Howden stock market float plans are gaining momentum as the British insurance giant looks to finalise a major US acquisition. The deal could pave the way for a £23.2bn public listing, positioning Howden as a dominant force in the global insurance market.
A £7.73bn US Takeover in the Works
According to Sky News, Howden is in the final stages of securing a £7.73bn ($10bn) acquisition of Risk Strategies, a leading US private insurance broker and risk management adviser. The deal is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, marking one of Howden’s biggest moves in the US market.
This strategic acquisition is backed by Kelso, a US private equity firm, and is expected to strengthen Howden’s global footprint. Reports suggest the deal could be partly financed by a £3.1bn ($4bn) share sale, reinforcing Howden’s financial position ahead of a potential public offering.
Stock Market Float Valued at £23bn
Following the takeover, industry experts predict that Howden could pursue a stock market flotation, valuing the business at over £23.2bn ($30bn). This is expected to take place between 2026 and 2027, depending on market conditions.
Sources indicate that Mubadala, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investment fund, and Hg Capital, an existing Howden shareholder, could each invest £1.5bn ($2bn) to support the deal. These investments would further boost Howden’s valuation, strengthening its standing as a major global insurance player.
Barclays and Morgan Stanley are reportedly advising Howden on the transaction, while Evercore is representing Kelso and Risk Strategies.
A British Insurance Success Story
Howden’s rapid expansion comes on the back of strong financial growth. Founder David Howden recently described his firm as a “phenomenal British success story”, emphasising its commitment to the London insurance market.
In a recent interview with City AM, he highlighted Howden’s £1.6bn investment into the UK over the past four years, where it employs more than 7,000 people. He stressed the importance of the insurance sector to the UK economy, calling it a key driver of GDP growth.
Breaking the £3bn Revenue Barrier
Howden’s financial success has been driven by double-digit organic growth, helping it surpass the £3bn revenue milestone in the last financial year. This robust performance has strengthened investor confidence, setting the stage for its upcoming stock market float.
With a major US acquisition on the horizon and backing from top-tier investors, Howden is positioning itself as a global insurance powerhouse.
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