Video Q&A: Shaun Hooper, Close Brothers Premium Finance

 

After a period of significant regulatory scrutiny and market change, what’s next for premium finance providers, brokers and customers?

In the latest Insurance Age video, Shaun Hooper, CEO, Close Brothers Premium Finance, tells content director Jonathan Swift about the key decisions that shaped the business over the past 18 months – and how those choices position it for the future.

Hooper explains the rationale behind introducing a commercial customer consent requirement in late 2024, why that approach was later withdrawn, and what the experience revealed about balancing regulatory risk, customer outcomes and broker relationships.

The conversation also explores the decision to scale back parts of the personal lines portfolio, the implications of the Financial Conduct Authority premium finance market review, and how the business is adapting its strategy following a period of turbulence.

Hooper also shares his perspective on how the premium finance market will evolve from 2026 onwards, including the role of regulation, technology and broker partnerships in driving sustainable growth.

Among the discussion points:

• Close Brothers Premium Finance’s stance on consent requirements
• Lessons learned from navigating regulatory uncertainty
• The strategic rationale behind changes to personal lines lending
• What the FCA’s premium finance review means in practice
• How the market is set to evolve in the coming years

 

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