The Hartford Announces Purchase of Equitable's Employee Benefits Unit

The Hartford, a Connecticut‑based insurer, has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Equitable’s Employee Benefits business. The transaction targets the small‑ and midsize‑employer market and includes Equitable’s technology platform, group life, disability, paid family and medical leave, dental, vision and other supplemental health products. The deal is expected to add roughly $500 million in premium and about 300 employees to The Hartford’s Priority Business segment.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, with an anticipated close in the fourth quarter. Hartford Chairman and CEO Christopher Swift said the purchase reinforces the company’s leadership in employee benefits for small businesses, while head of Employee Benefits Mike Fish highlighted the integrated digital capabilities and real‑time API integration that will improve broker and employer experiences. Financial advisors include Rothschild & Co and J.P. Morgan, with legal counsel from Sidley Austin and Debevoise & Plimpton.