George Town, Grand Cayman, April 27, 2026 – The Insurance Managers Association of Cayman (IMAC) has reported continued growth in the Cayman Islands’ international insurance sector, following the release of the 2026 Q1 licensing statistics by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA).
Between January and March 2026, CIMA issued 14 new international insurer licences, comprising six Class B(i)s, seven Class B(iii)s, and one Class C. In addition, 4 Portfolio Insurance Companies (PICs) were approved. This marks an increase compared to the 5 licences issued during the same period in 2025, underscoring sustained interest in the Cayman Islands as a leading insurance domicile, and signalling strong momentum for the remainder of the year.
With these additions, Cayman now has a total of 722 Class B, C, and D insurance companies licensed, collectively writing approximately US$51 billion in premiums and holding an estimated US$176 billion in total assets.
Growth in the Class B(iii) category continues to be a key driver, as Cayman attracts new reinsurers to the jurisdiction. This upward trend in reinsurance activity is expected to continue throughout 2026 and was recently highlighted at the third annual CIRCA conference, ReConnect, held at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Continued growth in single-parent captives is also encouraging, reflecting Cayman’s strong position among global domicile options.
Commenting on the Q1 figures, IMAC Chair, James Trundle said:
“It is encouraging to see the increase in new licensees during the first quarter of 2026. Cayman remains well positioned, supported by a vibrant international insurance industry, demonstrated at the recent ReConnect conference that attracted over 675 attendees. During Reconnect, the Cayman Islands Premier also announced the jurisdiction’s intention to pursue qualified jurisdiction status, with an application expected before the end of Q2 2026. This is a positive step that could further support growth in new licences by enhancing Cayman’s attractiveness to international insurers and reinsurers – particularly those seeking efficient access to key markets.
We also look ahead to the Cayman Captive Forum, taking place from December 1–3, which will once again showcase the jurisdiction’s strengths while bringing key industry updates and insights to the forefront.”
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About IMAC:
The Insurance Managers Association of Cayman (IMAC) represents the international insurance industry in the Cayman Islands. IMAC liaises with government and the regulator on the industry’s behalf and promotes innovation and international competitiveness to maintain Cayman’s advantageous market position. The Cayman Islands is one of the largest domiciles in the world for captives and a dominant jurisdiction for healthcare captives, group captives, catastrophe bonds and international reinsurance.