Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group (JLT), a group of risk specialists and employee benefits consultants, hs said that its South African business has received a license to operate by the Financial Services Board (FSB).

The license will allow JLT to enter into South African market as a fully independent operator offering increased choice to insurance and reinsurance buyers in the domestic market.

JLT group said it will be opening its first independent office in Woodmead, Johannesburg.

In January 2011, JLT intended to establish an independent business in South Africa.

JLT Group International chairman for risk & insurance and chairman of JLT South Africa Mark Drummond Brady said the this development will allow JLT to provide clients with access to its industry specialisms in areas such as construction, power, natural resources, marine, financial risks, life sciences and telecommunications.