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While July typically brings a seasonal dip in overall activity, it was anything but idle for several industry leaders.
Most of the month’s headline news came in the form of acquisitions, as key players doubled down on growth through integration.
From Nationwide’s $1.25 billion expansion in stop loss to Gallagher and Marsh McLennan Agency strengthening their regional positions, M&A was the dominant story this month, offering a clear look at where their respective industries are heading despite the summer slowdown.
Nationwide Completes $1.2B Acquisition of Allstate's Employer Stop Loss Business
July launched with big news: Nationwide completed its $1.25 billion acquisition of Allstate’s employer stop loss business.
The deal, initially announced at the beginning of this year, integrates the division into the newly formed Nationwide Group Benefits segment.
It’s a strategic move to strengthen the company’s portfolio and position it as a leader in the growing stop loss insurance market, primarily targeting small employers.
CEO Kirt Walker said the acquisition will expand Nationwide’s capabilities, specialized expertise, and partnerships.
“As a company committed to protecting people, businesses, and futures with extraordinary care, enhancing our employer stop loss segment helps us continue to meet the needs of business owners today and into the future,” added Walker.
Lindsey Murray, former COO of Allstate Health, will lead the new segment, bringing deep industry experience and a strong track record in employee benefits.
Read the full press release here: Nationwide Completes Acquisition of Allstate Employer Stop Loss Business for $1.25 Billion
Marsh McLennan Agency Grows Regional Footprint with Excel Insurance
Only a day later, on July 2, Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA) acquired Excel Insurance, an independent agency based in Medley, Florida, specializing in property and casualty coverage for small businesses and individuals.
MMA Florida CEO Doug Bishop welcomed the move as part of its commitment to growing its services in that region.
Echoing this forward-looking approach, Excel President Jacob Pared added, “I am proud of the growth Excel has achieved in just five years. Joining MMA is the next step in our mission to deliver clients the solutions they need to thrive via access to global resources and industry knowledge while simultaneously deepening the team of local experts available.”
Pared and all Excel Insurance employees will join MMA in its existing Doral office, though the companies have not disclosed the acquisition’s financial terms.
Read the full press release here: Marsh McLennan Agency Acquires Excel Insurance
Addition Wealth Launches AI-Driven Financial Wellness Platform for Enterprises
Amid a busy month of M&A activity, Addition Wealth makes its mark with a forward-looking product launch.
The fintech firm has unveiled a new AI-powered, B2B financial wellness platform for large enterprises, including insurance providers, asset managers, and retirement firms.
Tailored to align with unique business goals, the solution helps strengthen engagement with end users by offering a personalized experience, anticipating life events, and recommending financial solutions at the right moment.
Individuals gain access to a suite of tools, interactive education, and direct support from financial professionals to help them navigate finance milestones, from retirement planning to student debt repayment.
“By partnering with organizations with significant distribution, we’re able to reach, impact, and improve the lives of millions of individuals,” said Ana Mahony, CEO & Founder of Addition Wealth.
Mahony also explains that the AI-powered platform is flexible and configurable for both the business and the user, and it matches each person’s unique situation with the tools and insights they need.
The platform is already live in-market with Fortune 500 financial institutions.
Read more here: Addition Wealth Announces AI-Powered B2B Financial Wellness Platform For Enterprises
Lyra Health Expands Whole-Family Mental Health Care with Bend Health Acquisition
In another July acquisition, Lyra Health, a leading mental health benefits provider, has acquired Bend Health, a pioneer in pediatric mental health care.
With this deal, Lyra’s Pediatric Center of Excellence will add Bend Health’s neuropsychological testing services and youth high-acuity care.
Lyra Health’s enhanced support for children and families comes amid a growing youth mental health crisis. The company will strengthen its pediatric and neurodiversity capabilities with specialized providers, neuropsychological evaluations, and virtual intensive outpatient care.
Leaders from both companies endorsed the partnership, stressing a shared mission to deliver personalized, outcome-driven care that meets families through every stage of life.
Read the full press release here: Lyra Health Acquires Bend Health, Expanding Whole Family Mental Health Care
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Acquires Equinox Agency to Strengthen Its Employee Benefits
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has acquired Equinox Agency, LLC, a Pennsylvania-based employee health and benefits consulting firm.
This final acquisition caps off a month defined by consolidation and strategic growth.
Equinox, led by Thomas Groves and Dan Gagnier, will remain in its current location but operate under Gallagher’s Northeast region.
Gallagher Chairman and CEO J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr. highlighted Equinox’s strong client service reputation and the acquisition’s role in expanding Gallagher’s benefits consulting capabilities and growing their regional footprint.
The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Read the full press release here: Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Acquires The Equinox Agency, LLC
Written by tamara jovanovska
Content Writer at Shortlister
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