News
SMEs look to go direct
A third of UK SMEs would rather buy business insurance direct, rather than via a broker. According to a new survey by QBE, only 16% of UK SMEs will look to the insurance industry for advice in the first six months of 2010.
THB vows to improve margin
THB has vowed to work on its broking margin and continue to expand overseas after profits remained static in 2009.
Barbon earnings up 20% on back of new business
Barbon has reported that its broking business saw annual profits grow by 2% to £42.7m last year, compared to 2008 (£41.9m).
NFU sees future in hybrid car insurance
NFU Mutual has been appointed by Mitsubishi as its approved underwriter for its new line in electric cars, i-MiEVs.
Central eyes opportunities after £1.2m move
Aberdeen-based broker Central Insurance has hired former Aon, Willis and Axa staff to operate its new office in Glasgow, after investing £1.2m in the new venture.
Higos looks for heir to pick up acquisition mantel
Higos Insurance Services' managing director has outlined plans to recruit his successor and move to the role of chairman, as well as acquire five new brokers in the next 18 months.
WNS breaks into national broker market
WNS Assistance is to target the UK broker market after winning an outsourcing deal with Bluefin to manage its personal lines motor claims.
Solvency II: warning over capital requirement
Insurers could face an average solvency capital requirement increase of more than 60% compared to previous expectations as a result of new Solvency II proposals, EMB has warned.
'Culture shift' sees 100 execs recruited
Towergate plans to bolster its broker sales force by recruiting 100 development executives this year, as part of its revised strategy to grow organically rather than through acquisition.
TIP linked to Oxygen trio
The Insurance Partnership has been linked with three members of Oxygen's corporate risks arm who recently resigned.
Industry welcomes exception in Equality Bill
The insurance industry has welcomed a decision to allow insurers to continue using age as a risk factor in setting premiums.
Hubbard quiet on UKG link
Former Axa Insurance chief executive Peter Hubbard has refused to rule himself out of the running to become the new boss of UK General.
Heath Lambert in race to be HSBC replacement
Heath Lambert has emerged as a frontrunner to replace HSBC Insurance Brokers as the UK representative of Assurex Global, Post has learnt.