News
GRP strikes biggest deal since Searchlight investment with Marsh Networks buy
Global Risk Partners has agreed to buy Marsh’s UK networks for an undisclosed sum in a deal expected to close next quarter.
Concerns flagged that directors' liabilities under audit reform may be uninsurable
Forthcoming audit reforms that will make directors, rather than boards, personally responsible for the accuracy of company financial statements might not be insurable, the Forum of Insurance Lawyers has warned.
Hiscox Action Group warns insurers may seek to ‘read down’ BI ruling
Insurers have responded to draft declarations regarding the Supreme Court’s January business interruption ruling, with the Hiscox Action Group flagging concerns that they may seek to “read down” the judgment.
Kingfisher refutes 'bad faith' dismissals accusation in High Court case
Kingfisher has responded to claims by the sellers of Fresh Insurance that it exited key directors in “bad faith” in a further filing at the High Court.
Ex-FCA boss Chris Woolard joins EY
Former interim CEO of the Financial Conduct Authority Chris Woolard will join EY this April to lead its Europe, Middle East, India and Africa financial services regulatory capabilities and chair the EY global financial services regulatory network, the…
Ratings agencies see ‘meaningful debate’ between insurers and reinsurers over Covid-19 recoveries
Experts have reiterated that insurer ratings are unlikely to be hit by the outcome of the Supreme Court’s Covid-19 business interruption claims ruling but noted that there will “meaningful debate” over how much insurers can claim from their reinsurers.
For the Record: Jensten moves closer to £500m target; Laka unveils European HQ; start-up Mosaic opens for business and SRG acquires again
Post wraps up the major insurance deals, launches, investments and strategic moves of the week.
Be Wiser consults with 280 staff over restructure
Broker Be Wiser is consulting with its 280 staff on a business reorganisation programme, with some job losses expected.
Eldon and Leave EU appeals in ICO case dismissed by Upper Tribunal
Three judges in the Upper Tribunal Administrative Appeals Chamber have dismissed all five appeals made by Leave EU and Arron Banks’ Eldon Insurance Services (now known as Somerset Bridge) in a case with the Information Commissioner’s Office.
Engineers carrying out cladding assessments will be able to avail of state-backed PI cover
The government has committed to a state-backed indemnity scheme for fire safety engineers who are unable to obtain professional indemnity insurance, as it announced an additional £3.5bn in funding for the removal of cladding from buildings 18m in height…
Canopius names Neil Robertson deputy CEO
Neil Robertson, formerly Axa XL CEO, global specialty, is to join Canopius as deputy CEO ahead of becoming CEO in due course.
Whiplash pre-action protocol progressing through CPRC
Some progress is being made on getting whiplash portal rules in front of the Lord Chancellor for approval, Civil Procedure Rule Committee meeting minutes suggest.
Insurance affordability and availability issues do not equate to market failure: ABI's James Dalton
The Covid-19 pandemic has not led to market failures in the UK insurance sector, James Dalton, director of general insurance policy at the Association of British Insurers, has said.
PI firms and insurers clash on direct pre-medical offers
Solicitors have called for more regulation around insurers contacting claimants that have legal representation with pre-medical offers, as law firms allege that claimants may be missing out on higher compensation awards.
Disputes over furlough deductions from BI claims continue as adjusters and assessors call for clear guidance
Loss adjusters and assessors have called on the government and regulators to publish clear guidance on how government support received by businesses is to be treated in respect of lockdown-related interruption claims.
Biba unveils 'resilience' theme for 2021 manifesto
The British Insurance Brokers’ Association has launched its 2021 manifesto with the heading of ‘Resilience’ as it highlighted the ways it said brokers can help as the UK adapts to a post-pandemic normal after Brexit.
Kelly Lyles joins insurtech Cytora
Cytora has added Kelly Lyles former CEO of client and country management at Axa XL to its advisory board.
LV, Zurich, Hiscox and Davies Group discussed how automation-driven claims could become a greater USP in the battle for consumer hearts, minds and wallets
It has never been more important for insurers to fine tune and promote the claims journey as a unique selling point. So how can intelligent automation be a fantastic tool in building trust in an insurance brand?
Beazley braced for Covid-19 liability claims in 2021 as it reports $50m 2020 loss
Beazley expects to feel the delayed impact of Covid-19-related liability claims later this year, highlighting its directors' and officers' and healthcare books as particular concerns.
Analysis: More uncertainty for BI policyholders over losses beyond first lockdown
Many business interruption policyholders may only be able to claim for losses suffered during last year’s first coronavirus lockdown, with cover for subsequent losses depending on factors such as the wordings of their policies and their renewal date.
For the record: Ardonagh swoops for PI broker; ERS in ILS push; First 4 Lawyers launches RTA law firm; Marsh partnership and McLarens acquires
Post wraps up the major insurance deals, launches, investments and strategic moves of the week.
Loss adjusters detail payout push post Supreme Court BI case as notifications leap
The number of notifications of business interruption claims posted on Acturis’ system increased by a multiple of 500 in the week after the Supreme Court ruling, Post can reveal.
Zurich appoints Penny Seach as CUO for EMEA
Zurich has named Penny Seach as chief underwriting officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa moving across from CEO of general insurance for Zurich Hong Kong.
Insurers and brokers offer leave and flexible working as school closures strain parents
Insurers and brokers have increased paid leave and introduced more flexible working arrangements to employees under additional pressure from lockdown restrictions, with a particular focus on those now juggling work with childcare responsibilities.