Brokers

Having raised nearly 20 billion yen ($175 million) in an offering that was priced at the top of its advertised range, got off to a bad start -- the biggest first-day decline in more than two decades for a company that raised at least $150 million. Daiwa Securities Co. and Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities Co. were the lead managers for the listing.

Willis Towers Watson Plc is adding four new members to its board after activist investors pushed for changes at the insurance brokerage following the collapse of a $30 billion planned sale to Aon Plc.

Insurance blockchain working group The Institutes RiskStream Collaborative has partnered with Trustlayer to build out an insurance verification proof of concept.

Activist investor Starboard Value disclosed a new position in Willis Towers Watson Plc Thursday, and said it believes the insurance broker could nearly double its share price in the next three years.

Tamara Simpkins Franklin is new Chief Digital, Data, and Analytics Officer for the brokerage effective October 1.

It is the first carrier to partner with BrokerTech Ventures

Insurance policies typically sold through face-to-face channels require intense advice and demand creation. Insurers must take steps now to adapt to the new landscape.

The startups selected will gain access to engagement and distribution offerings through BrokerTech Ventures’ nine owners and partners.

Launch of Des Moines-based BrokerTech Ventures shows distributors increasingly interested in digitalization.

Gallagher maintains a client book with commissions and fees exceeding $3 million annually while also teaching and mentoring.