November 2007/5

London-based electronic trading platform Ri3K is streamlining charges for its services in response to "market criticisms" over the firm's pricing structure.

Brit Insurance Holdings PLC has renewed its binding authority agreement with Augsburg Re.

For the second time this year wildfires have forced thousands of Californians to evacuate their homes.

Aon Re Global Fac is to launch a dedicated residual value insurance division.

Lloyd's insurers Beazley Group plc and Hiscox Ltd disclosed moderate share buybacks last week, continuing the trend in the (re)insurance sector for the repatriation of capital to shareholders.

Directors' and officers' (D&O) rates are predicted to fall by a further 10 percent in the final quarter of the year, according to a survey by broker Willis Group.

Jardine Lloyd Thompson (JLT) saw its share price climb almost ten percent in the last week following the firm's announcement of a share buyback programme.

Endurance Specialty Insurance Ltd was upgraded to A by AM Best last week, returning the Bermudian (re)insurer's ratings to their pre-Katrina level.

Fitch Ratings has upgraded the insurer financial strength ratings of UK insurer Aviva plc's non-life firms to AA.

American International Group (AIG) executives including CEO Martin Sullivan and CFO Steven Bensinger have been named in a suit filed by shareholders over the firm's handling of its exposure to the sub-prime crisis.