March 2005/4

Greenberg’s gone but, with 10-K delay, is more bad news imminent?

In a move set to add to an already mixed picture of new broker models, Heath Lambert has today published its own system of payment for work carried out on behalf of insurance companies. Using what it describes as its Broker Insurer Services Commission (BI

The recent P&I renewal season was characterised by a split between clubs determined to maintain discipline and charge published rate increases, and those who let discipline slip, according to Aon’s P&I division P.L. Ferrari & Co (Aon PLF).

Ratings agency AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of the P&C subsidiaries of US insurer Chubb at “A++” (Superior).

Industry grandee Bob Clements, the founding chairman of Bermuda’s Arch Capital, is to step down from his position at the company, with current vice-chairman Paul Ingrey taking his place at the beginning of next month (1 April 2005).

Bermuda’s youngest post-9/11 start-up reported a maiden set of full-year results blighted by hurricane losses that led to a net loss of $54.6mn, or $0.96 a share for 2004.

German giant insurer Allianz reported a strong set of 2004 results last Thursday (17 March), prompting ratings agency Fitch to upgrade the company and its subsidiary Dresdner Bank.

World number two reinsurer Swiss Re announced profits up from SFr1.7bn to SFr2.5bn last Thursday (17 March), as it committed to earnings growth through the insurance cycle, targeting 10 percent a year increases in earnings per share.

Following months of speculation, Lloyd’s motor specialist Cox Insurance Holdings announced on 16 March that it has reached a provisional agreement with a consortium led by ousted CEO Neil Utley to buy the company.

Specialist Lloyd’s insurer Chaucer has announced record pre-tax profits of £38.2mn, a 6.7 percent increase on 2003’s £35.8mn figure.

Lloyd’s listed insurer Beazley spoke of market conditions that remain “pretty good” as it announced 2004 profits that almost doubled from £17.1mn to £33.4mn, and earnings per share up from 5.0p to 9.3p year-on-year – despite its managed syndicates being h

2004 proved to be another difficult year for Lloyd’s insurer SVB as continued promise in the turnaround of its ongoing business was once again overshadowed by the legacy of its past.