Market Watch - Networks: Opening connections

Emmanuel Kenning argues that broker networks are becoming more popular, though managers need to think carefully about the offerings available through them before committing their firms.

There are many reasons that brokers look to a network. For some it is a question of buying power, for others access to markets; some look for help with marketing and compliance, while others focus on human resources and finance support. Nick Houghton, managing director at Broker Network, believes a good network can deliver on any of these, a crucial platform for success in such straitened economic times. He explains: "Brokers are finding it tough and insurers are making it more difficult to