Zurich Financial and Sampo believed to be assessing a bid

RSA is the latest insurer at the centre of stock market takeover speculation, with Zurich Financial and Sampo rumoured to be eyeing up a move.

The share price, which was 125p at the begining of the year, rose a further 2p to 136p this week on talk of a bid.

Shore Capital analyst Eamonn Flanagan said RSA could be a takeover target at some point this year. “It’s got good market positions in key territories and some emerging markets, and I think that makes it a viable prospect.”

Aviva rebuffed RSA’s attempts at a takeover last year. Meanwhile, investors speculated last month that Zurich Financial could target car insurer Admiral.

Zurich Financial, Sampo and RSA refused to comment.

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