London-headquartered UIB International has exited India after 15 years, selling its minority shareholding in UIB Insurance Brokers (India) to Edme Services, an affiliate of Samara Capital. The deal, completed alongside major shareholders Indorama SPL Group and Lucas & Mayo Group, signals the end of UIB’s direct operations in the Indian market while ensuring business continuity for clients.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| UIB India Founded | 2011 |
| Selling Entity | UIB International (London Holding) |
| Buyer | Edme Services Pvt. Ltd. (Samara Capital affiliate) |
| Majority Partners | Indorama SPL, Lucas & Mayo Group |
| Core Team Status | Retained by Edme |
| Reason | Strategic exit after review |
Established in 2011, UIB India grew into a respected intermediary in the Indian broking space, mainly covering specialty and corporate risks. Its parent, UIB International, is a global brokerage network serving clients across 85 countries. The recent transaction completes a strategic divestment process and marks UIB’s exit from direct Indian operations.
Deal Dynamics & Continuity
Samara Capital’s Edme Services acquired the minority stake alongside majority partners and will continue operating using UIB India’s core team. This ensures service continuity, maintains client relationships, and supports Edme’s strategy to scale insurance distribution pan‑India.
Strategic Implications
- For UIB Group: The exit reflects strategic global realignment, likely focusing resources elsewhere.
- For Samara & Edme: This move strengthens their foothold in Indian brokerage, positioning them for expansion in high-growth commercial lines.
- For Clients: Continued relationships under new ownership aim to minimize disruption while offering localised growth opportunities.
Related Regulatory Concerns
Earlier in 2025, UIB India was fined ₹1 crore by the IRDAI for delayed premium remittance—a regulatory action that added pressure for operational restructuring. The exit may also reflect a response to compliance challenges amid tightening oversight.
This development underscores growing consolidation in India’s insurance broking industry and spotlights private equity’s rising role. As PE-backed platforms expand, international players may recalibrate strategies or exit—demonstrating India’s evolving brokerage landscape.
With UIB drawing its curtains on 15 years in India, the baton passes to Edme and Samara Capital—a transition that encapsulates India’s changing insurance broking era and growing appetite for locally anchored operations.
The UIB exit highlights how India’s insurance market is evolving, with domestic capital and private equity increasingly taking center stage. While some global intermediaries step back, others are deepening their presence — as seen when Allianz Re-Enters India via Reinsurance Deal with Jio Financial, signalling a renewed global interest in India’s risk and reinsurance landscape.
