Zurich Financial Services Group has made a big splash in the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market, creating a dedicated unit to assist customers on either side of a takeover. The M&A unit is already fully operational in the US, and the Swiss company expects global capability, with offices in London and Zurich, within two months.

According to Zurich Global Corporate CEO Geoff Riddell, the new business will target major players in the developing world of massive company transactions.

"Zurich's ability to offer rapid, integrated risk management solutions addresses our customers' increasing needs in this fast-paced, changing world of M&A and private equity transactions," he said.

Former Executive Vice President at Arch Insurance Group Thomas Gamble will lead the new operation.

The total value of M&A activity in the US reached an all-time high last year, with about $US4000 billion ($4500 billion) in deals. Mr Riddell says the climb is continuing, with figures this year showing a 25% increase on transactions to the end of June.

"Zurich is committed to capturing a significant share of the insurance activity related to this important market."