Sands Point Risk announced the acquisition of Launch Environmental Underwriters, a specialized provider of environmental general liability insurance solutions focused on complex risks across the energy, infrastructure, construction, chemical, M&A, and industrial sectors. The acquisition marks the largest transaction in Sands Point’s history and advances the company’s strategy of building a diversified managing general agent (MGA) platform in high-growth specialty insurance markets.
Following the acquisition, Sands Point’s combined gross written premium (GWP) will surpass $250 million, reflecting the company’s rapid expansion since its launch just over two years ago. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Launch Environmental will become the foundation of Sands Point’s environmental practice, adding specialized underwriting expertise in a market experiencing sustained growth and increasing complexity. The acquisition also strengthens Sands Point’s position in the MGA market as it continues to expand into additional specialty insurance verticals.
In conjunction with the transaction, Sands Point said it is launching new underwriting programs in Political Violence and Terrorism (PVT), Aviation, and Directors and Officers (D&O) liability insurance. The company already operates underwriting programs in Representations & Warranties, Tax Liability, Construction, and Medical Stop Loss insurance.
Launch Environmental’s integration into Sands Point is expected to provide the underwriting business with expanded operational scale, broader market reach, and access to additional carrier and broker relationships while continuing to focus on environmental liability underwriting.
The companies emphasized shared entrepreneurial cultures, underwriting performance, and relationships with retail and wholesale brokers as key factors behind the transaction.
KEY QUOTES:
“Bringing Launch Environmental onto the Sands Point platform is a transformative moment for our business. In just over two years, we have built a dynamic and entrepreneurial organization, growing organically, launching new programs, and executing strategic acquisitions. This transaction not only accelerates that momentum but also underscores Sand Point’s strength and its appeal to complementary organizations and individuals seeking to join our platform.
This milestone is a strong signal to the market. Surpassing $250 million in GWP reflects both the strength of our platform and the confidence that underwriting teams, carrier partners, and clients have in Sands Point. We see significant opportunity ahead, not only to continue growing organically, but also to partner with best-in-class underwriting teams and businesses looking for a platform like ours.”
Dennis Kearns, Chief Executive Officer, Sands Point Risk
“Sands Point has built an impressive platform in a remarkably short period of time. Their vision, resources, and entrepreneurial culture make them an ideal partner for our team and our clients. We are excited to join forces and expand our reach, while continuing to deliver specialized underwriting solutions in the environmental market.”
John O’Brien, Chief Executive Officer, Launch Environmental
“John O’Brien and the team at Launch Environmental are consummate professionals who have built an industry-leading track record. We are proud to support the company joining Sands Point, which offers a proven platform for growth and scale. Under Dennis Kearns’ leadership, Sands Point has quickly established itself as a best-in-class MGA positioned for continued success, and I wish the team all the best moving forward.”
Erik Matson, Chairman, Bridgehaven Europe Specialty Ltd. And Executive Chairman, Launch Underwriters LLC
