Amlin provides capacity for new London-based MGA

Cyber risk is a growing threat

New managing general agent (MGA) Ascent Underwriting has been launched to cover emerging cyber risks.

The Amlin-backed MGA will target clients ranging from micro businesses to international corporations.

Ascent will be working with London Market brokers and will specialise in writing coverage for non-tangible risk including cloud computing, data privacy, network interruption, professional liability and intellectual property perils.

CyberPro, Ascent’s first product suite, is primarily aimed at the US, UK, Canadian and European markets, and has been tailored to conform to specific and evolving regulation and legislation within each territory. Coverage is offered on a modular basis and includes comprehensive cyber risk protection with professional services cover. Additional product lines are also scheduled for launch throughout 2013.

The Ascent team is led by directors Gareth Tungatt, previously underwriting manager technology risks at Barbican Syndicate, and David Umbers, a senior partner at Lloyd’s broker Safeonline.

Tungatt said: “Client demand for emerging cyber risk cover is growing rapidly as it becomes less of an optional purchase for businesses of all sizes. We intend to support these businesses and keep Ascent at the forefront of the market by continually developing innovative insurance products for both recognised risks and risks that are beginning to manifest as major threats to businesses.”