Gerling Global Re might have gone into run-off (see International News), but its local general insurance operation, Gerling Australia Insurance, is still doing business in the local market. The profitable operation has carved a niche for itself with business that brokers describe as “good and solid”.

That may be set to continue, with CEO Felix Zaccar saying today that Gerling is in discussions with German reinsurer Hannover – which also operates in commercial insurance niches in Europe –  “and another partner with a view to establishing a joint relationship going forward”.

Meanwhile, a block away in Sydney’s Pitt Street, Gerling Global Re’s local office is also at work, but not talking. CEO John Bubb did not return calls from Sunrise Exchange News.