Post magazine – 16 October 2014

In this issue, Lloyd’s is attempting to woo provincial markets to consolidate its UK position, by boosting connections with brokers and MGAs outside London.

Manchester recently hosted a Lloyd's ‘meet the market' event, with UK and Ireland regional manager Keith Stern saying: “Manchester is a big regional market and there are a lot of MGAs and brokers based in that region who do not have strong connections with Lloyd's. Some time ago we decided we would take our London-based event on the road. The most likely next candidate is Birmingham.”

Also in the news, the publication of the Solvency II Delegated Acts has left industry experts in “little doubt” the directive will be implemented by January 2016; the jury is still out on Aviva UK and Ireland CEO Maurice Tulloch’s long-term impact despite broker progress; online travel insurers could fall foul of the Financial Ombudsman Service if they fail to clearly state exclusions based on advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office; and ‘constructive’ party conference season dialogue has pleased insurance bosses.

Ageas Insurance CEO Francois-Xavier Boisseau is in the C-Suite, arguing that a sharper focus on the human touch improves the insurance experience of both customers and staff. Fraud Focus sees DWF counter fraud director Jamie Taylor discussing how the Insurance Bill is largely good news for insurers, but there will be some areas where protection is reduced.

Post recently held its annual Claims Event. Mark Sands rounds up all the news from the Victoria Park Plaza Hotel.

Rachael Adams meets the managing director and CEO of HSB Engineering, Stephanie Watkins. She gives the lowdown on a period of major change for the specialist insurer – including its acquisition by Munich Re – and reveals what she sees as the emerging risks for the sector.

If a recent Swiss Re report is to be believed, investment in renewable energy is set to skyrocket in the coming years – so why do insurers seem wary of taking on the sector’s risks? We find out.

Analysis of the aggregator market by insurance company IGO4 reveals the increasing prevalence of telematics and the softening of household rates. We look into the implications for the industry.

Finally, Mark Sands catches up with Ageas group chief executive Bart de Smet, who reaffirms his commitment to the UK's motor sector despite its volatility, while adding that the firm is always keen to gain from consolidation elsewhere.

Enjoy the read!