Howden broadens crypto insurance push with new Web3 risk ecosystem

Howden has expanded its digital asset proposition with the launch of a new Web3 risk ecosystem, designed to combine crypto theft insurance with pre-emptive cybersecurity and recovery services.

The broker said the move marked the next stage of its push into digital asset risk, shifting away from a purely reactive insurance model towards a broader lifecycle approach focused on prevention, resilience and recovery.

This ecosystem builds on Howden’s crypto theft insurance and recovery product, launched in 2025 alongside Lawrence Stephens.

The enhanced offering links clients with a panel of specialist providers covering areas such as forensic investigation, legal advisory, asset tracing, security infrastructure and restructuring support.

Freddie Palmer, head of digital assets and blockchain at Howden, said the broker had focused on creating “stable capacity, broader coverage and more cost efficient outcomes” for clients operating in the digital asset market.

Prevention focus

The launch reflects a wider trend across the insurance market towards integrating risk prevention services alongside traditional coverage, particularly in cyber and emerging technology sectors.

Rather than only responding after a theft or cyber incident has occurred, Howden say the ecosystem would allow organisations to identity operational vulnerabilities earlier and improve resilience before losses materialise.

Palmer said: “As the digital asset ecosystem evolves, it’s critical that insureds have access not only to responsive recovery support, but also to leading pre-emptive vendors.

“By expanding our network, we’re enabling clients to tap into global expertise before and after an incident, strengthening resilience across the entire risk lifecycle.”

Lawrence Stephens will continue to support the offering through blockchain forensic analysis and recovery work, including tracing stolen assets and liaising with exchanges.

Matt Green, head of blockchain, digital assets and technology disputes at Lawrence Stephens, said: “Effective recovery requires a combination of expertise, including blockchain forensic analysis, OSINT and active engagement with exchanges and other stakeholders to trace, freeze, or seize stolen assets.”