Venture funding

The insurance world was caught by surprise last October when Google’s Capital G investment arm announced a substantial investment in Applied Systems.

Venture-capital investment in the insurtech market remains on a solid pace, with more mature companies emerging as leaders.

Manulife, Sun Life and Industrial Alliance chipped in nearly $300 million to help the MaRS discovery district pay back a government loan.

The star-studded funding round includes money from funds associated with Jay-Z, Kevin Durant and Robert Downey Jr., indicating insurtech's broadening appeal.

Business value is being generated by many startups – and no insurer is going to walk away from that.

The digital giant's involvement with an Indian insurtech doesn't mean it will be selling policies soon, but does give insurers something to think about.

The company has signed on with three companies in 2018, seeking early traction and a strong team., says business development VP.

The insurer set up an innovation lab in 2016 with SVP of Commercial Auto Kim Garland at the helm, but also keeps a sharp eye out for transformation occurring outside company walls by insurtechs.

AI promises to disrupt insurance and to provide major competitive advantage. The result is a flood of investments for leading players.

Life insurer also announces a brand new venture capital investment fund, led by its chief digital office.

Rather than looking to innovate on products, startups in life insurance concentrate on distribution as a way to improve the sector, say Accenture panelists.

Midwestern insurer creates accelerator and venture capital fund intended to build up Milwaukee's startup community.

The life carrier is keen on finding the startups that will define insurance user experience and distribution in the future, says managing director Doug Russell.

The insurtech will use additional Series B funding to expand product development and services for its customers.

The division of XL Catlin, whose insurtech portfolio includes smart-device company Notion, seeks exceptional management teams in its ventures.

Total funding activity is up compared to Q1 2017 and from the same time last year.

Jonathan Larsen joins the Chinese insurer after 18 years at the banking giant.