Captive Basics

What Captive Insurers Need To Know about ILS, Alternative Capital, and Reinsurance

September 11, 2017

As Hurricane Irma has left its mark on Florida, and Texas continues the cleanup from Hurricane Harvey, what do these catastrophes imply for the insurance-linked securities (ILS), alternative capital, and reinsurance markets? Read More


The 3 Categories of Risk Retention Groups

March 28, 2017

A panel discussion on corporate governance of Risk Retention Group (RRG) at the 2017 Captive Insurance Companies Association (CICA) Conference provided a useful way to categorize RRGs. RRGs can be divided into one of three categories based on whether there is a sponsor and, if so, the type of sponsor. Read More


What Is a Reciprocal Insurance Company and How Is It Taxed?

March 1, 2017

A reciprocal insurance company is an arrangement through which mutual promises of the participants are exchanged with respect to their insurance risks. While not a separately incorporated company, it is characterized as an insurance company for federal tax purposes. Read More


Why Do Captives Get Credit Ratings?

February 27, 2017

While the need for ratings by traditional insurers is obvious, it is not so apparent for captives. This article explains why some captive insurance companies go through the credit rating process. Read More


The Basics of the 831(b) Election for Captives

January 25, 2017

Section 831(b) of the Internal Revenue Code may be elected by qualifying captives to exempt the captive insurer's underwriting profits from federal income tax. This article discusses the prerequisites that must be met as well as the transactions of interest reporting requirements. Read More