December 2009/1

The launch of a $250mn US wind and quake cat bond - Longpoint Re II from US insurer Travelers Indemnity Co - has brought 2009 cat bond issuance within range of the $3bn predicted by many in the convergence market.

Mark Lawrence has resigned as head of the liability division at Argo International's Syndicate 1200, The Insurance Insider has learned.

First Reserve and CV Starr deal will offer access to higher-rated paper.

AJ Gallagher UK is in advanced talks to acquire London market broker First City Insurance Group Limited (FCIG), The Insurance Insider can reveal.

A tie-up between Aspen Insurance Holdings and fellow Bermudian group Ariel Holdings could be completed by year-end, and may eventually cause the spin-off of Ariel's well-regarded Lloyd's unit Atrium, The Insurance Insider can reveal.

Record size expansion largely to accommodate sterling weakness