August 2008/1

Willis's London market broker Glencairn, acquired as part of the $2.1bn Hilb Rogal & Hobbs (HRH) takeover, will be re-branded and allowed to function as a stand-alone wholesaler, The Insurance Insider has learnt.

Travelers has placed $1.4bn of run-off liabilities that sit in a UK subsidiary up for sale as it hopes to capitalise on the strong interest in acquiring discontinued business.

Marsh is set to undertake a significant shake-up later this year with the new management duo of Brian Duperreault and Dan Glaser poised to unveil sweeping changes at the global broking giant, The Insurance Insider understands.

American International Group's (AIG) new chief executive Rob Willumstad has given himself until Labor day (1 September) to demonstrate how he plans to restore the leviathan's fortunes.

Florida gives go-ahead for Berkshire Hathaway deal; Munich Re slumps on profits warning; Ex IAG boss gets A$1.9mn payoff; Underwriting refocus with Swiss Re shuffle; Max co-founder Doucette joins Everest; $4.7bn Philadelphia buyout for expansive Tokio

Aon recruits Benfield marine duo; Marketform expands into new lines; Xchanging continues $250mn M&A talks; UK Islamic insurer launched; Marsh UK parts company with senior exec; Coverzones boosts funding as carrier invests; RSA settles GM dispute; Amlin

The scheme of arrangement on the four EW Payne Pools was finally approved in the UK High Court last month.

Randall & Quilter's appetite for acquisitions shows no sign of waning with the group's founding CEO Ken Randall eyeing "numerous opportunities".

In the weeks leading up to XL's announcement of plans to cut loose from SCA, speculation had mounted over what rescue package new CEO McGavick would negotiate with regulators, and the potential role of third parties from within the (re)insurance industry.