Within the London Market, what is a broker called that has contact with the insurer?

In the context of the London Market, a broker that has direct contact with the insurer is known as a wholesale broker. Wholesale brokers work primarily with insurance companies and are responsible for negotiating terms and conditions of insurance policies on behalf of retail brokers or large corporate clients. They typically have access to multiple markets and can provide a variety of insurance products that may not be available to retail brokers.

Wholesale brokers play a crucial role in the distribution of insurance in the London Market, bridging the gap between retail intermediaries, which serve clients directly, and underwriting entities that provide insurance coverage. By leveraging their relationships and expertise, wholesale brokers can assist in placing risks in the most suitable markets.

In contrast, a retail intermediary is generally more focused on dealing directly with clients rather than with insurers, while a retail broker specifically works on behalf of clients to find suitable coverage from various insurers. The term "home market broker" is not commonly used in this context and does not accurately describe that relationship. This distinction underscores the specific role that wholesale brokers play in the broader insurance landscape.