Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer advises UBS on Zurich's £8.2 billion takeover of Beazley plc

Leading global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer has advised UBS, as a financial adviser to Zurich, on its recommended £8.2 billion all-cash offer for the entire issued share capital of Beazley plc.

Zurich is a Swiss based global multiline insurer with a major specialty franchise. Beazley is a UK headquartered specialist insurer and reinsurer focused on niche and complex risks. The combination brings together two highly complementary businesses to create a UK headquartered global leader in specialty insurance, anchored by Beazley’s strong Lloyd’s market presence.

The Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer team was led by Finance partner Will Nevin and Corporate partner Mark Bardell, supported by senior associates Mehdi Tedjani and Will Beynon, and associates Arina Abgaryan and Lucy Kelly.

Partner Will Nevin commented: "This transaction brings together two naturally aligned specialty insurance businesses, combining Zurich’s global scale with Beazley’s market leading Lloyd’s platform. We are proud to have advised UBS on this strategic takeover."

Partner Mark Bardell added: "This deal reflects the strengths of our Corporate and Finance teams and we were delighted to play our part in such a significant transaction."