In a groundbreaking venture, Equity Risk Partners Global will allow member brokers to serve private equity firms on a global scale

SAN FRANCISCO, CA / July 15, 2010 - A group of renowned independent insurance brokerage firms announced today the launch of Equity Risk Partners Global (ERP Global), a worldwide insurance broker alliance focused exclusively on the needs of the private equity sector. As the first and only entity of its kind, ERP Global is comprised of international brokerages in countries where there is a significant amount of private equity activity, who are redefining the role of the insurance broker in global private equity through collaboration.

The ERP Global concept is the creation of Equity Risk Partners, a U.S.-based insurance brokerage and risk management consulting firm that has been servicing the needs of the private equity industry for over a decade. Realizing the inevitable growth of the industry as the global economy rebounds and the imminent need for international expertise, they sought the participation of entrepreneurial international brokers with well-established and broad industry experience coupled with a proven commitment to private equity.

"We are excited to be a part of this landmark alliance that connects insurance brokers and private equity firms on a global scale," says Michael Marcon, CEO of Equity Risk Partners. "With the expertise of our member brokers and our ability to access previously untapped resources, the collaborative efforts of these brokers have the ability to have a significant positive impact on private equity transactions. This venture establishes the best global alliance of insurance professionals in the private equity space."

ERP Global will allow brokers to pool their resources and talents in order to increase efficiency in due diligence using a unified approach. Through the use of cutting-edge technology, brokers around the world will respond whenever one of the members is engaged on a new deal, thereby taking advantage of the unique experiences and abilities each broker offers.

"As an established insurance brokerage and employee benefit consultancy, we are proud and excited to join ERP Global. We consider this collaboration not only a reward for our professional attitude, but also a great challenge to further materialize our excellent working relationship with member brokers worldwide," says Alexander de Waal, Managing Director, Dorens & De Waal Amsterdam.

More information about Equity Risk Partners Global is available at www.equityriskglobal.com.