession. Get the latest insurance market updates and discover exclusive program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 24, 2025
Judge Upholds Commissioner Lara’s Authority Over CA FAIR Plan
Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara issued a statement after a judge dismissed Consumer Watchdog’s baseless claims, which threatened to disrupt California’s insurance market at a critical time when homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits need greater access to coverage.
“The judge’s ruling affirms my authority under Prop. 103 to protect consumers and stabilize market conditions through my Sustainable Insurance Strategy. Consumer Watchdog’s lawsuit fails to address the state’s insurance crisis and is merely another attempt to create chaos in an already complex situation. I’m pleased the judge saw through their charade, which only harms homeowners, small businesses, and non-profits that need better access to insurance options. Consumer Watchdog — which itself admits it has no members — has not offered viable solutions to our state’s insurance crisis and continues undermining my efforts to restore our insurance market. They also continue to profit under Prop. 103 in the millions through higher rates on policyholders when insurance companies seek justified rates from my Department. I will continue to expose their hypocrisy and make the difficult decisions needed to stabilize our market and bring insurance options back to Californians.”Commissioner Lara is taking proactive steps to stabilize California’s insurance market as companies pull back from wildfire-prone areas, addressing a “hidden crisis” highlighted by Bloomberg. His actions have prevented further market decline and ensured the FAIR Plan could secure funds to pay wildfire-related claims promptly and fairly.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 23, 2025
A New Way to Insure the Gig Economy’s Quiet Powerhouses
About Our Independent Service Contractors Program
This Micro-BOP solution is made for non-construction service professionals who work from home, from a booth, or on the move. We offer broad protection, including professional liability, for many service classes.Ideal Clients Include:
- Business Services like:
- Bookkeepers, Graphic Designers, Appraisers
- Event Planners, Freelance Performers, Data Entry
- Coaches, Language Tutors, Translators
- Travel Planners, Resume Writers, and more
- Home & Personal Services like:
- DJs, Fitness Instructors, Makeup Artists
- Lawn Care Pros, Pet Sitters, House Cleaners
- Computer & Jewelry Repair, Aquarium Cleaners
- Personal Shoppers, Yoga Instructors, Wedding Officiants
What Makes Our Offering Distinctive
- Professional Liability, where applicable
- Easy quote + bind platform
- Built for businesses earning under $1M
- Ideal for home-based and mobile professionals

July 23, 2025
U.S. Private Flood Insurance Market Sees Growth but Remains Limited
The U.S. private flood insurance sector has expanded steadily in recent years, showing strong underwriting performance, but it still represents a relatively small portion of the overall property and casualty insurance market. According to Fitch Ratings, despite this momentum, only about 4% of U.S. homeowners currently have flood insurance coverage.
Wide Gap Between Economic and Insured Losses
The disparity between economic flood losses and insured flood losses remains significant. AccuWeather estimates that the recent catastrophic flooding in Texas could lead to economic losses of $18 billion to $22 billion. However, insured losses are expected to account for only a fraction of that total.
Drivers of Market Expansion
Fitch expects the gradual expansion of the private flood insurance market to continue. Contributing factors include:
- Advancements in flood mapping technology and analytics
- Regulatory developments supporting private market participation
- Risk-based pricing implementation within the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Premium Growth and Market Share
While private flood insurance premiums have grown rapidly, they still make up a small share compared to federal flood policies. Direct premiums written (DPW) for private residential flood nearly doubled between 2020 and 2024, rising from 277,000 policies to approximately 569,000. Over the same period, premium revenue increased by 240% to reach $0.5 billion.
By comparison, the broader homeowners insurance market saw DPW totaling $170 billion in 2024. This means that even significant economic flood losses have a relatively minor effect on the overall property and casualty industry’s financial results.
Underwriting Performance and Risk Distribution
Private flood insurance has delivered strong underwriting results in recent years. From 2018 to 2024, the average direct combined ratio for residential flood insurance was 60.4%, with the direct case incurred loss ratio staying below 50% in all but one year. The only recent underwriting loss was recorded in 2017 due to Hurricane Harvey.
The global reinsurance market and Lloyd’s of London syndicates support much of the underwriting exposure for private flood insurance. Over the past decade, these markets have increased their participation in U.S. flood risk, both in backing private flood insurance and supporting the NFIP’s reinsurance program.
Get the latest insurance market updates and discover exclusive program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 23, 2025
Gray Divorce: A Growing Risk to Retirement Security
The rising trend of gray divorce — divorces occurring among adults aged 65 and older — is reshaping retirement planning in unexpected ways. Even as the overall divorce rate in the United States shows a slight decline, the rate among older adults continues to climb. Splitting up later in life presents unique financial and emotional challenges, especially for those who have built a retirement strategy as a couple.
According to the 2025 Annual Retirement Study by the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, 56% of married Americans say that a divorce would derail their financial retirement plans. Among divorced Americans, 34% said their divorce set their retirement back, while 40% reported that it completely disrupted their strategy.
Why Late-Life Divorce Has a Bigger Impact
Divorce near or after retirement doesn’t leave much time to rebuild financial security. Savings intended to support one household must now stretch across two, often creating gaps that are difficult to fill. A couple who carefully planned for one shared future might suddenly find themselves funding two separate retirements, with doubled housing, healthcare, and living costs.
For those already retired, there’s even less flexibility. Assets may need to be divided, investments liquidated, and retirement timelines restructured. Kelly LaVigne, Vice President of Consumer Insights at Allianz Life, explained, “Those going through gray divorce don’t have the time to rebuild retirement savings on their own. Trying to fund two separate lives, instead of a joint one, can deplete retirement accounts faster than anticipated.”
Increased Responsibilities and Financial Stress
The financial aftermath of divorce is significant. More than half of divorced Americans (54%) say they have substantially more financial responsibilities after separating, and 41% report greater stress about money compared to when they were married. Many find themselves reconsidering their plans entirely, from delaying retirement to scaling back on lifestyle expectations.
Even younger generations recognize the risk. Nearly half of millennials (47%) worry about not having a financial plan in case of divorce, while 37% of Gen Xers share the same concern. For those already in retirement, the lack of time to recover makes the impact much more immediate and lasting.
Rethinking Retirement Planning
Gray divorce highlights the importance of regularly reviewing financial and retirement strategies. Some steps that can help mitigate the risks include:
- Keeping retirement plans flexible: Building strategies that account for unexpected life changes can make transitions easier.
- Understanding individual vs. joint assets: Knowing how retirement funds, property, and pensions would be divided in the event of divorce can help avoid surprises.
- Considering extended timelines: Those facing divorce later in life may need to delay retirement or adjust their expectations to maintain financial stability.
- Staying informed: Awareness of the potential financial and emotional toll can lead to better preparation for life’s uncertainties.
The Takeaway
Gray divorce is more than a personal decision — it can have profound financial consequences. Dividing assets and funding two retirements instead of one often leaves both individuals with fewer resources than planned. While no one wants to prepare for divorce, understanding its potential impact is a key part of building a secure, realistic retirement strategy.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 22, 2025
Faulkner University and Thompson Insurance Launch Internship and Annual Scholarship for Risk Management Students
Faulkner University and Thompson Insurance, Inc. have partnered to create new opportunities for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance (RMI). On July 18, 2025, the two organizations signed agreements to establish both a scholarship and an internship program within Faulkner’s Harris College of Business and The Stumbaugh School of Risk Management & Insurance.
One agreement formalized the Thompson Insurance Internship Program, while another created the Thompson Insurance Scholarship, which will provide annual financial support to one qualified, full-time RMI student.
The scholarship is designed for traditional students entering their junior or senior year in the RMI program. Applicants must be enrolled full-time, maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, and remain in good standing with the university. Candidates will also complete an application process that includes submitting recommendation letters and participating in an interview.
The Thompson Insurance Internship Program will offer rising juniors and seniors the chance to gain valuable, hands-on experience in a professional setting. Paid internships will be hosted at Thompson Insurance’s Montgomery location, beginning in the summer with full-time hours and continuing through the fall and spring semesters on a part-time schedule.
“Thompson Insurance’s support is a tremendous investment in our students and in the future of the insurance industry,” said Faulkner University President Mitch Henry. “These opportunities give our students real-world experience that will enhance their education and prepare them for meaningful careers in risk management and insurance.”
For more information about Faulkner University’s Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance, visit www.faulkner.edu/rmi/.
Get the latest insurance market updates and discover exclusive program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 22, 2025
Flash Flooding and Severe Thunderstorms Threaten the Plains to the East Coast
Multiple rounds of thunderstorms are sweeping across the Plains, Midwest, and mid-Atlantic this week, bringing flash flooding, damaging winds, and hail. The storms are forming along the northern edge of a persistent heat dome over the southern United States, which continues to provide the energy and moisture necessary for widespread severe weather.
Heat Dome Fuels Widespread Storm Activity
A sprawling heat dome has locked in oppressive temperatures across the South, and its periphery has become the focal point for thunderstorm development. Added tropical moisture from a former rainstorm over Louisiana has only intensified rainfall potential.
Over the weekend, a powerful complex of thunderstorms caused damaging wind gusts and flooding from Iowa to Illinois, with heavy rain reaching as far as the Washington, D.C., area. Early Monday morning, rainfall rates of 1–2 inches per hour impacted areas in and around St. Louis, Missouri, creating hazardous travel conditions. West-central Minnesota also saw storms capable of producing hail and strong winds.
Expected Rainfall and Flooding Potential
Rainfall totals through early this week are expected to exceed 2 inches across a broad swath of the Midwest, Appalachians, and mid-Atlantic. Within this zone, localized totals of 4-8 inches are likely, with the potential for up to 13 inches in the hardest-hit areas, including northeastern Missouri and far southern West Virginia.
West Virginia, which is already seeing one of its wettest Julys on record, faces additional risk. As thunderstorms repeatedly track over the same areas, the combination of saturated ground and rugged terrain could result in significant flash flooding. Narrow corridors of intense rainfall will be capable of producing high water levels in a short amount of time.
Continuing Threat Through the Week
The risk of severe weather will persist throughout much of the week as the heat dome remains firmly in place. On Monday, the Plains are expected to experience the greatest storm activity, shifting toward the Midwest by Tuesday.
In addition to flash flooding, thunderstorms may produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, and localized power outages. Travel disruptions, delays, and difficult road conditions are likely in areas of heavy rain.
Key Points
- Thunderstorms will remain active from the Plains to the mid-Atlantic throughout this week.
- Rainfall totals of 2–8 inches are expected, with isolated amounts up to 13 inches.
- Flash flooding, damaging winds, and hail are the primary hazards.
- The heat dome over the South continues to fuel unstable conditions and provide moisture for storms.
- The threat will shift eastward as the week progresses, with multiple rounds of storms possible.
With the atmosphere remaining primed for severe weather, conditions may change quickly. Monitoring local forecasts and official updates will be essential in tracking these storms' evolving impacts.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.
July 22, 2025
1823 Partners Launches With Multi-Billion-Dollar Asset Mandate From JAB Insurance
1823 Partners (US) LLC (“1823 Partners”), a new asset management firm specializing in insurance-focused investment strategies, today announced its official launch. The firm will manage a multi-billion-dollar asset mandate from JAB Insurance US Holdings, Inc. (“JAB Insurance”), initially concentrating on real estate, asset-backed finance, credit, and insurance solutions. 1823 Partners is a Registered Investment Adviser.
The firm was co-founded by Anant Bhalla, Joachim Creus, and Frank Engelen, with Bhalla leading as Chief Executive Officer. A veteran insurance executive and pioneer in insurance-focused asset management, Bhalla will guide the firm in blending rigorous asset and liability risk management with distinctive private market opportunities to create lasting value for clients and their policyholders.
1823 Partners will serve independent insurance companies and institutional investors, targeting superior risk-adjusted returns through differentiated investments. JAB Insurance portfolio entities will be the inaugural clients of 1823 Partners.
“I am energized to create a platform that supports independent insurance companies with tailored investment strategies that back real promises with real assets. By investing long-term insurance company policyholder resources across both public fixed income and bespoke private market opportunities—from real estate to specialty credit and asset-backed lending—we aim to provide predictable, durable cash flows with strong risk-adjusted returns. Our allocations, anchored in liability-driven investing and robust risk management, enable us to prioritize risk control while maximizing return per unit of risk,” said Bhalla.
Headquartered in Miami with an additional office in New York, 1823 Partners is assembling a team of professionals specializing in real estate, asset-backed finance, credit, and insurance solutions. The firm plans to expand into additional asset classes and grow to approximately 60 investment professionals by year-end.
These experts will focus on sourcing and structuring investments designed to deliver resilient, long-term returns. In addition to asset management, 1823 Partners will provide investment management and risk advisory services tailored to the unique needs of insurance companies.
Alongside Bhalla, the firm’s launch team includes several highly experienced professionals:
- James Hamalainen, Partner and Chief Operating Officer – formerly with American Equity Investment Life Holding Company (AEL), Brighthouse Financial, and Ameriprise Financial
- Ashok Vishnubhakta, Partner, Head of Commercial Credit – formerly with AEL, Allstate Investments, GE Capital, and Macquarie Capital
- Pankil Doshi, Partner, Head of Commercial Real Estate – formerly with Cerberus Capital Management, Deutsche Bank, and Matrix (an affiliate of Colony Capital)
- Chris Bauer, Managing Director, Fixed-Income Trading – formerly with Black Diamond Capital Management, Marble Ridge Capital, and Nokota Management
- Stuart Perowne, Managing Director, Equity Trading – formerly with Citigroup and Lazard
- Shawn Pierce, Managing Director, Asset-Backed Finance – formerly with AEL, Columbia Threadneedle Investments, UniCredit, and Capital One
- Steven Zhou, Managing Director, Hedging and Derivative Strategies – formerly with Lord Abbett, Deutsche Asset Management, and J.P. Morgan
Bhalla added, “We are fortunate to have access to remarkable, off-market investment opportunities driven by two factors: the quality of our clients’ insurance capital and the caliber of the investment talent we have assembled. As a long-term investor focused on attractive asset sectors, we are building a unified team and a vibrant culture with the mantra: ‘One Team, One Dream.’ We take pride in connecting main street insurance policyholder resources with main street borrowers—from consumers to commercial businesses—through credit, asset-backed, and real asset financing.”
About 1823 Partners 1823 Partners is a registered investment adviser conducting business as a differentiated asset management firm focused on long-term, insurance-first investment strategies. The firm supports independent insurance companies with tailored investment strategies that back real promises with real assets. 1823 Partners manages a growing portfolio of private market investments with the objective of generating compelling returns for insurance companies and their policyholders, as well as other long-term oriented institutional investors. The firm is headquartered in Miami and has an office in New York. For more information, please visit: www.1823.partners. Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.