In the complex world of insurance, wholesale brokers and managing general agents (MGAs) play a critical role. Acting as the bridge between retail agents and insurers, they offer specialized coverage options and access to niche markets that are often unavailable through standard channels. In the United States, a handful of standout wholesale brokers and MGAs have earned a 5-star reputation for their expertise, innovation, and service. This article highlights the best wholesale brokers in the USA and what makes them top-tier industry leaders.
What is a Wholesale Insurance Broker?
A wholesale insurance broker acts as an intermediary between retail insurance agents and insurance carriers. They help agents and brokers place risks that are hard to insure or require specialized expertise, such as environmental liability, cyber risk, or high-value commercial properties.
What is an MGA (Managing General Agent)?
An MGA is a specialized type of wholesale broker that not only places coverage but also has underwriting authority on behalf of insurance carriers. MGAs often develop niche insurance products, underwrite policies, and even handle claims — offering end-to-end solutions for agents and their clients.
Top 5-Star Wholesale Brokers and MGAs in the USA (2025)
1. RT Specialty (Ryan Specialty)
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Headquarters: Chicago, IL
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Specialties: Professional liability, property & casualty, healthcare, cyber
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Why They Stand Out: RT Specialty is known for its deep underwriting expertise and a vast network of carrier partners, offering customized solutions for complex risks. Their tech-forward approach also makes quote and bind processes faster and more efficient.
2. Amwins Group
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Headquarters: Charlotte, NC
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Specialties: Construction, environmental, healthcare, transportation
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Why They Stand Out: As the largest wholesale distributor of specialty insurance products in the U.S., Amwins has unmatched market access. With over 6,000 employees and a broad spectrum of MGAs and underwriting divisions, Amwins is a true powerhouse.
3. CRC Group
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Headquarters: Birmingham, AL
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Specialties: E&S property, casualty, professional lines, personal lines
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Why They Stand Out: CRC Group combines strong carrier relationships with specialty-focused underwriting, making them a trusted go-to for tough-to-place and high-value risks.
4. Burns & Wilcox
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Headquarters: Farmington Hills, MI
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Specialties: Commercial, professional, environmental, marine
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Why They Stand Out: Burns & Wilcox is known for its strong MGA capabilities and in-house underwriting. Their deep knowledge across multiple verticals helps retail agents find coverage for emerging or high-risk industries.
5. Risk Placement Services (RPS)
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Headquarters: Rolling Meadows, IL
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Specialties: Cyber, general liability, professional liability, transportation
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Why They Stand Out: A division of Arthur J. Gallagher, RPS combines wholesale brokerage and MGA services. Their innovative digital tools and commitment to fast turnaround have earned them high marks from agents nationwide.
Rising Stars to Watch
6. Brown & Riding
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Noted for: Exceptional client service and specialized E&S solutions.
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Why They Matter: Employee-owned and fiercely independent, Brown & Riding continues to grow by focusing on integrity, responsiveness, and technical excellence.
7. All Risks, Ltd. (Now part of Ryan Specialty)
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Known for: Wide market reach and expertise in healthcare and professional lines.
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Why They Matter: Their merger with RT Specialty has only strengthened their product offerings and client support.
Key Traits of 5-Star Wholesale Brokers and MGAs
To make it to the top tier, wholesale brokers must demonstrate:
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✅ Underwriting Expertise in specialized fields
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✅ Carrier Access and strong relationships with top-rated insurers
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✅ Technology Innovation that improves turnaround and transparency
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✅ Responsive Client Service with a deep understanding of agent needs
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✅ Tailored Products for niche or hard-to-place risks
How to Choose the Right Wholesale Broker or MGA
When choosing a wholesale partner, retail agents should consider:
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Industry Focus – Does the broker specialize in your client’s sector?
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Coverage Access – Are they able to reach markets that others can’t?
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Service Levels – Do they respond quickly and help with underwriting?
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Expertise – Do they provide insights and risk management support?
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Reputation – What do other agents say about working with them?
Conclusion
The wholesale insurance landscape in the U.S. continues to evolve rapidly, driven by increasing risk complexity and the demand for specialized solutions. The 5-star wholesale brokers and MGAs listed above represent the best in the business, offering the expertise, tools, and market access that today’s retail agents need to serve their clients effectively. Whether you’re seeking coverage for cyber liability, environmental exposures, or construction projects, these firms deliver.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a retail and wholesale insurance broker?
A retail broker works directly with consumers, while a wholesale broker works with retail brokers to place more complex or specialty risks with insurers.
2. Do MGAs take on underwriting risk?
Yes, MGAs often have delegated authority from carriers to underwrite and bind policies, manage claims, and sometimes issue policies directly.
3. Can a retail agent work directly with a wholesale broker?
Yes. Retail agents commonly partner with wholesale brokers when they need access to specialty markets or coverages unavailable through direct insurers.
4. Are wholesale brokers regulated?
Yes. Like all insurance professionals, wholesale brokers and MGAs must be licensed and comply with state insurance regulations.
5. Why use a 5-star rated wholesale broker?
5-star brokers are recognized for their service, innovation, and underwriting skill. Working with them increases the likelihood of securing optimal coverage for hard-to-place risks.
