Welcome to MGAA Conversations, the latest addition to the podcast world, hosted by Mike Keating, CEO of the Managing General Agents Association. In this exciting new series, we delve into all things related to the rapidly expanding MGA (Managing General Agent) landscape. With a diverse array of guests from within the insurance industry and beyond, our aim is to explore the challenges, opportunities, and personalities shaping the MGA community. Expect engaging discussions with prominent figures in the industry, including CEOs and innovators, offering first-hand insights into the dynamics of the MGA market. From the future of distribution strategies, such as partnerships with brokers, to the impact of insurtech and AI on the industry, no topic is off-limits. Regulation is another key focus, as we navigate the evolving landscape of compliance and its implications for MGAs. Through candid conversations and expert analysis, MGAA Conversations aims to provide listeners with valuable perspectives on current issues and future trends affecting the MGA community. But it’s not all serious business – expect lively conversations, off-the-wall guests, and a touch of humour to keep things entertaining. We invite you to join us on this journey, share your feedback, and suggest topics and guests for future episodes. Don’t forget to subscribe to MGAA Conversations on your preferred platform so you never miss an episode. Thanks for listening!
Episodes
Tuesday May 27, 2025
Tuesday May 27, 2025
In this episode of MGAA Conversations, host Mike Keating speaks with Rinku Patel, CEO of Pine Walk Capital, about the firm's innovative platform model for MGAs. Founded in 2017 and backed by Fidelis, Pine Walk provides experienced underwriters with the infrastructure, support, and operational freedom to launch and scale underwriting businesses. Rinku discusses how Pine Walk blends entrepreneurial freedom with robust capital backing, their approach to governance and risk, and what sets their platform apart in the evolving MGA landscape.
Key Quotes
“We give entrepreneurs real freedom — underwriting freedom and operational support — but we do so in a way that’s disciplined and governed.”
“We’ve created a structure that’s not only attractive to underwriters but also gives confidence to capacity providers and regulators.”
“Our model is very different. We take real ownership of the businesses we back — they carry our name, our compliance standards, and our risk management culture.”
Resources
- Pine Walk Capital
Website: https://www.pinewalkcapital.com/ - Fidelis Insurance Group – Pine Walk's strategic parent company
Website: https://www.fidelisinsurance.com/
About the Guest
Rinku Patel is the CEO of Pine Walk Capital, an MGA platform launched in 2017 with backing from Fidelis Insurance. With a background in insurance, investment, and operations, Rinku leads Pine Walk’s mission to empower underwriters through a supportive, well-governed infrastructure that combines entrepreneurial freedom with institutional-grade standards.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rinkupatel
About the Host:
Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.
He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.
Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.
Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/
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