Howden has acquired a 68.3% stake in Holos Holdings, a retail insurance broker headquartered in Kyoto, Japan.  

The move is a continuation of Howden’s expansion in the Japanese market, which began with its establishment in the country in 2024. 

Holos Holdings, founded in 2001 by Kei Horii, a former Sony Life Insurance executive, has grown to employ more than 400 individuals across its 20 locations throughout Japan. 

Holos Holdings CEO Kei Horii said: “For the past 25 years, Holos has grown its business with the strong support of our employees and clients.  

“By combining Holos’ deep experience in the life insurance sector with Howden’s global resources and advanced expertise in the corporate general insurance field, we aim to grow into a trusted and valued insurance group, even more loved by our clients.” 

Howden Japan now employs more than 450 staff members.  

The move is aimed at broadening the service offerings, covering both life and non-life insurance segments for private individuals, SMEs and larger corporations. 

Howden CEO David Howden stated: “Holos has incredible know-how and like us they have a rich history in the market. And joining forces now gives us strength-in-depth across Japan, enabling us to provide individuals, SMEs, corporates, and insurers with a full suite of services from reinsurance to retail.  

“This is a transformational move for us, and it shows that our commitment to this dynamic market is truly for the long-term.” 

The transaction with Holos Holdings follows a series of initiatives undertaken by Howden Japan in 2024, including the establishment of Howden Re Japan, a partnership with Keystone ILS Capital, and the acquisition of the Foresight Group, which marked Howden’s entry into the Japanese retail insurance market.