June 2008/3

Willis Group Holdings has had its debt ratings placed under review for downgrade by rating agency Moody's after last week’s announced $2.1bn acquisition of Hilb Rogal & Hobbs (HRH).

The under-pressure shares in Brit Insurance Holdings Ltd have been tipped by the firm's corporate adviser to stage a recovery as the group continues to show resilience in its reinsurance business.

In another tough week for the stocks of the UK's quoted non-life insurers, RSA share price was a rare exception buoyed by vague suggestions of a possible bid from QBE.

QBE the Americas president and CEO Tim Kenny has taken three months leave of absence from the insurer for personal reasons, The Insurance Insider can reveal.