Captive Basics

Benchmarking a captive insurance company requires more than reviewing the bottom line. Owners and boards should monitor reserve adequacy, retention rates, underwriting standards, governance practices, and dividend policies. These benchmarks help determine whether a captive is performing effectively or falling short of its long-term financial and strategic goals. Read More

Understanding captive insurance financial statements helps owners and boards assess reserves, liquidity, surplus, and underwriting performance. This article explains what nonaccountants should focus on when evaluating a captive's solvency, capital strength, and long-term sustainability. Read More

Insurance-linked securities (ILS) are financial derivatives based on insured loss events, allowing insurers to transfer risk to capital market investors, offering diversification and potential better returns. Read More

This article explores the role of the board of directors in captive insurance governance. It outlines core responsibilities including financial and actuarial oversight, regulatory compliance, risk management, fiduciary duties, and strategic alignment, emphasizing how effective board engagement supports long-term captive stability and regulatory confidence. Read More

Under the right circumstances, a captive can provide myriad benefits and, increasingly, mid-to-large firms are looking to form or join a captive insurance company. Find out how captive insurance companies operate, the different types of captives, and five key questions to ask when considering whether to form a captive. Read More