Michael Ting

Descartes Underwriting

Descartes collaborates with brokers across the world to protect their corporate clients & governments against natural catastrophes, weather, and emerging risks, through a unique data-driven approach. OUR PURPOSE Descartes was born out of the conviction that climate change calls for a revolutionary approach in insurance to better protect corporations and governments. Catastrophe and man-made disasters are increasing year on year under demographic pressure & climate change. At Descartes, we seek to help clients become more resilient, not just insure them. Resilience is greater than just protection; we aim to meet the evolving needs in our complex world by giving clients the ability and strength to quickly bounce back – empowering them to cope with climate change. HOW WE WORK Traditional insurance products are often not transparent, expensive and despite the urgency, claims are processed slowly. At the forefront of artificial intelligence for risk modeling, we challenge the status quo. We apply new technologies such as image recognition or machine learning combined with new generations of data sources, coming from satellites or IoT, to assess and manage risks. This makes our products fairer, since all pricing and underwriting is based on advanced data, faster and more accurate at paying claims. Our approach is parametric - clients know exactly which event triggers what payment. WHO WE ARE Descartes Underwriting is a Managing General Agency working only with brokers. We underwrite insurance policies on behalf of a selected number of first-tier insurers, reinsurers, and Insurance-Linked Securities funds. We have the capacity to underwrite USD 200 million per deal & our span is global thanks to our partners. Founded in the heart of Paris' business district in 2018, we are proud to be a forward-looking and multicultural team backed by international risk carriers and financed with USD 141.5 million by BlackFin, Serena, Cathay, Highland Europe and Eurazeo.