What term describes an insurer that provides cover to its parent company?

The term "captive insurer" specifically refers to an insurance company that is created to provide coverage exclusively for its parent company or companies affiliated with it. Captive insurers are a form of self-insurance, allowing the parent company to have more control over its insurance needs and potentially reduce costs. They are formed primarily to manage risk and can offer tailored coverage that standard insurance products may not provide, reflecting the unique risk profile of the parent organization.

In contrast, a mutual company is owned by its policyholders, a proprietary company is run for profit with shareholders, and a reinsurance company specializes in insuring other insurance companies rather than providing coverage directly to a parent company. Each of these other forms plays a different role in the insurance ecosystem, but none serve the specific purpose of a captive insurer, which is focused solely on the needs of its parent entity.