Broker
Rate hardening slows in second quarter
The global insurance market hardened in Q2 2012 for the fourth consecutive quarter, albeit at a slow rate, according to Marsh.
Management merry-go-round at Catlin Canada
The Catlin Group has appointed David Huebel as chief executive of the firm's Canadian operation, replacing Mike Hansen who will continue as the aerospace product group's global leader.
Market moves: Brokers lead the recruitment charge
Another action-packed week in terms of recruitment saw the vast majority of movers and shakers switch roles in the broking market.
Travelers makes redundancies in Surrey as work is transferred to regional offices
Travelers has confirmed it is making redundancies in its Surrey headquarters as part of a restructure that aims to push greater underwriting authority out to its UK regional network and closer to its broking partners.
Penny Black's Insurance Week
Getting down with the kids
Spotlight On Medical & Health: The heart of the matter
The barriers of medical science are constantly being pushed back, and third-party liability is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the cover required for research and development projects.
Roundtable: How can fraud be halted at the underwriting stage?
There has long been a focus on fighting fraud at the claims stage, but could more be done to discourage would-be fraudsters at an earlier juncture?
Zurich appeal dismissal opens door for insurers in fight against fraud
Zurich's claims fraud and investigations manager Scott Clayton, pictured, has vowed to "take the positives" from this morning's failed Supreme Court appeal by reinforcing the message that future fraudsters will face prison sentences.
Editor's comment: Anti-climaxes and last laughs
Based on the column inches of coverage generated by alternative business structures since their advent was announced, the revelation that a mere seven firms have secured such status in a full six months smacks of anticlimax.
Post magazine - 28 June 2012
The latest issue of Post is now available to subscribers as a digital and interactive e-book.
Commercial Property: Too little, too late
Property underinsurance creates a real headache for insurers and their clients, often not discovered until a claim is made. So, where does the buck stop for accurate valuations?
Former Indie deputy MD Condon passes away
The former Independent Insurance deputy managing director Philip Condon, pictured right, passed away at the weekend aged 63.
Go Compare annual profit rises 15%
Go Compare's pre-tax profit increased 15% year on year to £34.7m in 2011, while turnover rose to £108.9m (2010: £101.5m).
RK Harrison secures £30m bank facility
RK Harrison Group has secured a £30m refinancing deal with Clydesdale Bank and Royal Bank of Scotland.
PE interest to shake up motor insurance market
Growing interest in motor insurance from private equity firms is likely to increase dynamism in the sector, according to Ernst & Young.
3i reaffirms Hyperion commitment amid rumours of cut-backs
Hyperion private equity backer 3i has brushed aside suggestions that it may abandon the international insurance intermediary group, following rumours of cost-cutting at the firm.
Biba web hits double for motor and travel signposting service
The number of website hits for the British Insurance Brokers' Association signposting service for motor and travel insurance has more than doubled in the two months since the site was launched.
European Commissioner calls for 'proportionate approach' ahead of IMD II
European Commissioner Michel Barnier has told the European Federation of Insurance and Financial Intermediaries he wants a "proportionate approach" ahead of the publication of the revised Insurance Mediation Directive.
Barnier assures brokers IMD regulation will be 'proportionate'
European Commissioner Michel Barnier has said the revision of the Insurance Mediation Directive is "an important step in restoring consumer confidence in the financial sector".
Law Commission publishes latest commercial consultation paper
The Law Commission has published its latest insurance contract law consultation paper today, ahead of plans to present final recommendations to parliament next year.
FXB: Groupama downgrade does not reflect UK profitability
Groupama Insurances chief executive François-Xavier Boisseau, pictured, has defended the strength of the "ring-fenced" UK business and claimed that "good progress" towards a sale is being made, after the group's security rating was downgraded.
Towergate eyes extended regional footprint following Dorset buy
Towergate has made its 10th acquisition of the year after agreeing a deal with Dorset-based Harry Fort Insurance Brokers.
Weekend flooding in northern England sparks EA warning
Record levels of rainfall in northern England over the weekend led to 450 people being evacuated after the river Derwent burst its banks and submerged a Keswick campsite.
BMS appointment signals US MGA growth plan
BMS Group has appointed delegated authority underwriter Gene Hinman to establish a US managing general agent platform.