Howden acquires 68.3% stake in Kyoto-based Holos Holdings

The group now employs more than 450 people since entering the market in 2024.

Howden has acquired a 68.3% majority stake in Holos Holdings Co., Ltd., a Kyoto-based retail insurance broker with over 400 employees and 20 offices across Japan. 

Founded in 2001 by Kei Horii, formerly of Sony Life Insurance, Holos provides insurance solutions to individuals, SMEs, and corporates across both life and non-life segments.

The acquisition expands Howden’s presence in Japan, where the group now employs more than 450 people since entering the market in 2024. 

This latest move follows a series of strategic developments by Howden Japan in 2024, including the launch of Howden Re Japan, a partnership with Keystone ILS Capital, and the acquisition of retail broker Foresight Group.

Kei Horii, CEO of Holos, said the partnership combines Holos’ life insurance expertise with Howden’s global capabilities in corporate general insurance. 

Kentaro Tada, CEO of Howden Japan, noted that both companies share a similar culture and commitment to client-focused solutions.