Serving our customers for over 178 years

Prudential plc history: serving customers since 1848

Prudential plc traces its origins to London, where the Prudential Mutual Assurance, Investment and Loan Association was established on 30 May 1848. Over time, the business grew from its UK roots into Asia and Africa.

1848: the beginning of Prudential’s insurance history

The Prudential Mutual Assurance Investment and Loan Association was formed at a meeting in Hatton Garden, London on 30 May 1848. The figure of Prudence was chosen for its first company seal. Prudence remains a lasting symbol of the Prudential brand.

1923 onwards: expanding into Asia

In 1923, Prudential opened its first overseas life insurance operation in Calcutta, India. This was followed by overseas branches in Canada, Australia, Africa, the Near East and Malaya.

1930 onwards: establishing a presence in Africa

Prudential’s involvement in Africa began in 1930 with an exploratory visit to South Africa. A head office opened in Johannesburg in 1931, followed by a branch office in Nairobi in 1931.

1994 to today: focused on Asia and Africa

In 1994, Prudential Corporation Asia was established to focus on the region’s growth potential. After the demerger of its UK and US businesses in 2021, Prudential plc concentrated on Asia and Africa.

In 2023, as we celebrated both our 175th anniversary and 100 years in Asia, we are proud to look back at our history of meeting the health, wealth and welfare needs of our customers.