Ascent unveils new partnership in digital growth strategy

Ascent Underwriting, a cyber and specialty lines MGA and a founding partner of Optio Group, has entered into a partnership with Prowriters to enhance its US distribution reach as part of its digital growth strategy.

Ascent's flagship CyberPro 2.8 product has gone live on Prowriters’ Cyber IQ platform, following the integration of its proprietary underwriting platform Optio Connect.

ProWriters' platform allows agents and brokers to compare and access specialty insurance products from a range of carriers.

John Merchant, managing director, cyber & technology, North America at Ascent, said: “ProWriters has for some time offered one of the best platforms in the market and I am delighted to announce our partnership with them. The combined strength of Cyber IQ and Optio Connect platforms will further enhance our distribution capabilities.

“Being added to ProWriters’ scalable Cyber IQ platform allows Ascent to easily deliver customised cyber insurance solutions. It also provides the option to quickly add enhancements and additional coverages including tech E&O.”

Brian Thornton, CEO of ProWriters, added: "We are extremely pleased to welcome Ascent to our Cyber IQ platform, which joins Axis, Chubb, Hiscox, Tokio Marine HCC, CFC, At-Bay, Coalition, and Corvus. Ascent’s Cyber and Tech E&O proposition has enjoyed impressive growth for many years, propelled by its leading underwriting expertise, dedicated broker focus and innovative use of proprietary technology.”