A European boutique managing general agent has launched a new marine underwriting business backed by a panel of insurance partners including Bermudian-based SiriusPoint and Sompo International as well as France-headquartered Axeria IARD.

Alta Signa Europe BV said the new unit would focus on core marine lines of business.

The company said the team was led by Francesco Dubbioso, head of Technical Underwriting for Marine, based in Genoa, Italy.

Mr Dubbioso, who joined Alta Signa in September, has a broad range of insurance leadership experience in a career spanning more than 20 years, most recently as chief executive of Mediterranea Underwriting.

He said: “The European marine market is expected to present niche growth opportunities in 2024 and beyond for those MGAs who are agile enough to address the unique challenges in this sector.

“In an environment where differentiation and relevance are key, I am extremely excited by the opportunities this presents for nimble businesses such as the one we have now assembled at Alta Signa. I can't wait to start this new venture with a team of highly motivated experts.”