Insurance Business America has unveiled its 2025 5-Star Wholesale Brokers and MGAs report, revealing a sharp uptick in retail broker reliance on wholesalers and MGAs amid the continued rise of the US excess and surplus (E&S) lines market. According to this year’s survey, 33% of respondent brokers said they now conduct over half of their business through wholesale partners—up significantly from 23.35% last year.
The growth is underscored by record-setting premiums. The Wholesale & Specialty Insurance Association (WSIA)reported a 17.4% jump in surplus lines direct premium written in 2023, reaching an unprecedented $115.6 billion, following a 2022 total of $98.5 billion. Meanwhile, investment firm Conning noted the E&S sector has experienced a 21% compound annual growth rate over the past five years, outpacing the overall property and casualty market thanks to regulatory flexibility and new tech tools like AI.
This momentum has elevated standout firms such as Monarch E&S, Wholesure, and Gorst & Compass, each earning 5-Star status for their performance across 10 criteria including product range, tech innovation, and ability to place niche risks. Monarch E&S president Yiana Stavrakis emphasized the firm’s commitment to tailoring solutions for mid-market clients and exploring niche programs—most notably, a custom personal umbrella product developed amid market retrenchment. Wholesure, formed in 2024 through a merger of agencies, impressed with its proprietary digital platforms and aggressive specialist recruitment. Gorst & Compass, which has experienced organic growth of more than 25% for two consecutive years, continues to thrive on the strength of its California roots, carrier partnerships, and API-driven quoting tech.
