MarshBerry Releases 2024 M&A Year in Review: A Landmark Year for Insurance Brokerage Deal Activity

MarshBerry, a leading investment banking and consulting firm serving the insurance distribution and wealth management industries, has released its 2024 M&A Year in Review, a comprehensive analysis of one of the most pivotal years in insurance brokerage mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

2024 was defined by a wave of transformational mega-deals, including Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.’s $13.45 billion acquisition of AssuredPartners, Aon PLC’s $13 billion acquisition of NFP Corp., and Marsh McLennan’s $7.75 billion purchase of McGriff Insurance Services. These transactions didn’t just make headlines — they reshaped the competitive landscape of the industry and set the tone for what lies ahead.

“Our goal is to help firms in insurance distribution, retirement, and wealth advisory amplify value and chart a strategic course toward a future rife with opportunities,” said John Wepler, MarshBerry Chairman & CEO. “As the landscape evolves, firms must either build the infrastructure to remain competitive or consider partnerships that drive scale and long-term success.”

In total, the U.S. recorded 847 announced M&A transactions in 2024 — the third-highest volume on record and a 5% increase over 2023. At the same time, the U.S. property and casualty sector reported a remarkable rebound, posting $4.1 billion in underwriting profit through Q3, compared to a $32.1 billion loss during the same period in 2023.

“As industry consolidation accelerates, leaders must think beyond transaction value and consider how they differentiate and deliver in a more competitive, client-driven marketplace,” added Phil Trem, MarshBerry President of Financial Advisory. “The firms that will thrive are those who make strategic investments in talent, data, and specialization — or partner wisely to accelerate growth.”

The report offers proprietary data, key market trends, and expert analysis to help firms navigate a shifting environment. As market volatility increases, the demand for insurance distribution firms remains high — with buyer demand still exceeding seller supply by two to three times. MarshBerry anticipates this momentum will carry into 2025, where early deal activity is already pacing 25% ahead of last year.

The complimentary report is available for download here.

If you have questions about how MarshBerry helps firms create their path forward, in the U.S. or across Europe, please contact us today.

MarshBerry – Helping Clients Learn, Improve & Realize Value

MarshBerry is a global leader in financial services and consulting dedicated to helping insurance brokerages, and firms in the wealth management industry, achieve sustained growth and value for every stage of ownership. With a legacy spanning over 40 years, MarshBerry offers an extensive suite of services, including Investment Banking (Merger & Acquisition Advisory; Capital Raising), Financial Consulting (Strategic Planning; Valuations; Perpetuation Planning), Organic Growth Consulting (Leadership, Sales & Talent Solutions), Executive Peer Exchange, Agency Network and Market Intelligence and Performance Benchmarking. For more information, visit www.MarshBerry.com.

Investment banking services in the USA offered through MarshBerry Capital, LLC, Member FINRA and SIPC, and an affiliate of Marsh, Berry & Company, LLC, 28601 Chagrin Blvd, Suite 400, Woodmere, OH 44122 (440) 354-3230.