A new specialist lines underwriting agency, Amalfi Underwriting, has opened in London and will be headed up by Peter Smith formerly of Markel International.

Amalfi will underwrite $25m of premium income in its first year of operation.

The company will focus on a diverse ‘Specialty Lines' portfolio.

This portfolio will include all classes of financial lines insurances and worldwide multi line and commercial programmes. Specialist reinsurance classes will include political risks, credit and surety.

Amalfi said the underwriting capital will be provided by both QBE European Operations and Limit Syndicates.