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IDEX Consulting launches new M&A sell side offering for insurance brokers and MGAs

Fresh approach addresses critical gap in underserved insurance M&A sectorIDEX Consulting today unveiled its innovative M&A advisory service specifically designed for insurance brokers and MGAs, challenging the industry's current traditional transaction-focused model. The innovative approach introduces a thoughtful, long term methodology that transforms how insurers and brokers prepare for and execute successful exits.Breaking away from the industry's traditional transaction-only focus, IDEX's methodology involves working closely with businesses over a potential six to twelve month period, and beyond, to fundamentally grow their income and EBITDA, making them more appealing to potential buyers. “This is a M&A solution designed by brokers and MGAs for brokers and MGAs. What we have at IDEX is the ability to help brokers boost their growth and revenue, attract the best buyers in the market and prepare for a successful sale. We don't just broker deals, we're long-term partners committed to achieving maximum earn-out potential for sellers. Our unique combination of M&A expertise, talent acquisition capabilities, and deep understanding of insurance technology platforms creates value that conventional advisors simply cannot deliver”, says Andy Fairchild, CEO of M&A for IDEX Consulting.IDEX's comprehensive approach encompasses three distinct phases: thorough business preparation and optimisation, strategic buyer-seller matching leveraging their network of over 40,000 UK and international businesses, and crucial post-transaction support including talent acquisition, technology integration and organisational re-design. "Insurance brokers face unique challenges with sophisticated e-trading platforms and complex broking systems that we understand”, adds Fairchild. With over 200 years of combined M&A expertise, IDEX addresses the critical gap where insurance businesses have been underserved by traditional transaction-focused consultancies.The service launches immediately across UK and international markets.For more information go to: https://www.idex-ma.comNotes to editors About IDEX Consulting IDEX Consulting is an independent and innovative global talent, business and M&A growth consultancy. The business helps clients achieve their growth goals through M&A buy and sell side strategies, the acquisition of top tier talent, and marketing advisory across the UK, Europe, Middle East and US. Over the past few years IDEX M&A has introduced clients to over £1 billion GWP of opportunity and added over £500 million of enterprise value to firms. For more information contact, Marie Ponomarenko on 07425747232 and / or marie.ponomarenko@idexconsulting.com

IDEX Consulting launches new M&A sell-side focused strategy for financial services market

New proposition addresses critical gap in underserved financial services M&A sectorIDEX Consulting today announced the launch of its groundbreaking M&A advisory proposition, challenging the industry's traditional transaction-focused model with a comprehensive, long-term partnership approach that transforms how financial advice firms prepare for and execute successful exits.Unlike conventional M&A consultancies that concentrate solely on brokering deals, IDEX's new methodology involves working closely with businesses over a potential six-to-twelve-month period, and beyond, to fundamentally enhance their attractiveness to potential buyers before any transaction takes place."The financial services M&A market has been critically underserved for years. Many brokers simply focus on the transaction itself, leaving businesses unprepared for sale and often achieving suboptimal outcomes. We're changing that dynamic entirely with a long-term approach that helps firms identify improvements that boost growth and revenue and ultimately make them a more appealing prospect to buyers”, says James Salmon, Financial Services M&A Client Solutions Director at IDEX Consulting.IDEX's comprehensive approach encompasses three distinct phases: thorough business preparation and optimisation, strategic buyer-seller matching leveraging their network of over 40,000 UK and international businesses, and crucial post-transaction support including talent acquisition and organisational integration or re-design. “What further sets IDEX apart is our ability to help businesses hire top financial services talent, given our 20+ years reputation as a leading recruiter in the market. Plus, our unique marketing and branding solutions that help businesses strengthen their market position and attract top tier talent, customers and investors – there’s no other M&A consultancy in the market which offers this”, adds Salmon. With over 200 years of combined M&A expertise, IDEX's innovative approach ensures businesses are not only genuinely ready for sale but have the optimal chance of achieving maximum earn out sums, addressing a fundamental gap where proper sale preparation has been largely absent from the traditional brokering model.The new proposition launches immediately across UK and international markets.For more information go to: https://www.idex-ma.comNotes to editors About IDEX Consulting  IDEX Consulting is an independent and innovative global talent, business and M&A growth consultancy. The business helps clients achieve their growth goals through M&A buy and sell side strategies, the acquisition of top tier talent, and marketing advisory across the UK, Europe, Middle East and US. Over the last twelve months IDEX M&A has presented over £14 billion AUA of opportunity to buyers in the market and added over £500 million of enterprise value to firms. For more information contact, Marie Ponomarenko on 07425747232 and / or marie.ponomarenko@idexconsulting.com

M&A financial services market overview: opportunities for IFAs

IDEX Consulting recently sat down with James Salmon, M&A Financial Services Client Solutions Director, to discuss the current state of the M&A market, emerging opportunities for firms, and how leaders can position themselves to secure the best deals. With years of experience in the sector, James offers his insights into the trends shaping 2025 and how businesses can navigate the challenges ahead.How has the 2025 M&A market performed so far?The M&A market has seen steady growth, with deal volumes increasing by around 12% year-on-year, marking the highest rise since 2021. This optimism in 2025 has been fuelled by a rush to finalise deals ahead of changes to business asset disposal relief and unexpected capital gains tax hikes.In 2024, publicly disclosed deal values surged from £2.1 billion to £9.3 billion, and this positive momentum is expected to continue in 2025. Private equity interest in the IFA sector remains strong, alongside investment banks and regional firms aiming for national expansion.What trends can financial advice firms expect in 2025?Several key factors are shaping the market this year:Increased buyout options: Lifestyle IFAs are likely to see more interest in buyout options through share and asset purchase deals.Regulatory pressures: With the Consumer Duty and new laws driving stricter compliance, firms must adapt to evolving regulations.Private equity investment: Overseas private equity firms continue to target UK assets, with £7.8 billion worth of acquisitions reported in Q4 2024 by the ONS. PE firms are under pressure to deploy capital, creating a competitive environment.Technology and AI innovation: Acquiring businesses with AI capabilities offers a fast track to advanced tech adoption. In 2024, enterprise tech deals exceeded $30 billion, driven by PE investment.Retiring IFA workforce: With 50% of independent advice firm owners planning for retirement, succession planning is a key driver of acquisitions.Is now a good time to buy or sell?The market is active, with strong deal volumes and opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Regional buy-and-build strategies remain attractive, offering firms a way to diversify and expand their client offerings.For sellers, now is an opportune time to explore options. Despite some political and economic uncertainty, many businesses are leveraging economies of scale to drive growth. Consolidators are also becoming more prominent as they near the end of their PE investment cycles, exploring reinvestment and extension opportunities.What challenges will businesses face throughout the rest of 2025, and how can they prepare?Talent attraction: Finding skilled professionals in advisory, data, technology, and cybersecurity remains a challenge. Businesses should focus on strengthening their recruitment strategies and employer branding to attract top talent.FCA’s Change in Control process: Regulatory delays in the Change in Control process are frustrating buyers and sellers, with reviews now taking longer than the standard 60 days. This is particularly challenging for those aiming to complete deals before tax changes take effect.Consumer Duty impact: Acquisitions now require a more thoughtful approach to onboarding and integration to align with Consumer Duty regulations. Firms that prepare well will find smoother transitions and better ROI.What opportunities exist for buyers?Retiring advisors: With the average financial advisor aged 58, many are planning retirement, but only a third have succession plans in place.Market consolidation: Smaller firms are struggling with compliance costs, tech demands, and talent shortages, driving consolidation. M&A activity in wealth management hit record levels in 2023-2024, with average deal sizes growing from $1.8B AUM in 2022 to $2.3B AUM in 2024.Growth potential: The global wealth management market is projected to grow at a 9.2% CAGR by 2030. Acquisitions in niche areas like ESG and AI can help firms attract new clients and expand into new markets.Technology integration: Firms with strong digital platforms see 30-40% higher productivity per advisor. Addressing tech integration challenges early can provide a significant competitive edge.What opportunities exist for vendors?The market is currently favourable for sellers, with high demand from consolidators, private equity firms, and larger wealth management organisations.Buyers are increasingly focused on Consumer Duty compliance, offering vendors greater security for client continuity. This, combined with buyers’ scale, capital, and operational efficiency, creates an attractive proposition for vendors, their teams, and their clients.How can sellers stand out to buyers?Plan ahead: Understanding your business’s inner workings and addressing potential challenges early can minimise disruption during integration and improve transaction success.Conduct a SWOT analysis: Assess your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to identify areas for improvement and mitigate risks.Seek expert advice: Partner with a trusted broker who understands the market and can connect you with the right buyer.Prepare for due diligence: Anticipate the depth of information buyers will need and ensure you’re ready to provide it.Define your trade-offs: Know what’s non-negotiable for your clients, team, and long-term goals to find the best match.Why partner with IDEX M&A?At IDEX M&A, we take a different approach. As independent advisors, we provide impartial guidance tailored to your values and long-term objectives.Our focus isn’t just on completing a sale or acquisition, it’s about supporting the financial, lifestyle, and personal goals of everyone involved. With expertise in talent management and marketing, we also help businesses grow post-integration through innovative strategies.Our M&A team brings over 2-- years of combined experience and a network of 40,000+ businesses. We’ve introduced £14 billion AUA of opportunities across the financial services sector and work with legal, financial, tax, and regulatory specialists to support every stage of a transaction.For a confidential chat about the M&A market or to explore your options, reach out to James Salmon, our financial services M&A consultant.

How IDEX Consulting accelerated growth for Morton Insurance Brokers through a strategic acquisition

BackgroundMorton Insurance Brokers, an independent London-based firm specialising in minicab and Private Hire insurance for PCO and Taxi drivers across the UK, faced a critical challenge. Founder Adrian Morton who was planning to retire in the coming years, was searching for the right buyer to take on his business, ensuring it’s legacy and positive reputation. The ideal buyer needed to have a strong status in the market, offer equal or better products and services to customers, and provide Adrian with confidence and security in passing on his business.Key requirements for the buyer included:Maintaining exceptional customer serviceEnsuring job security and career growth for employeesFacilitating a seamless transition for staff and clients“It can be a lonely world as an independent business owner, so it was nice to have someone to bounce ideas off and support me through the process,” Adrian shared.Our SolutionIDEX Consulting’s specialist M&A team took the time to thoroughly understand Adrian’s business model, vision, and future goals. After carefully assessing the business’ needs and priorities, the team introduced Adrian to Specialist Risk Group (SRG) just one week after their initial conversation."IDEX listened to my needs and took time to understand what I wanted on a personal level as well as what I wanted to do with my business. When I spoke to SRG, they were already aware of what I wanted and were able to accommodate. Kim kept me in the loop at every stage and made the process comfortable,” Adrian added.The team’s approach centered on:Gaining a deep understanding of Adrian’s personal and professional goalsUtilising their extensive industry connectionsProviding transparent, supportive, and consistent guidance throughout the processWhy Adrian Chose IDEXSeveral factors made IDEX the perfect partner for Adrian:Expert, impartial guidance"As IDEX are independent, you can trust they are supporting you for genuine reasons, no hidden agenda. If I ever had any queries or needed to discuss anything as part of the process, they were there to support me, without charge too. I know similar companies charge the seller for support,” Adrian explained.Industry expertise and networkWith over 200 years of combined M&A experience and a network of 40,000 businesses across the UK, Europe, US, and the Middle East, IDEX’s consultants have built strong, reliable relationships with Managing Directors, CEOs, and Private Equity firms actively seeking acquisitions or sales.Personalised and empathetic approachIDEX’s consultants took extra care to understand Adrian’s business and personal objectives, ensuring the right match was made.The resultThe acquisition was successfully completed in approximately seven months, delivering excellent outcomes for both Morton Insurance Brokers and Specialist Risk Group. The deal not only expanded Morton Insurance’s customer base and created new opportunities but also provided Adrian with greater personal freedom and a clear path to retirement."The acquisition has given me some freedom which I never had before as a full-time business owner. If I’m away from business or out of the business for some time, I know my clients and employees are being looked after properly. I am looking forward to working towards full retirement over the next few years," Adrian concluded.If you’re considering growth opportunities, need specialist M&A advice, or want insights into the M&A market, don’t hesitate to reach out to our M&A consultants, who are ready to assist.

Andy Fairchild appointed CEO of M&A at IDEX Consulting

Former Broker Network CEO to elevate M&A services to new heightsAndy Fairchild, a seasoned insurance professional and former CEO of Broker Network, has joined IDEX Consulting to spearhead its M&A division.Renowned for his innovative mindset and people-focused approach to deal-making, Andy has earned a strong reputation within the broker community.“I’m excited to join IDEX at such a pivotal moment in broking industry. Our team is not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to the values and ethics that truly support brokers in their growth and sale strategies. As an independent and impartial consultancy, IDEX has a unique opportunity to approach M&A differently, with integrity, trust, and due diligence at the core of our solutions,” said Andy.Andy’s extensive career includes leadership roles at Applied Systems, AXA Insurance, Footman James, and several InsurTech companies. During his tenure at Broker Network, he achieved a significant increase in EBITDA, with half of the growth produced from organic efforts and the other half from an ambitious M&A strategy.Matt Green, CEO of IDEX Consulting, commented: “We’re thrilled to have Andy join us on this journey. His vast experience, combined with our innovative business growth platform, will unlock exciting opportunities for our clients.”In addition to his executive roles, Andy has served as a non-executive board director for various organisations. Most recently, he has been advising companies such as Acrisure, CGI, Zing365, and Partners Group & Nordic Capital Private Equity on growth strategies and operating models, with a particular focus on technology, data, and M&A.For more information, visit IDEX M&A. If you’re seeking support with your business growth or sale strategy, reach out to one of our M&A specialists.

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DATA DRIVEN RESEARCH AND ADVICE

IDEX Consulting launches new M&A sell side offering for insurance brokers and MGAs

IDEX Consulting launches new M&A sell-side focused strategy for financial services market

M&A financial services market overview: opportunities for IFAs

How IDEX Consulting accelerated growth for Morton Insurance Brokers through a strategic acquisition

Andy Fairchild appointed CEO of M&A at IDEX Consulting

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