Insurance Wiki How

Federal authorities have run into some delays while investigating the cause of an explosion at a Chandler strip mall print shop that seriously injured four men inside the building. Tom Mangan, a special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jvAanu

Trio Accused of Staging Auto Accidents in California

Three people face multiple charges in connection with staged auto insurance accidents Los Angeles, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office reported. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said Eduardo Retana, Ausencio Gomez and Victor Valle-Diaz, all of the city … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mMKjOD

Risk Strategies Acquires Georgia-based Employee Benefits Specialty Broker Benevestco

National specialty insurance brokerage and risk management firm Risk Strategies announced it has acquired the assets of employee benefits specialty broker Benevestco, Inc., a Resource Sevens company. Terms of the deal were not announced. Based in Fayetteville, Georgia, Benevestco is … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3t3HqKH

Analysts Foresee Modest Economic Damage in U.S. From Ida; Peg Insured Losses at $10B

With more than 1 million customers in Louisiana and Mississippi having lost power, Hurricane Ida is sure to take a toll on the energy, chemical and shipping industries that have major hubs along the Gulf Coast. But the impact on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DznnIH

People Moves: MJ Insurance Adds Bingham; Ashurst Joins Marsh in Chicago

MJ Insurance MJ Insurance, a risk management and employee benefits agency headquartered in Indianapolis, hired Julie Bingham as vice president of Total Rewards Consulting. Bingham brings 20-plus years of experience in compensation consulting and human resource leadership roles to MJ. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mOzgVh

North Carolina Regulators Find Chemours Plant Out of Compliance With Air Permit

North Carolina environmental regulators announced this week that a plant that for years discharged so-called “forever chemicals” into the air and water is not currently in compliance with its air permit. In its letter to Chemours, the Department of Environmental … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gJrTuv

Second Insurance Business Transfer in U.S. Approved in Oklahoma

An Oklahoma court has approved Sentry Insurance Co.’s (Sentry) Insurance Business Transfer (IBT) Plan, insurance regulators say. This is the second IBT completed in the United States, according to the Oklahoma Insurance Department. The first was approved and authorized in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3BsaKgD

Fewer Virus Vaccinations Among Missouri Nursing Home Workers than Most States

Officials face a tall order to get all Missouri nursing home workers vaccinated because fewer than half of them have received the shots. By that metric, Missouri’s 48% ranks third-lowest in the nation, trailed only by Florida and Louisiana, both … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WIVT2A

Confirmed Tornado Caused Damage in Southeastern South Dakota

A storm survey team from the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has confirmed it was a tornado that caused damage in and around Lennox during the weekend. The weather service tweeted the brief tornado struck about 4:40 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DyvWDH

U.S. Treasury Begins Inquiry Into Climate Risks in Insurance

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has announced that the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) is requesting information and soliciting public comment on the insurance sector and climate-related financial risks. FIO said the responses to the request for information will help … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WBnGSj

Allianz names South East branch manager

The insurer has also appointed a new strategic account manager. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3gJ7t4P

Floods, Outages Stall Oil Companies’ Efforts to Restart After Hurricane Ida

Widespread flooding from Hurricane Ida and power outages slowed efforts on Tuesday by energy firms to assess damages at oil production facilities, ports and refineries. Nearly all of Louisiana lost electrical power on Monday after one of the most powerful … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2V0jWcy

Ascot Realigns Global Reinsurance With Launch of Ascot Re

HAMILTON, BERMUDA — Ascot announced the launch of Ascot Reinsurance, a global platform dedicated to reinsurance underwriting and ceded risk and providing a single point of entry for all Ascot’s reinsurance products and capabilities, regardless of geography. Ascot Re will … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jtFQhV

Ping An Insurance Denies Regulator Halted Sales of Alternative Investments

Ping An Insurance (Group) Co. denied that it has been ordered by regulators to halt sales of property-related alternative investments in response to a Reuters report that sent shares tumbling. The group and its asset management arm don’t sell any … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gMPZof

Court Revives Bernie Madoff Customers’ $343M Clawback Suit Against Citigroup

A U.S. appeals court said the trustee liquidating Bernard Madoff’s firm can pursue a $343.1 million clawback lawsuit against Citigroup Inc., a decision that could help the late swindler’s customers recover close to the estimated $17.5 billion they lost in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WGaH1Z

Toyota to Restart Paralympic Village Driverless Vehicles Following Accident

Toyota Motor said on Monday it would resume operations of its self-driving e-Palette pods at the Tokyo Paralympic Games village with greater operator control and more safety staff to ensure they did not hit any more people. The e-Palettes were … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zwAXtP

Pandemic Uncertainty Hasn’t Slowed Private Equity Investments in Insurance: S&P Global

Private equity and venture capital firms have been pouring capital into insurance companies despite the uncertainties about claims and losses from the pandemic, according to a new analysis from S&P Global Market Intelligence. PE-backed M&A in the sector globally reached … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Y36jKQ

People Moves: 30 August- 3 September

Keep up to date with the latest people moves. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3yxhZlu

‘Mission: Impossible’ Movie Producer Sues Insurer Over 7 Coronavirus Stoppages

Production on the new “Mission: Impossible” movie was shut down seven times due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a lawsuit filed on Monday that accuses the film’s insurance company of failing to pay out for all but one of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sZ3HsS

Uber Proposes Gig Industry Benefits Model in Canada

Uber Technologies Inc. on Monday proposed a plan for a flexible benefits fund for app-based ride-hail and food delivery drivers in Canada under which all gig industry players would share data on workers’ hours and earnings. Under the preliminary proposal … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yxJPOP

People Moves: New Hires at Buckle, Plymouth Rock Assurance

Buckle Appoints Sinclair to Newly Created Position of Chief People Officer Buckle, a tech-enabled financial services company, appointed Cheryl Sinclair to the company’s newly created position of chief people officer. She is responsible for developing Buckle’s human resources strategy, including … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jxKr2J

Connecticut Insurance Department to Host Conference on Climate Change, Insurance

The Connecticut Insurance Department and U.S. experts on climate change, resiliency, mitigation and adaptation are leading a discussion on what the insurance industry should consider to mitigate and adapt. On October 13 and 14, the department is hosting The Connecticut … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jssceO

Massachusetts Contractor Faces $1.3M in Penalties After Workers Die at Dig Site

At a Boston sewer repair worksite in February, Jordy Alexander Castaneda Romero and Juan Carlos Figueroa Gutierrez died after a dump truck struck and pushed them into a nine-foot deep trench. For their employer, Atlantic Coast Utilities LLC/Advanced Utilities Inc., … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gMSWVK

Lawyer in Alabama Governor’s Office Charged with Child Solicitation

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) _ A lawyer in Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey’s office was arrested on charges of using a computer to solicit or exploit a child, jail records show. Chase Tristian Espy was booked into the Jefferson County Jail on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yvpQAe

South Carolina Supreme Court to Hear Pair of Mask Mandate Lawsuits

South Carolina’s highest court will hear two challenges to the state’s refusal to let school districts require masks for students and teachers this week. The state Supreme Court has set aside two hours to hear the cases Tuesday. South Carolina … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zvU2N3

Insurers Settle Washington Boys Home Sex Abuse Case for $9M

Insurance companies have settled another sexual abuse lawsuit brought against Kiwanis International, this time for $9 million in a case involving seven men who were sexually abused at a Centralia, Washington, group home for boys decades ago. The state placed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38tJhPb

Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Southeast Tuesday as Ida Weakens

Tropical Depression Ida is expected to cause considerable rainfall across the southeastern states Tuesday with flood and flash flood watches in effect from the Gulf Coast Region through the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys into the central and southern Appalachians. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gJrHeQ

Chubb Unit Insurance Dispute Complicates Boy Scouts Abuse Victims’ Deal

A dispute over whether a unit of insurance giant Chubb Ltd. must contribute to a trust fund for sexually abused Boy Scouts is complicating talks to end the youth group’s bankruptcy case. Lawyers for more than 80,000 people who say … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yyc9k1

People Moves: C3 in California Launches Construction Division with Heidemann, Hallett, Porlas, Shea

C3 Risk & Insurance Services in San Diego, Calif. hired four insurance industry veterans to establish new construction and surety divisions. The new team members to the construction and surety divisions are: Paul Heidemann, managing director. Heidemann has more than … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WBaE7x

Couple Files Lawsuit Over Shooting of Dog That Ran at Colorado Officer

A couple whose young dog was shot by a police officer in a northern Colorado city has filed a lawsuit accusing the officer’s supervisors of covering up what happened and claiming that the city has fostered a culture that encourages … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kCGjh8

Higher Rebuilding Prices Expected to Boost Hurricane Ida’s Insurance Costs

Insurers are bracing for $15 billion to $30 billion in claims from Hurricane Ida, but the figure could jump higher, in part because of pandemic pricing that has pushed up the cost of lumber and labor to rebuild, insurance experts … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zrds5z

Parents File Suit for Children Injured on Washington Tilt-A-Whirl Ride

The families of children who were injured on the Tilt-A-Whirl at the Kitsap County Fair in Washington in 2018 are suing the owner of the amusement company that operated the ride at the fair’s carnival and its manufacturer. The lawsuit … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ypJBsY

Japan Sees a Future in Crewless Cargo Ships as First Autonomous Trial Voyage Nears

In just two decades from now, half of all domestic ships plying Japan’s coastal waters may be piloting themselves. That’s the ambitious goal of the Nippon Foundation, a public-interest organization backing the country’s development of ocean-traversing autonomous ships. It aims … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jvfaxm

California Agent Arrested, Charged with Theft of More than $1M

A Camarillo, California, insurance agent was arrested on Aug. 26 and charged with allegedly stealing more than $1 million from clients, according to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office. Steven Franklin Gordon was arrested and charged with multiple theft crimes … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jp1yU9

Align Acquires Atlanta-Based Underwriting Manager NBIS

Align Financial Holdings, LLC (“Align”), a general agency and specialist program underwriting manager announced that it has acquired Atlanta-based NationsBuilders Insurance Services, Inc. (“NBIS”), an underwriting manager specializing in providing risk management, underwriting and claims handling expertise to the crane … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38n3BSo

Analysis: As Ida Strikes, Louisiana Still Waiting for Aid a Year After Laura

A powerful Hurricane Ida struck Louisiana on Aug. 29, but an equally powerful Hurricane Laura wrecked southwest Louisiana a year ago, leaving marks of devastation that remain evident today in blue-tarped roofs, damaged homes and boarded-up businesses that still dot … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DvgKap

New Law Impacts Missouri Insurance Producers, Insurers

A new Missouri law that went into effect on Aug. 28 revises provisions for producer license renewals and provides opportunities toward continuing education credits for insurance professionals. It also enacts several regulatory changes affecting reinsurance, refusals to write auto insurance, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38ngvjg

Chinese Regulators Seek More Control Over Internet Firms’ Algorithms

Chinese regulators will exercise greater control over the algorithms used by Chinese technology firms to personalize and recommend content, the latest move in a regulation spree across the internet sector. China’s internet watchdog, the Cyberspace Administration of China, on Friday … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WGgnsR

Bankruptcy Judge Urges Holdout States to Settle Issues With Purdue Pharma, Sacklers

A federal bankruptcy judge on Friday urged states that oppose a settlement plan with Purdue Pharma to try to work out differences with the OxyContin maker before he issues a ruling next week. During a videoconference hearing, Judge Robert Drain … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yrcxk7

FDA Tests for PFAS Found No Need to Avoid Processed Foods

The Food and Drug Administration released the results of the first survey of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in nationally distributed processed foods. Results showed that 164 of the 167 foods tested, including baby foods, had no detectable levels of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3BpHBTy

Ransomware Has Been a ‘Game Changer’ for Cyber Insurance

Anyone who works in cyber insurance knows that the industry is never static. It’s a constantly evolving business as the risks change all the time, and this has never been more apparent than right now, said panelists for Insurance Journal’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WudAmL

China’s Regulator Probing Ping An Insurance’s Property Investments: Reuters

SHANGHAI — China’s banking and insurance sector regulator is probing Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd.’s investments in the property market, two people with knowledge of the matter said, after the firm took a big profit hit from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WyQjzJ

New York Volunteer Firefighter Killed by Reversing Fire Truck

A volunteer with the Hartland fire company was killed on Tuesday evening when a fire truck she was helping to direct reversed into her, authorities said. The Niagara County Sheriff’s office said several fire companies were responding to a fire … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zHyzAV

Pennsylvania Woman Who Coughed on Market Produce, Claimed Virus Gets Jail

A Pennsylvania woman who pleaded guilty to coughing and spitting on food at a supermarket in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic was sentenced to at least a year in jail. Margaret Ann Cirko, 37, pleaded guilty in June … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gMEr46

Feds Say $31M Manhattan Trip-and-Fall Scam Used Homeless People as Pawns

A racket in which corrupt lawyers and doctors generated over $20 million in lawsuit settlements by manipulating hundreds of homeless individuals and other desperate people to feign trip-and-fall accidents has been shut down with an indictment, authorities announced. Charges against … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XZGyLq

Companies Appealing Fines Following Georgia Nitrogen Leak That Killed Six

Three of four companies are appealing federal workplace safety fines following a January liquid nitrogen leak that killed six workers at a Georgia poultry processing plant. The U.S. Department of Labor says plant owner Foundation Food Group is contesting citations … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38v2Syp

Tesla Slams into Florida Highway Patrol Car on Autopilot

A Tesla driving in autopilot mode slammed into a Florida Highway Patrol cruiser on an interstate near downtown Orlando and narrowly missed its driver, who had pulled over to assist a disabled vehicle. Earlier this month, the U.S. government opened … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DtOeFX

Northeastern Iowa Tornado, Storms Damage Buildings, Crops

Officials in northeastern Iowa say a tornado caused significant damage, especially in the small town of Marble Rock. KCRG-TV reports that emergency management officials cited power lines and trees knocked over after a tornado touched down about 6 p.m. on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gLv0SJ

Law Firms Battle Lawsuits Calling for SPAC Regulation

The legal tussle around special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs) intensified on Friday as a group of U.S. law firms hit out against lawsuits last week that called for blank-check firms to be regulated as investment companies. SPACs are acquisition vehicles … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38o1Owr

More Sinking in Tilting San Francisco High-Rise Halts Repairs

A $100 million fix to stop a San Francisco luxury high-rise from sinking and tilting even more is on hold while engineers try to learn why the building has sunk another inch during the repair. Doug Elmets, spokesman for the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mNKXvl

Fire Damages Harry Potter ‘Birthplace’ Cafe in Scotland

A cafe in Scotland’s capital where author J.K. Rowling wrote some of the Harry Potter books has been damaged in a fire. The Elephant House in Edinburgh suffered smoke and water damage after a blaze broke out at the patisserie … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ktOHzq

Labor Force Participation Rebound Will Take Time: Research

The U.S. Federal Reserve faces a long slog if it hopes for the country’s labor force participation rate to climb back to pre-pandemic levels according to new research identifying a participation “cycle” that typically lags falling unemployment rates by nine … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UVY4z0

Nevada Jury Awards $38.8M to Family of Girl Killed by Trash Truck

A jury in Las Vegas, Nev., has awarded $38.8 million in damages to the family of an 11-year-old girl who was fatally hit by a trash truck as she walked home from school in February 2017. The Clark County District … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mGKICb

Hong Kong’s OneDegree Raises $28 Million in New Round of Funding

OneDegree, a Hong Kong-based insurance technology company, raised $28 million in a new round of funding as the startup looks to expand in Asia. Sun Hung Kai & Co. and AEF Greater Bay Area Fund took part in the series … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yv49jL

Fines, but no Jail Time for South Dakota AG in Pedestrian Death

South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg pleaded no contest on Aug. 26 to a pair of misdemeanor traffic charges over a crash last year that killed a pedestrian, avoiding jail time despite bitter complaints from the victim’s family that he … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gKYxfb

Louisiana Governor Seeks Major Disaster Declaration After Ida’s Landfall

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards has asked President Joe Biden for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration due to the severe impact from Hurricane Ida, which slammed into Louisiana’s coast on Aug. 29 in Port Fourchon as a Category 4 storm … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zu38tE

Ida’s Economic Impact Could Spread Far Beyond Gulf Coast

Hurricane Ida, with its high winds, floods and intense storm surge, not only will likely damage the energy-heavy Gulf Coast economy, its economic consequences could extend well beyond the region. The Gulf is not only a major base for oil … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ysBZWv

CoreLogic: Hurricane Ida Threatens 941K Homes with $220B in Rebuilding Cost

Severe wind, surge inundation and extended heavy rainfall endanger more than 941,000 homes with a reconstruction cost value of all at-risk homes totaling more than $220 billion, catastrophe modeling firm CoreLogic reported on Sunday. The central Louisiana coast is at … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gF0NEz

Dangerous Hurricane Ida Hits Louisiana, Poses Test for New Levees

Hurricane Ida made landfall in Louisiana on Sunday as an extremely dangerous Category 4 storm, forcing those who did not flee to brace themselves for the toughest test yet of the billions of dollars spent on levee upgrades following Hurricane … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mIZ05p

Explainer: Is Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano Going to Erupt Again?

The ground at the summit of Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has been rumbling and swelling in recent days, prompting scientists to warn that the mountain could once again disgorge lava. But there’s no indication an eruption is imminent. The volcano, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3BhDadd

Notting Hill RRG Launches Long-Term Care Facilities Program

Notting Hill Risk Retention Group, LLC has launched a new Healthcare Facilities Program designed to meet the needs of skilled nursing, residential care, assisted living and independent living facilities as well as home care and hospice facilities, The program is … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Bd25P4

Commercial Lines Sales Platform Sayata Raises $17M to Expand Beyond Cyber

Cyber insurance platform Sayata has raised $17 million in new venture capital and plans to expand to offer more specialty coverages. The startup’s platform automates the quote and bind process to help wholesale brokers and carriers quickly and easily offer … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Y4t94U

Video Shows Louisiana Trooper Pummeling Black Man

Graphic body camera video kept secret for more than two years shows a Louisiana State Police trooper pummeling a Black motorist 18 times with a flashlight – an attack the trooper defended as “pain compliance.” “I’m not resisting! I’m not … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UY8G0w

Michigan Regulators Probing Utilities over Outages That Left 1M Without Power

A Michigan commission will examine data and practices from its regulated electric companies after more than 1 million residents were left without power due to storms earlier this month. Michigan has seen multiple storms this summer, including a series of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mFayqq

Homes, Outbuildings Burned in Minnesota Blaze

Dozens of homes, cabins and outbuildings have been destroyed or damaged in northeastern Minnesota as the state’s largest wildfire continues burning uncontained, according to Superior National Forest officials. Authorities say 12 homes or cabins and 57 outbuildings have been lost … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WuS7cG

Emergency Declaration in Arizona County Due to Flood Damage

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has issued a declaration of emergency for Coconino County after heavy rain last week caused major flood damage to homes, neighborhoods and private property. Ducey said this week that damage caused by post-wildfire flooding has taken … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yrx1JE

Japan’s Fukushima Plant to Build Undersea Tunnel to Release Nuclear Water Into Ocean

The operator of the wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant said Wednesday it plans to build an undersea tunnel so that massive amounts of treated but still radioactive water can be released into the ocean about 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) away … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UT7OKx

Nirvana Sued in California by Man Who Was Nude Baby On Album Cover

A 30-year-old man who appeared nude at 4 months old in 1991 on the cover of Nirvana’s “Nevermind”album is suing the band and others, alleging the image is child pornography they have profited from. The lawsuit, filed by Spencer Elden … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3BfLx9e

California Wildfire Threatens Lake Tahoe Area

Some 14,000 firefighters facing changing weather conditions battled more than a dozen large wildfires across California, including a growing blaze that was slowly pushing toward the Lake Tahoe resort region. Winds and temperatures were expected to pick up in coming … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UY2dTi

Insured Damage From Germany’s Deadly July Floods Estimated at €7B ($8.2B)

Devastating floods in western Germany last month likely caused insured damage to the tune of about 7 billion euros ($8.2 billion), an insurance industry group said Wednesday, significantly increasing its previous estimate. More than 180 people died in Germany and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zpSiVk

How Automakers Are Navigating Differences Over COVID Vaccine Mandates

Public support for stronger measures to require COVID vaccinations is strong, according to a new Reuters/IPSOS poll, but for Detroit automakers the debate over vaccination policy is far from over. General Motors Co. said on Thursday it has required its … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jk1zsz

Ruling on Purdue Pharma Bankruptcy and Opioid Settlement Delayed Until Next Week

A U.S. judge said on Thursday he now anticipates a ruling on OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma LP’s bankruptcy reorganization plan on Wednesday of next week instead of this week because he needs more oral argument on certain issues. U.S. Bankruptcy … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kxbs5s

Microsoft Warns Thousands of Cloud Customers of Exposed Databases: Reuters

Microsoft on Thursday warned thousands of its cloud computing customers, including some of the world’s largest companies, that intruders could have the ability to read, change or even delete their main databases, according to a copy of the email and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zphBXB

Japan Vaccination Drive Faces Possible Setback Due to Contaminated Batch

A contaminant found in a batch of Moderna Inc.’s COVID-19 vaccines delivered to Japan is believed to be a metallic particle, Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported, citing sources at the health ministry. Japan on Thursday suspended the use of 1.63 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WvL97f

Online Thieves Divert $2.3M from New Hampshire Town of Peterborough

The U.S. Secret Service is investigating the theft of $2.3 million from the town of Peterborough, New Hampshire, by foreign thieves using fake email addresses. Town officials said Monday the investigation began July 26 when they learned that the ConVal … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zoqBwg

Man Charged with Shooting at Connecticut Capitol

A Connecticut man was charged Tuesday with firing multiple gunshots at the state Capitol in late May, one of several shooting incidents police believe he was involved in around the same time. No one was injured in any of the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DqrF51

Drought Disaster Relief Loans Available for Maine Businesses

Maine’s governor is calling on small businesses around the state to apply for federal disaster loans that are available because of the drought the state suffered earlier in the summer. Governor Janet Mills, a Democrat, said farm-related entities in nine … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XTsPFU

Louisiana Declares Emergency for Possible Hurricane Ida; Southeast States Also Warned

Louisiana has declared a state of emergency in preparation for what the National Hurricane Center warns could be a major hurricane. Florida, Mississippi and Alabama are also being warned to prepare for heavy rains and flooding. Tropical Storm Ida is … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DnwFax

Judge Declines Plaintiffs’ Bid to Block J&J From Offloading Talcum Liabilities

A U.S. judge declined to stop Johnson & Johnson from taking steps to offload widespread Baby Powder liabilities from the rest of its business, preserving the option for the healthcare company to move thousands of claims from people who used … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sTvvz2

Ping An Insurance Profit Falls on Land Developer Investments

Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China, China’s largest insurer by market value, reported a 15.5% fall in first-half net profit after a 20.8 billion yuan ($3.2 billion) loss suffered on investments in beleaguered developer China Fortune Land Development Co … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Y41nWb

FCA urges insurers to take action on BI claims payments

FCA director Matt Brewis sets out the regulator's supervisory strategy for insurers as he warns firms to speed up business interruption payments and follow fair value guidelines. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3mCNWGN

Global Insurance M&A Drops 3% in 1st Half of 2021: Clyde & Co. Report

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the global insurance industry dropped 3% in the first half of 2021 with 197 completed deals worldwide, down from 206 in the second half of 2020, according to Clyde & Co.’s “Insurance Growth Report” mid-year … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3BkwhYv

Final Victim of Tennessee Flooding Found; Death Toll Stands at 20

The body of the final person missing from a devastating weekend flood in Middle Tennessee was recovered on Wednesday, prompting the search for victims to be suspended as the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency toured the area. Saturday’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ksBBCn

Alabama Convention Center Explosion Caused by Natural Gas Issue

An explosion that damaged Selma’s city convention center on Monday was caused by a natural gas problem, the mayor told city leaders. The Selma Times-Journal reported that Mayor James Perkins Jr. told a City Council meeting on Tuesday that Spire, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3B8mPaO

Cruises Revise COVID Guidelines Amid Reports of Breakthrough Cases

Joel Steckler was eager for his first cruise in more than a year and a half, and he chose the ship that just two months ago became the first to accept passengers again after a long pandemic shutdown. Steckler was … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DmBu3T

Veterinarian-Turned-Insurance-Pro Sees Practitioners Thriving But Stressed

The country’s veterinarians have weathered the pandemic better than many businesses. Many were able to keep their practices operating from early on and have not had to worry about lost income like restaurant, gym and other business owners have. Veterinary … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ymJ4I0

Former Iowa Anchor Wants Age Bias Lawsuit to Change TV News

As a prominent reporter and anchor at one of Iowa’s biggest local television stations, Sonya Heitshusen was known for doggedly investigating injustices and holding the powerful accountable. A year after WHO-TV in Des Moines abruptly let her go, she is … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XQrOhR

New Mexico AG Seeks Takes More Steps to Intervene in Conservation of California Insurance Co.

New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas has retained California legal counsel on behalf of the state and filed for leave to submit an amicus curiae brief in the conservation proceedings over California Insurance Co. CIC continues to battle the imposition … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gBal3C

Report: More U.S. Residents Heading Toward Climate Change Dangers Than Away

It’s counterintuitive to run toward a fire, or any risk for that matter, but that mindest doesn’t seem to always hold. U.S. counties with the biggest proportions of homes facing high heat, drought, fire, flood and storm risk saw their … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3krQ2Xq

Opioid and Asbestos Immunity Cases Could Tilt Bankruptcy Scales Away From Victims

The billionaire owners of OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma LP and lumber giant Georgia-Pacific are in high-stakes legal battles to shed billions of dollars of liabilities in bankruptcy — the first over their company’s alleged role in America’s opioid crisis and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WuSvrC

DealerPolicy Raises $110M for Embedded Insurance for Retail Auto Sales Industry

DealerPolicy, a digital insurance marketplace for retail car sellers and buyers, announced a $110 million Series C investment led by the growth equity business within Goldman Sachs Asset Management. The Vermont-based company said the new investment will be used to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jjGuP1

56% of Insurance Companies Plan to Hire Within the Year: Jacobson

In the next 12 months, 56% of insurance companies plan to increase staff while 37% plan to maintain their current staff size, according to The Jacobson Groups’ latest labor study. Technology, claims and operations roles are expected to see the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zkk59D

NRA Canceling Annual Meeting in Texas Because of COVID

The National Rifle Association announced it has canceled its annual meeting, which had been set to be held next month in Houston, due to concerns over COVID-19. The NRA’s meeting had been set for Sept. 3 through Sept. 5 and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38fgSfF

Louisiana Hospital System Will Require Employees to Get Vaccinated

Louisiana’s largest hospital system, Ochsner Health, said that it is requiring all of its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 29. The announcement came a day after the Pfizer vaccine received full approval from the Food and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kvf47U

Scientists Detected Earthquake Swarm at Hawaii Volcano

Geologists said they had detected a swarm of earthquakes at Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano, though it is not erupting. The quakes began overnight on Tuesday and continued into the morning, The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said. More than 140 earthquakes were recorded … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ktwu56

US Golf Association Employee Charged in Embezzlement Scheme

A former United States Golf Association employee has been charged in a scheme to embezzle funds from the unauthorized sale of U.S. Open Championship tickets, Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams announced Tuesday. According to a statement released by … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DmLWso

Animal Shelter Facing Human Staffing Woes

MUNCIE, Ind. — A van load of new arrivals were backed into the receiving dock at Muncie Animal Care and Services and, as shelter workers opened the vehicle’s doors, its passengers erupted into a chattering chorus. “Hi!” “Pretty bird!” “What … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jixQjG

Veterinarians Are Tired, Short-Staffed and Burned Out

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — During the gloomiest stretches of the pandemic, Dr. Diona Krahn’s veterinary clinic has been a puppy fest, overrun with new four-legged patients. Typically, she’d get three or four new puppies a week, but between shelter adoptions … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DltTm7

Fire Crews Battle Blaze at Former Philadelphia Refinery Site

Fire crews battled a blaze at the site of a former refinery in south Philadelphia that was the scene of a huge blaze two years ago. Police said fire crews were called just after 12:30 p.m. Monday to the former … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Wt0xl7

Case of 76 in Massachusetts Veterans Home Who Died of COVID Lands in Court

Two former top officials at a Massachusetts veterans home where nearly 80 residents died in one of the country’s deadliest COVID-19 outbreaks in a long-term care facility appeared in court Tuesday in an effort to have their criminal charges dismissed. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38gezJy

What Insurance Firms Promised at White House Cybersecurity Summit

Four insurance firms — Travelers, Coalition, Resilience Cyber Solutions and Vantage Group— were among the participants in the White House summit on cybersecurity along with giant technology firms and Biden Administration officials. “The federal government can’t meet this challenge alone,” … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Dd4ZFk

KCC Estimates Insured Loss From Hurricane Grace: $300M in Mexico, $30M in Caribbean

Catastrophe modeling firm the Karen Clark & Company (KCC) estimates that the insured loss to onshore properties from Hurricane Grace will be around $330 million—$300 million in Mexico and $30 million in the Caribbean. The estimate is based on the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zlGJyC

Jury Denies Damages in Montana Wrongful Death Lawsuit

A federal jury has denied a damage award to the family of a Livingston, Mont., man who was shot and killed by police in January 2016. The estate of Sean Patrick O’Brien filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the City … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jgChLO

No Official Determination of Cyberattack Method in Arizona

An investigation into a cyberattack targeting Kingman, Ariz., has concluded after finding that sensitive information involving approximately 200 people apparently was compromised but making no official determination of how the breach occurred, officials said. The Feb. 26 attack knocked down … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zhS7eI

Charges Filed in Crash That Killed Two in Wisconsin

A Milwaukee, Wis., man accused of drag racing and causing a crash that killed two people has been charged with reckless homicide. According to a criminal complaint, witnesses told police it appeared a car driven by 25-year-old Michael Howard was … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kobXii

$40M in Hurricane Laura Repairs at Louisiana College

A southwest Louisiana community college says it has nearly completed more than $40 million in repairs and rebuilding needed because of damage from last year’s Hurricane Laura. The need for skilled workers to repair buildings around the area has boosted … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mCqdGP

Openly Brings Home Insurance Offering to Missouri

Openly is up and running in Missouri, enabling independent insurance agents to access Openly’s coverage and obtain quotes. Missouri marks the 12th state in Openly’s nationwide expansion. Openly says it plans to continue its expansion state by state, with more … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DehlgF

People Moves: Insurtech Joyn Adds Schoberth; Chubb’s Lubin Joins Crum & Forster; TransRe Promotes O’Gwen; AXA XL’s Klimczak Moves to U.S.

Insurtech Joyn Adds Schoberth as Chief Distribution Officer Insurance technology company Joyn Insurance announced the addition of Uwe Schoberth as chief distribution officer. The role will focus on developing broker relationships. Uwe brings a background in commercial insurance, having held … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38hRDcw

Biden Orders Disaster Declaration After Tennessee Flooding

President Joe Biden has approved a major disaster declaration sought by Tennessee after record rainfall caused devastating floods that killed at least 22 people, according to a statement sent Tuesday. The action frees up federal aid to help with recovery … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Bg0Ej5

Guidewire Acquires Property Risk Data Firm HazardHub

Insurance technology firm Guidewire Software said it has acquired HazardHub, an insurtech provider of property risk data to the property/casualty insurance industry for underwriting, marketing and claims. HazardHub’s data is delivered in a national catalog of risks that may damage … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sM1AbH

People Moves: Incline in Texas Makes Series of Hires, Promotion

Incline P&C Group in Austin, Texas, made several new hires and a promotion within the company. Sheel J. Patel will join as chief financial officer and Sameer Khanbwill join as chief risk officer. Additionally, Cesar Gregorio will join as controller … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DrRnX4

Illinois Gives Pie Approval to Acquire Western Select

Pie Carrier Holdings has received regulatory approval from the Illinois Department of Insurance to acquire Western Select Insurance Co. from a subsidiary of Premia Holdings Ltd. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The proposed acquisition represents a step by … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Dlboyy

Lawsuit: Teens Sexually Assaulted in Illinois School Team Hazing

The parents of two teenage boys filed a federal lawsuit Monday alleging their sons were sexually assaulted in a hazing tradition by older players on their suburban Chicago, Ill., high school football team, and that three adult coaches were aware … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jdNiO4

Firefighter Dies While Working Oregon Wildfire, Officials Say

A firefighter died this week while battling a wildfire southeast of Eugene, Oregon, officials said. Bryan Cutchen, Oakridge city administrator and acting fire chief, said the death is suspected to have been caused by a tree falling on the firefighter, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ylEbyV

California College Data Breach Exposes Student Requests for Vaccine Exemptions

Personal information from students at a California college who requested a religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine has been posted online after an apparent data breach. The records from about 130 students at California State University, Chico were dumped on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3klXXp7

Startup Raises $60M to Flag Infrastructure Damage, Injuries Before They Happen

Startup Urbint, which promises its software can identify utility and telecommunications industry failures, damages, and worker injuries before they happen, has raised $60 million. Urbint CEO and founder Corey Capasso said the funding is timely, hitting as Congress contemplates massive … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3B9O3h3

New York Man Charged in $9M Fraud Conspiracy

A Brooklyn, New York, man was charged for conspiring to defraud the IRS, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced. Aleksander Zaretser is charged by indictment with conspiracy to defraud the IRS. He will be arraigned on a date to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sN565V

Brown & Brown of Massachusetts to Acquire Berkshire Insurance Group

Berkshire Hills Bancorp Inc. and Brown & Brown Inc. announced the execution of a definitive agreement for the sale of the assets and operations of Berkshire Insurance Group, Inc. (BIG), a subsidiary of Berkshire Hills, to Brown & Brown of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Dfcgof

Cleanup Begins in Soggy Northeast as Henri Plods Back to Sea

Residents across the waterlogged Northeast began clearing mud and tearing out sodden carpets Monday after deluges dropped by Tropical Storm Henri, whose remnants threatened further flooding in New England as the system made a slow trek back to the sea. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zjVCBg

People Moves: Howden Names Willis’ Everling as CEO Netherlands, Corporate; Carpenter’s Christian to BMS Re; Aon Reins Hires TigerRisk’s Jackson in U.S.

This edition of International/Reinsurance People Moves details appointments at three brokers: Howden, BMS Re and Aon with roles in the Netherlands and the U.S. A summary of these new hires follows here. Howden Appoints Willis’ Everling as CEO Netherlands, Corporate … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gyD7Sl

‘Be Honest’: New Transportation Safety Chief Warns Robot-Car Claims Erode Public Trust

The nation’s new chief accident investigator wants to send a message: growing public confusion over automated driving systems in the U.S. is threatening to undermine the potential safety benefits of the technology. Jennifer Homendy took the reins as chairwoman of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jilV5z

UK Insurers Warned They Could Face Reguatory Action Over Car, Home Policies

LONDON – Insurers in Britain that are not ready to implement tougher “value for money” rules on car and home policies could face disciplinary action, the Financial Conduct Authority said on Wednesday. The FCA found in May that loyal customers … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XVPC45

FCA slams firms for “weakness” over fair value rules

The watchdog highlighted broker remuneration as an issue and said that many firms might not be ready to implement incoming product governance rules. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3jfg5l8

Insurtech ELEMENT and MGA Parametrix Launch Cloud Outage Insurance in Europe

ELEMENT, the Berlin-based insurtech, announced a partnership with managing general agent, Parametrix Insurance, launching parametric cloud outage insurance for companies in Germany. The product is designed to cover financial losses due to downtime of third-party IT and cloud infrastructure providers. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kkKjmo

China’s Cities Aren’t Prepared for Extreme Weather Caused by Climate Change

Climate change is making China’s annual summer floods worse, and cities housing millions of people aren’t prepared to handle the damage. Record-breaking rainfall in the central province of Henan killed more than 300 people last month, while downpours continue to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yanJ4E

Washington Man Who Faked Job Injury Pleads Guilty in Workers’ Comp Scam

A Thurston County, Wash., man who reportedly tried to pass off a barroom brawl injury as a workplace accident has pleaded guilty to stealing state workers’ compensation insurance benefits. Chuck Wayne Riccio, 40, of Yelm, pleaded guilty Tuesday to third-degree … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38cRwis

Texas Coastal Windstorm Insurance Coalition Celebrates 50 Years

The Coastal Windstorm Insurance Coalition in Texas is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Established originally as the Windstorm Action Committee in Galveston, the coalition has expanded in recent years to include representatives from coastal communities along the Texas Coast. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zhnFkT

M4 Earthquake Confirmed in Southeastern California

An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 4.0 shook an agricultural area of southeastern California early Monday, the U.S. Geological Survey confirmed. The quake struck at 7:57 a.m. south of the Salton Sea, about 7 miles north of Westmorland, the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3B8aMtZ

Ohio Coaster Dropped Metal Plate, Injuring Woman

A piece of metal that flew off the world’s second-tallest roller coaster and hit a woman in the head while she stood in line came from the back of the ride’s train and was about the size of a fist, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mu06So

Massive 2016 Flood Still Defines South Louisiana Parish

Jennifer Carnevale’s yard can hold 23 inches of water before her house floods. She knows because her family has seen the water cross that all-important threshold, twice. “We’ve measured it,” the 46-year-old mom of three said. Their home in Country … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sNrDzw

Agency Partnership News Wrap-Up: Smart Choice, United Valley Insurance Services, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance, Keystone Insurers Group

Smart Choice Agents Program Smart Choice Agents Program, an agency network with over 8,700 independent agents and 100 carrier partners, reported that 631 agents were selected to join the partnership network during first half of 2021. Smart Choice also added … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DfjHvx

Reinsurance Prices Expected to Harden at Jan. 2022 Renewals – with Less Momentum

Global reinsurers’ underwriting performance will continue to improve in 2022 as premium rate increases take hold, with further rate hikes expected as a result of higher catastrophe losses, continued low interest rates and mounting inflation concerns, according to Fitch Ratings … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kCi6rp

Q&A on Fire Risk of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Electric Vehlcles

General Motors Co. has expanded the recall of its Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles due to a risk of fire from the pouch-type lithium-ion battery cells made by South Korea’s LG. The recall, the second major one involving batteries made by … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sVZfeF

North Carolina Flooding Claims Five Victims

Officials have found a fifth person dead after flooding in western North Carolina. Haywood County Emergency Services announced in a Facebook post that they found the fifth victim, Frank Lauer Sr., 74, of Cruso on Sunday. It was the fifth … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jaf6CO

Man Sues Nebraska Sheriff After Pepper Ball Blinded Him

An Iowa man is suing an eastern Nebraska county, its sheriff and several deputies, saying their lack of training led one of the deputies to shoot him in the eye with a pepper ball during a protest last year. Adam … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3B54Q4Y

Illinois County Settles with Nurse Over COVID Request

A southern Illinois county agreed to pay a nurse $35,000 to settle her lawsuit alleging she was fired for refusing to tell local law enforcement which residents had tested positive for the coronavirus. The payment to nurse Diane Kuhl is … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gwgf5Z

Mulch Eyed as Erosion Control Following Colorado Wildfires

An aerial landscaping team has taken flight in the mountains west of Fort Collins, Colo. Its landing site sits in a broad field at the base of Poudre Canyon. Every few minutes, a helicopter arrives to lift a net loaded … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kmCXOZ

California Firefighters Battling a Dozen Large Blazes

More than 13,500 firefighters were working Monday to contain a dozen large California wildfires that have destroyed hundreds of homes and forced thousands of people to flee to safety. After an extensive review of fire damage, Gov. Gavin Newsom requested … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3B5KmJq

People Moves: Coomer Joins Swiss Re’s iptiQ as CTOO; COGITANDA Hires Gerety from Liberty Specialty as Chief Ins. Officer; Ki Names Hodgson 1st CTO

This edition of International People Moves details technology appointments at Swiss Re’s iptiQ and the digital Lloyd’s syndicate Ki as well as an appointment at German cyber risk management and insurance solutions provider COGITANDA. A summary of these new hires … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sJALVI

People Moves: New Hires at Verisk, LL Global; RT Specialty Promotes Amara

Verisk Names Holzer as Executive VP, Chief Human Resources Officer Verisk, a global data analytics provider, appointed Sunita Holzer as executive vice president and chief human resources officer (CHRO). Bringing three decades of human resources leadership experience across relevant industries, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gvfLwV

Jury Nixes Claims Against Air Rescue Firm in Fatal Accident

A federal jury has rejected negligence and warranty claims against an air rescue company that was sued by the family of a Delaware firefighter who died after falling from a helicopter during a training exercise. The jury ruled Thursday that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sJKgUN

Henri Hurls Rain as System Settles Atop Swamped Northeast

The slow-rolling storm system named Henri was expected to continue drenching the Northeast with rain Monday with a slated turn to the east from upstate New York back through New England. The National Weather Service in Boston said torrential downpours … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DdwRsR

‘Hey, Insurance Industry: What About Us?’ Ask Small Businesses as Satisfaction Wanes

Insurance carriers and agents may want to pay more attention to small business insurance customers, especially those with commercial auto and workers’ compensation policies. They’re feeling neglected. According to the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Small Commercial Insurance Study a lack … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yg8qrb

Cyber Attacks Make Working from Home Costly for German Businesses: Report

Working from home during the pandemic cost German companies some 53 billion euros ($62 billion) worth of damages from cyber attacks, according to estimates by the Cologne Institute for Economic Research. Overall damages hit a record 224 billion euros last … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yg8neZ

Hub International Agrees to Buy Aviva Canada Unit, National Home Warranty Group

Hub International Ltd., the Chicago-based insurance broker, announced that it has signed a purchase agreement to acquire the assets of National Home Warranty Group Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Aviva Canada Inc. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sM0tJk

Call Center Humans vs. Automation: How to Make Inertia Work for Firms and Customers

In the digital age, service center operations, including call centers and help desks, are increasingly important to organizations for interacting with their customers. Companies are looking for ways to manage service centers more efficiently — including routing calls to appropriate … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Bm1rz5

SEC Eyes Rules for Financial Firms’ Digital Engagement Practices: Reuters

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will seek input on whether digital customer engagement innovations used by financial firms should be governed by existing rules or may need new ones, commission chair Gary Gensler told Reuters. While the SEC’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3D9dlxX

New Wildfires Break Out on Greece’s Evia Island

ATHENS, Greece (AP) – Greece’s fire department scrambled firefighting aircraft and ground forces as at least two new blazes broke out in areas already scarred by wildfires this summer, with strong winds complicating efforts to contain them. The first broke … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3B9qO6O

Bankruptcy Judge Says Purdue Pharma’s Sacklers Face ‘Substantial’ Liability Risk

The judge overseeing Purdue Pharma’s bankruptcy said on Monday that some members of the Sackler family who own the OxyContin maker face a “substantial risk” of liability and could be on the hook for “huge amounts of money” over claims … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sH7X00

6 States Opt Not to Sign $26B Opioid Settlements with Distributors, J&J

At least six U.S. states, including Georgia, have decided they will not fully sign on to a proposed $26 billion settlement with three drug distributors and Johnson & Johnson, which have been accused of fueling the nation’s opioid epidemic, according … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gsPjUO

Tennessee Rescue Search Continues After Historic Flooding

At least 22 people were killed and rescue crews searched desperately amid shattered homes and tangled debris for dozens of people still missing after record-breaking rain sent floodwaters surging through Middle Tennessee. Saturday’s flooding in rural areas took out roads, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XHKYX8

Alliant Acquires Northern California-Based ASURA Risk

Alliant Insurance Services has acquired Northern California-based ASURA Risk in San Ramon, Calif. Kevin Kilty, principal with ASURA Risk, along with fellow principals Greg Miller and Jon Wheeler, and the entire ASURA team, will join Alliant and continue servicing clients … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3grUeFw

FDA Grants Full Approval to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

The U.S. drug regulator on Monday granted full approval to the Pfizer Inc/BioNTech SE COVID-19 vaccine, making it the first to secure such Food and Drug Administration validation as health authorities struggle to win over vaccine skeptics during a relentless … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zbhVZT

People Moves: Aon Reinsurance Appoints 6; TigerRisk Hires Edwards from Lloyd’s; Nexus Names Tan Head of Treaty; Riveros to AXIS Re for Credit & Surety

This edition of International People Moves details reinsurance-related appointments at two brokers: Aon Reinsurance Solutions and TigerRisk as well as MGA Nexus and AXIS Re. A summary of these new hires follows here. Aon Transforms Reinsurance Solutions Team with 6 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3D7YK5H

Prosecutors in Louisiana Reach $2M Settlement with Exonerated Man

Local prosecutors have reached a $2 million settlement with a New Orleans man who spent 23 years in prison before being cleared on charges including rape and manslaughter. “I welcome this measure of justice after so many years,” Robert Jones, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W9oqhP

Judge: California Ridesharing Law Is Unconstitutional

A judge Friday struck down a California ballot measure that exempted Uber and other app-based ride-hailing and delivery services from a state law requiring drivers to be classified as employees eligible for benefits and job protections. Alameda County Superior Court … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sGiSHk

Applied Sets Acquisition Completion of Alaska Timber Insurance Exchange

Applied Underwriters anticipates completing the acquisition of Alaska Timber Insurance Exchange as soon as the fourth quarter of 2021 as ATIE concludes its conversion from a reciprocal to a stock insurance company having received regulatory approval this past week. An … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3j65r0a

OSHA Proposes $1.3M in Penalties Over Massachusetts Worker Deaths

Federal workplace safety regulators on Wednesday proposed $1.3 million in penalties for the construction company that employed two men who died when they were struck by a dump truck and pushed into a 9-foot deep trench at a sewer project … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sHO8FH

Biden Administration Sanctions Russian Insurer for Nord Stream 2 Report

The Biden administration imposed sanctions on two Russian entities over their involvement in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project, but is leaving in place a waiver that spared the company overseeing the construction and its top executive. The U.S. listed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zdB7pQ

Alera Group Acquires Third-Party Administrator Related Risk

Alera Group, an independent, national insurance and wealth management firm, acquired Related Risk, a third-party administrator (TPA) that helps insurance companies and employers generate new premiums and profits by accelerating product speed-to-market while ensuring compliance with emerging and evolving statutory … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/385AcvN

P/C Insurers Boosted Underwriting Net Income 28% in First Half of Year: AM Best

The U.S. property/casualty industry grew its net underwriting income by 28% in the first six months of 2021 compared with the same prior-year period. According to a new AM Best report, a 5.4% growth in net earned premiums and 55.3% … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WaxqDq

Rain Falls at Highest Point on Greenland’s Ice Sheet for 1st Time on Record

Rain fell at the highest point on the Greenland ice sheet last week for the first time on record, another worrying sign of warming for the ice sheet already melting at an increasing rate, scientists said on Friday. “That’s not … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gqRXKz

It Turns Out That Humans Are Secret Weapon for Autonomous Vehicle Startups

Self-driving startups like Cruise and Pony.ai have begun testing their driverless cars in some parts of California in the past year, with an additional feature: Human operators. While there is no driver behind the wheel, the passenger seat is occupied … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3B77F5M

Boy Scouts Delays Bankruptcy Step After Judge Questions Legal Fees, Insurer Deal

Attorneys for the Boy Scouts of America are postponing a key bankruptcy hearing that was scheduled to start this week, following a court ruling that casts uncertainty on the future of the case. Attorneys on Friday filed court papers postponing … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WfjAzm

Greece Wildfire Destroys Jobs of Pine Resin Collectors

AGDINES, Greece (AP) – For generations, residents in the north of the Greek island of Evia have made their living from the dense pine forests surrounding their villages. Tapping the ubiquitous Aleppo pines for their resin, the viscous, sticky substance … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3883fig

Storm Henri Causes Flooding, Power Outages in Northeast; Heavy Rains to Continue

Henri is soaking the U.S. Northeast with rain and disrupting transport after being downgraded to a tropical depression. The former hurricane will produce additional rainfall of 1 to 3 inches, with locally higher amounts possible, over portions of Long Island, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WgReow

T-Mobile Now Says Data Breach Affects More Than 50 Million Customers

T-Mobile US Inc. said on Friday an ongoing investigation into a data breach revealed that hackers accessed personal information of an additional 5.3 million customers, bringing the total number of people affected to more than 53 million. The third largest … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kjVKKL

UK Broker Tysers Launches Platform for End-to-End Digital Processing, Called Tconnect

Tysers, the London-based insurance broker, has launched Tconnect – a cross-functional, cloud-based platform designed to consolidate processes and automate the end-to-end lifecycle of a policy. The launch of Tconnect represents a significant milestone in Tysers’ digital transformation program to modernize … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kgIUwZ

GM Recall Due to Fire Risk Covers All Chevrolet Bolts

General Motors said Friday it is recalling all Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles sold worldwide to fix a battery problem that could cause fires. The recall and others raise questions about lithium ion batteries, which now are used in nearly all … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z5LNXH

Insured Losses from European Floods Estimated at $6 Billion-$7.7 Billion: RMS

RMS, the Newark, Calif.-based catastrophe modeling company, estimates that insured losses from the Western and Central Europe flooding, which occurred between July 12 and 18, 2021, will likely range between €5 billion and €6.5 billion (US$6 billion and US$7.7 billion). … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sJ4YUL

Canada’s Five Biggest Banks to Require Their Employees to Be Fully Vaccinated

TORONTO – Canada’s five biggest banks are mandating that employees working from their offices must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 this fall, taking a firmer stance than some of their U.S. counterparts and some other Canadian companies. Royal Bank of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sCCRqp

Giant Container Ship, Which Blocked the Suez in March, Again Crosses the Canal

ISMAILIA, Egypt – The giant container ship Ever Given, which blocked the Suez canal for six days in March, crossed the waterway on Friday for the first time since it left Egypt after the incident. The ship, en route from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Wh9NZe

Catastrophic Flooding Leaves Eight Dead in Tennessee

Catastrophic flooding in Middle Tennessee left at least eight dead and dozens missing Saturday as rains washed away homes and rural roads, authorities said. Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis told news outlets more than 30 people have been reported missing. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3DcTE88

Hurricane Grace Crosses Mexico, Killing at Least 8 People

Hurricane Grace crossed through Mexico on Saturday, leaving at least eight people dead, causing floods and power cuts to more than half a million customers, before losing force as it swept toward the country’s Pacific coast. The storm entered Mexico … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3834XRZ

Former Alabama Officer Sentenced 25 Years for Killing Suicidal Man

A judge sentenced a former Alabama police officer to 25 years in prison Friday for the shooting death of a suicidal man who was holding a gun to his own head. Former Huntsville police officer William “Ben” Darby was convicted … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3kjuY5g

Florida Cybersecurity Agency Hampered by Vacancies

Gov. Ron DeSantis’ new technology office is supposed to resolve the state’s longtime tech woes and lead the state’s defense against cybersecurity threats. A year into its inception, the office is struggling. In the last several months, the new Florida … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mlIo3z

Forest Service: Lightning Caused Minnesota Wildfire

A wildfire in the Superior National Forest of northeastern Minnesota has grown to 6 1/4 square miles (16 square kilometers), but U.S. Forest Service officials said on Aug. 19 that it grew little overnight. The Forest Service said lightning caused … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sExc2S

Flood-Weakened Tracks a ‘Probable Cause’ in 2019 Fort Worth Train Derailment

Federal officials say a train that derailed and caught fire in Fort Worth in 2019 was traveling on tracks that had been weakened by flooding after days of rain. The National Transportation Safety Board said in an accident report released … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sENrwT

1 Person Dies in DUI Accident Every 9 Hours in Texas, Officials Say

Last year there were 963 driving under the influence (DUI) alcohol-related traffic fatalities in Texas. That means on average, a person in Texas dies every nine hours and six minutes as a result of a traffic crash involving alcohol, according … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3goNKqG

People Moves: Harrington to VP at GJS Re; Kansas Association of Insurance Agents Adds Werth

GJS Re Insurance and reinsurance veteran Chris Harrington joined the Los Angeles-based reinsurance intermediary G. J. Sullivan Co., Reinsurance, as vice president. Based in Chicago, Harrington will report to John Threlfall, senior vice president and head of facultative. Harrington brings … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3j4Mn2m

Michigan Issues C&D Order Against Aliera Companies, Connected Businesses

Michigan insurance regulators issued a cease and desist order against a healthcare sharing ministry and two connected companies for allegedly acting in violation of the state’s insurance code. In a media release, Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3goUIfq

People Moves: Lockton Names Michon President in California; Alliant Adds Racunas

Lockton Insurance Brokers LLC named Alex Michon president of its Sacramento, Calif., operations. Michon specializes in managed care and multinational organizations that require complex regulatory compliance. Michon has nearly three decades of experience in the commercial insurance industry. He joined … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2WkYFee

State Fund Offering Credit Extension to Policyholders Impacted by California Wildfires

California’s State Compensation Insurance Fund is offering a 30-day credit extension to policyholders affected by wildfires currently burning in Northern California counties declared states of emergency by Gov.Gavin Newsom. The counties are Alpine, Butte, El Dorado, Lassen, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gkE1SB

Wyoming Marijuana Signature Effort to Begin in Early September

Wyoming marijuana advocates plan to begin circulating petitions in September for two proposed ballot measures – one asking if the state should legalize medical marijuana, and the other if it should decriminalize pot. The Wyoming Attorney General’s Office this week … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mlcJiw

Former California Agent Allegedly Stole $1.2M from Elderly Consumers

Formerly licensed insurance agent Robert Stoddard, 66, of San Clemente, Calif., was arrested this week after a California Department of Insurance investigation found he allegedly stole $1.2 million from more than 20 victims, including 14 seniors. Stoddard is being charged … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UFFbjW

Judge Grants Conditional Approval for Boy Scouts Sex Abuse Bankruptcy Plan

The Boy Scouts of America has received a green light from a judge to proceed with its $850 million reorganization plan to exit bankruptcy and settle more than 80,000 claims brought by victims of sexual abuse. The ruling by U.S. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z8XJbk

Effective Sept. 1 All Auto Insurers in Texas Must File Rates with Actuarial Support

A bill that becomes effective in Texas repeals a section of the state’s insurance code that allows certain auto insurers to file rates with the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) without providing actuarial support or justification for those rates. Senate … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3j2lMmo

Texas Summarizes Workers’ Comp Bills Passed in 2021

Several bills passed in the Texas Legislature this year impact the state’s workers’ compensation insurance system. Below, the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) summarizes selected bills enacted by the 87th Legislature that affect workers’ compensation and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3816AzO

Some Rural Midwest Bankers Concerned About Drought’s Impact on Business

The economy continues to grow in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states, according to a new monthly survey of bankers in the region, but some bankers in the region are worried that worsening drought could threaten their operations. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W51XC1

Willis Towers Watson Promotes Mead to Canadian Property/Casualty Broking Leader

Insurance broker Willis Towers Watson announced that Kate Mead is the new head of its Canadian property/casualty broking team. Previously Willis Towers Watson’s practice leader for the Midwest, Northeast U.S. & Canadian Environmental business, Mead will now focus on strengthening … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3D1klg5

People Moves: Former Willis Re CTO Joins Placement Platform Supercede; Sedgwick Hires Cordingley for Event Response in Australia, Cooper for Asia Biz Development

Reinsurance Placement Platform Supercede Hires Former Willis Re CTO Supercede, the London-based global reinsurance placement platform, announced the appointment of Aydin Betez, formerly chief technology officer of Willis Re, to lead the development of its cloud-based digital ecosystem, built for … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y3QEaz

Florida-Based King Insurance Acquires Robert Blakeley

King Insurance, a full-service insurance brokerage firm that provides a variety of property & casualty as well as employee benefits solutions, has acquired Robert Blakeley Insurance. Robert Blakeley, based in Leesburg, Fla., has been insuring businesses and individuals in central … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3D7P5wa

Six Maryland Law Enforcement Officers Facing Fraud-Related Charges

Six Maryland law enforcement officers are facing federal indictment for charges related to schemes to defraud financial institutions and insurance companies. A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging an officer for the Fairmount Heights Police Department, the Anne … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y5085a

Maine Enacts Law That Will Ban Use of ‘Forever Chemicals’ in All Products by 2030

Maine last month enacted a law that makes it the first U.S. state to ban the use of PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, in nearly all products. PFAS are commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” because of their inability … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z6P5Ka

California Wildfire Season Setting a Record, More Damage Expected

Smoke from California’s wildfires choked people on the East Coast. Flames wiped out a Gold Rush-era town. The acreage burned would dwarf the state of Rhode Island. Images of homes engulfed in flames and mountains glowing like lava would make … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z5Ugdw

Lawsuit Filed in Wyoming Says Mixup Kept Family at Gunpoint

Yellowstone National Park rangers and Wyoming sheriff’s deputies seeking a murder suspect held a vacationing family at gunpoint for an hour without adequate cause, a lawsuit claims. Brett and Genalyn Hemry, of Independence, Missouri, say they are victims of false … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z4K4C7

Nevada Senator Wants Ideas to Address Wildfire Smoke

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto is urging firefighters, scientists, teachers and moms to help form new strategies to deal with increasingly unhealthy air quality in Nevada caused by wildfires that continue to worsen and no relief in sight in the years … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3k9FX1g

‘Best Agency to Work For’ Nominations Open: Submit Now

Is your independent insurance agency a Best Place to Work? If so, why not nominate your agency as a “Best Agency to Work For” in 2021? To nominate your agency, you must be a current employee of the agency you … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XKuvSb

AM Best Assigns ‘B++’ (Good) Credit Rating to Bermuda-Based ASR Re Ltd.

AM Best has assigned a Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb+” (Good) to Bermuda-based ASR Re Ltd. (ASR Re). ASR Re is a wholly owned subsidiary of ASR Holdings Ltd., the non-operating … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3AXVpo2

Tropical Storm Henri Could Strike New York, New England as Hurricane Starting Sunday

Tropical Storm Henri is set to grow into a hurricane before slamming the U.S. Northeast anywhere from Long Island to Massachusetts, bringing heavy rain, a flooding storm surge and thrashing winds to the region starting Sunday. Hurricane watches have been … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y3hnEi

Digital Auto Insurer Root Will Add Independent Agents to Its Distribution

Digital auto insurer Root saw its loss ratio spike in the 2021 second quarter as higher costs for repairs, used vehicles and miles driven rose above pre-pandemic levels. But the Ohio-based insurer continues to report growth in its premium volume, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mh3DDB

Climate Activists Plan 2 Weeks of Protest in City of London

Environmental activists who caused days of traffic chaos in London two years ago said on Wednesday [Aug. 18] they would start a fortnight of action next week focused on the capital’s financial district, which they blame for helping to fuel … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iZVotA

FCA updates dual pricing rules

Regulator releases policy statement with updates and clarifications to its GI pricing rules following feedback, but highlights that the changes do not affect its desired outcomes. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3mf2koF

Mosaic and DXC Technology Launch Technology Platform for Specialty Insurance

Mosaic Insurance and DXC Technology announced the launch of an insurance technology platform that increases the speed at which specialty insurance is sold, underwritten and serviced. Together with DXC’s business-process expertise and technology, Mosaic, the Bermuda-based specialty insurer, aims to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gfZa0c

Russia’s Nord Stream Pipeline 99% Complete, but Insurance Needed Before Gas Flows

A controversial Russian pipeline to Europe can deliver its first batches of natural gas to Germany this year, according to Gazprom PJSC. The Nord Stream 2 link can ship 5.6 billion cubic meters of the fuel in 2021, the Russian … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y34kma

Louisiana’s Orleans Parish to Pay $2M to Exonerated Man in Settlement

Kansas City Police to Pay $200K in Settlement With Demonstrator

A man who suffered a compound fracture to his leg when he was hit by a tear gas canister during racial injustice protests last summer has received a $200,000 settlement from the Kansas City, Missouri, police department. The man did … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gjk0eT

Early COVID-19 Vaccinations Prevented 140,000 Deaths: Study

A new study by Indiana University and RAND Corp. assessed the impact of COVID-19 vaccinations and found that 139,393 deaths were prevented during the first five months of vaccination efforts in the United States. With COVID-19 cases again on the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/380VRFn

With Federal Legalization Expected, Cannabis Insurers Quietly Get Ready to Roll

Insurers are quietly gearing up for a potential ten-fold increase in sales to the booming $17.6 billion-a-year cannabis industry as Congress inches closer to legalizing pot at the federal level. While 36 U.S. states and the District of Columbia have … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mjewoy

California Commissioner Issues Non-Renewal Moratorium to Aid Policyholders Affected by Wildfires

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara on Thursday issued a mandatory one-year moratorium on insurance companies from non-renewing or cancelling residential property insurance policies. The action is intended to aid more than 25,000 policyholders who have been affected by the Lava … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3D1NDeI

Texas Takes 1.6K Commercial Vehicles Off the Road After International Roadcheck

Texas public safety officials said on Aug. 18 that an inspection of 6,288 commercial motor vehicles in the state resulted in more than 1,000 citations, over 18,500 warnings and more than 1,600 vehicles taken out of service for safety violations. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3su7kH0

Hackers Steal More Than $94M from Japanese Cryptocurrency Exchange

Japanese cryptocurrency exchange Liquid said on Thursday it was hit by hackers in a theft estimated at more than $94 million, the latest crypto platform to be targeted by cyber criminals. “We are sorry to announce that #LiquidGlobal warm wallets … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3AWpep2

Wildfire Grows to 5 Square Miles in Northeastern Minnesota

A wildfire in the Superior National Forest of northeastern Minnesota has grown to 5 square miles (13 square kilometers) as hot, dry and windy conditions persist, officials said. U.S. Forest Service and other crews have been fighting the fire from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z2zFGW

Outlooks Revised to Positive for Oklahoma’s National American Insurance

AM Best revised the outlooks to positive from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” (Excellent) of National American Insurance Co. (NAICO) in Chandler, Oklahoma. Established in 1987, NAICO … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3surh0x

Europe Reinsurers’ H1 Profits Climb on Lower COVID Claims, Hardening Prices: Moody’s

The four largest European based reinsurers – Munich Re, Swiss Re, Hannover Re and SCOR – reported sharply higher profits in the first half of 2021, compared with the same period in 2020 — as a result of lower COVID-19 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XuROPF

Broker Willis Alleges Unlawful ‘Raid’ on Employees, Clients by Competitor Alliant

Insurance brokerage competitors Willis Towers Watson and Alliant Insurance Services are battling in court over what Willis alleges is a conspiracy by Alliant to steal its employees, trade secrets and clients. Willis maintains that this past July Alliant orchestrated a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UuRcZc

Alaska School District Agrees to Settle Abuse Lawsuit for $3.8M

An Alaska school district agreed to pay $3.8 million to two children abused by a former principal who said school leaders had been “well aware of my problems with young girls” for years, news outlets reported. Christopher Carmichael, an elementary … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sDZ1IU

Judge Tosses Most Claims in Oregon Armed Occupation Death Suit

A federal judge has tossed most of the civil claims brought in a wrongful death lawsuit by the family of an Arizona rancher who served as spokesperson for the armed takeover of Oregon’s Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in early 2016. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W3dim6

California Drought Hurting World’s Top Almond Producer

As temperatures recently reached triple digits, farmer Joe Del Bosque inspected the almonds in his parched orchard in California’s agriculture-rich San Joaquin Valley, where a deepening drought threatens one of the state’s most profitable crops. Del Bosque doesn’t have enough … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37UbT3W

New Jersey Domestic Violence Victim Suing Prosecutor Over Being Named

A New Jersey woman who killed her abusive ex-fiance can proceed with a lawsuit that claims her rights as a domestic violence victim were violated when a county prosecutor publicly identified her, an appeals court ruled Tuesday. The suit alleges … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mblCeC

Workers at Massachusetts Veterans’ Home at Center of COVID-19 Outbreak Sue

Employees of the Massachusetts veterans’ home at the center of a devastating COVID-19 outbreak in the spring of 2020 have sued several members of the facility’s former leadership team, alleging they were forced to care for sick and dying veterans, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3k8d19R

Massachusetts Utilities Seek to Stretch Reimbursement for Storm Damage

Massachusetts’ two largest utilities have asked to defer reimbursement payments for weather damage after a record amount of storms exceeded the maximum number the companies can seek reimbursement for. Under state law, utilities may recover operations and maintenance costs from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z4SIAg

Biden Administration to Require Nursing Home Employees to Get COVID-19 Vaccine

President Joe Biden said on Wednesday his administration will require employees at nursing homes to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of the facilities participating in the Medicare and Medicaid government healthcare programs. Biden made the announcement hours after … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3k4ZcZT

Goldman Sachs to Buy Asset Management Arm of Insurer NN Group for Nearly $2B

AMSTERDAM – Goldman Sachs said on Thursday it will buy Dutch insurer NN Group’s asset management arm for around 1.7 billion euros ($1.98 billion) in the biggest acquisition by the U.S. company since David Solomon became chief executive in 2018. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3k9hNnC

California Wildfires Are Exhausting 10,000-Strong Army Fighting Them

There are over 10,000 firefighters battling unprecedented blazes in California, but that isn’t enough, and the state is having a hard time finding more as flames rage across the western U.S. and Canada. Twelve major wildfires now burn in the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W8t53p

Brokers and loss adjusters – can it be a winning partnership?

News analysis: Rachel Gordon investigates how broker-owned loss adjusters are changing the claims process and whether they could pile on the pressure for insurers. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3j0lyMQ

States Weighing $26 Billion Opioid Settlement Face Saturday Deadline

U.S. states are racing to meet a deadline to commit to a $26 billion opioid settlement with three drug distributors and the drugmaker Johnson & Johnson, as some grapple with local resistance and concerns the amount isn’t big enough to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z36F1F

Parametric Catastrophe Facility CCRIF to Pay Haiti $40M Following Deadly Quake

CCRIF SPC, the Cayman Islands-based parametric catastrophe facility, will pay approximately US$40 million to the government of Haiti, following the devastating magnitude 7.2 earthquake, which struck the Caribbean island on Aug. 14, significantly affecting the city of Les Cayes. This … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37Yba1y

Arch hires broker relationship development manager

Caroline Fisher joins the company with immediate effect and will focus on building relationships with brokers across the South West region. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3iXRxwR

Blog: Why customers are missing out on vital protection

Arc Legal's Tim Mullin discusses why the industry needs to reframe legal expenses insurance and explains what role brokers have to play to help customers. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3z43HtK

TechAssure Launches Cyber Threat Sharing Community to Fight Ransomware

TechAssure has announced a partnership with RiskAnalytics and ICE Cybersecurity to launch an exclusive cyber insurance option called The ShadowNet Program, a real-time, proactive cyber intelligence solution. Using RiskAnalytics’ proprietary cybersecurity solutions, and ICE Cybersecurity’s assessment and analytics platform, insureds … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gcOI9K

Why Haiti Is Prone to Deadly Earthquakes

Earthquakes have been wreaking havoc in Haiti since at least the 18th century, when the city of Port-au-Prince was destroyed twice in 19 years. Saturday’s powerful quake killed hundreds and injured thousands more. Eleven years earlier a temblor killed tens … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xZIIqI

South Carolina Supreme Court Allows University to Institute Mask Mandate

The South Carolina Supreme Court ruled that a mask mandate instituted by the University of South Carolina last month does not violate a state budget proviso banning discriminatory face covering requirements. University officials withdrew the mask rule earlier this month … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W9dJuZ

UK Court Approves $14 Billion-Plus Class Action Against Mastercard

A London court on Wednesday approved a 10 billion pound-plus ($14 billion-plus) class action against global payments processor Mastercard that claimants said could entitle 46 million British adults to roughly 300 pounds each if it is successful. The Competition Appeal … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iYSPrs

Tokio Marine Insurance Singapore Hit by Ransomware Attack

Tokio Marine Insurance Singapore Ltd. (TMiS), a subsidiary of Tokio Marine Group, announced it was hit by a ransomware cyber attack. Upon a detection of the attack, TMiS immediately took necessary measures including the isolation of the network to prevent … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3mjmmye

4 Texas School Districts Close Due to Virus Outbreaks

As the new school year begins for Texas students and mask mandates are debated in various state courts, at least four school districts have already closed campuses due to COVID-19 outbreaks. The shutdowns are taking place as more school districts … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3z0Zo2u

Family of Man Killed During Kenosha, Wisconsin, Protests Sues Police

The family of one of the two men fatally shot during a demonstration against police violence in Kenosha, Wisconsin, has filed a federal civil lawsuit against local law enforcement, accusing officers of facilitating Kyle Rittenhouse’s attacks. Anthony Huber was participating … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37XCTiU

Marsh and Citi Develop Risk Program With 6 Insurers to Deliver Vaccines Globally

Global insurance broker Marsh and global bank Citi said they have developed a risk mitigation structure to cover the risk associated with a number of governments that are self-funding their coronavirus vaccine procurement through the COVAX Facility. The innovative structure … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gfj0Zv

People Moves: Korte Named Sr. VP at CNA; Stephan Corporate Joins The Plexus Groupe; Ryan Specialty Group Adds Behren

CNA CNA appointed Dieter Korte senior vice president, Middle Market. In this role, Korte will be responsible for profitability, growth, and strategic direction of Chicago-based CNA’s middle market business unit. Korte joined CNA in 2016 after 25 years of commercial … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xU5P68

Insurers Await Judge’s Ruling as Boy Scouts Bankruptcy Hearings End

August 18, 2021

A year and a half after the Boy Scouts of America sought bankruptcy protection amid an onslaught of child sex abuse lawsuits, a Delaware judge is poised to issue a ruling that could determine whether the organization might emerge from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37VSXlo

Former Purdue President Sackler Says Family Did Not Contribute to Opioid Epidemic

August 18, 2021

Former Purdue Pharma President Richard Sackler said on Wednesday that his family’s reign over the OxyContin maker did not contribute to the national opioid epidemic and downplayed his role in a marketing strategy that prosecutors said led to some unsafe … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ghTK4D

Firefighters Struggle to Control Blazes Fueled by Heatwaves in France and Spain

Firefighters are struggling to control blazes in France’s Gulf of Saint Tropez and in the Spanish province of Avila, another manifestation of dangerous global warming that’s already caused a long list of extreme weather events this summer. A wildfire burned … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2VXLrEm

Louisiana to Insurance Producers: You Must Have a License to Do Business in State

Louisiana insurance regulators issued a new advisory reminding people who sell insurance in the state that they must have a licensed to do so. According to the Louisiana Department of Insurance Advisory Letter 2021-05, “only duly licensed insurance producers are … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W0eV4c

AM Best: Outlooks Negative for Wisconsin Reinsurance Group Members

AM Best revised the outlooks to negative from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of “bbb” (Good) of Madison-based Wisconsin Reinsurance Corp. (WRC) and 1st Auto & Casualty Insurance Co.(1st … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W3H3TW

People Moves: Keystone Names Pizzolato Texas State VP; USG Hires Strickland in Houston

Keystone Insurers Group Keystone Insurers Group appointed Meghan Pizzolato as its Texas state vice president. Pizzolato most recently served as a personal insurance sales executive with Kemper in the Dallas area. There, she managed relationships with nearly 300 agencies in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3AUdALj

Colorado Home Manufacturer Faces $222K in OSHA Penalties

Federal workplace safety officials cited a Colorado home manufacturing company for continuing to expose workers to falls at Pueblo facility. Key Structures LLC faces $222,055 in OSHA penalties and 13 willful, repeat and serious violations for exposing employees to defective … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yWG06O

Insured Losses from Haiti Earthquake Estimated at $250M: Karen Clark & Co.

The large 7.2 magnitude earthquake, which hit Haiti on Aug. 14, is likely to cost insurers around $250 million, according to catastrophe modeling firm Karen Clark & Co. (KCC). While the insured losses from this event are estimated at $250 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3m7C0Na

Crews Battle ‘Rapidly Growing’ Wildfire in Northern Minnesota

Fire crews in northeastern Minnesota battled a “rapidly growing” wildfire Sunday, adding to a list of wildfires in the region that has prompted Gov. Tim Walz to authorize the National Guard to assist in firefighting efforts. Superior National Forest officials … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3snzROk

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Settle Police Dog Attack Suit for $50K

The Cedar Rapids, Iowa, City Council approved a $50,000 payment to settle a lawsuit brought by a man who said he was unjustly attacked by a city police dog last year. The lawsuit was filed by Howard Cones, who said … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XBMkCT

AM Best Assigns B+ Rating to Texas’ National Unity Insurance

AM Best assigned a Financial Strength Rating of B+ and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb-” (Good) to National Unity Insurance Co. (National Unity) in San Antonio, Texas. The outlook assigned to the ratings is stable. The ratings reflect … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W3Ulzv

More Homes Threatened as Blazes Burn in California, Across West

Thousands of homes in Northern California remain threatened by the nation’s largest wildfire as unstable weather creates a high danger of new blazes erupting across the West. Weekend thunderstorms across the northern Sierra didn’t produce much rain, instead whipping up … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37QYEkI

Insurtech VOOM, Markel Offering Mileage-Based Motorcycle Insurance

Mobility insurtech VOOM and specialty insurer Markel have teamed up to launch a per-mile insurance offering for motorcycles in select states. VOOM will distribute the per-mile product both directly to riders and through select partners while Markel will provide underwriting … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3spA6IG

People Moves: Chubb’s Kocsondy Joins Beazley Cyber; Ames & Gough Adds Martin; WTW’s Kinzer Moves to Zurich Construction; AXA XL Adds 4 to Pollution Team

Beazley Appoints Chubb’s Kocsondy as U.S. Cyber & Tech Chief Specialist insurer Beazley has appointed Patricia Kocsondy as head of U.S. Cyber & Tech. Kocsondy, an experienced cyber underwriter and manager, comes from Chubb, where she served as senior vice … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iTEaxN

Massachusetts Woman Arrested for Workers’ Compensation Benefits Fraud

A Norwood, Massachusetts, woman was arrested in connection with fraudulently receiving federal workers’ compensation benefits and disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Karen Nolan was indicted on two counts of theft of public funds and two counts of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iW3seV

10th Tornado Confirmed in July Pennsylvania, New Jersey Storms

The National Weather Service has confirmed a 10th tornado that struck during storms last month in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Forecasters in Mount Holly, New Jersey, said Sunday that the EF-0 tornado struck July 29 in a remote area of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sqoaXt

People Moves: RT Specialty’s Burrows, API’s Gorman Promoted; New Hire at Concord Specialty

RT Specialty Promotes Burrows to Senior Account Manager RT Specialty has promoted Stacy Burrows to senior account manager within its environmental and construction professional (ECP) practice. She is based at RT ECP’s Hamilton, New Jersey, offices. Since joining the RT … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iQlHCq

Agencies Ride Commercial Prices, Reopened Economy to Record Organic Growth

Buoyed by the hard market and rebounding economy, Independent insurance agents and brokers grew overall by 7.1% in the second quarter, surpassing the 6.9% organic growth reported eight years ago in the second quarter of 2013. Commercial lines posted an … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iT5ZX1

Aston Lark Ireland Acquires Dublin-Based Broker A.R. Brassington & Co.

Continuing its rapid pace of expansion, Aston Lark Ireland announced the acquisition of A.R. Brassington & Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of the ARB Group. Established in 1929 and based in Dublin, Brassington Insurance is one of Ireland’s oldest insurance brokerages, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W6bmtg

Insurtech Quotall Announces Strategic Partnership with Broker/Fintech Provider Acrisure

Insurtech ecosystem specialist Quotall announced it has entered into a strategic partnership with global insurance broker and fintech services provider, Acrisure. Under the partnership, Acrisure will provide insurance product sourcing and insurer partnership services to meet the portfolio needs of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3k3FqxI

Nations Are Working Together to Deter Piracy in Waters Off West Africa

LAGOS – Helicopters hover above a patrol vessel in Nigeria’s frenetic Apapa port as attack boats zoom past. On the dock, drones emblazoned with the Nigerian flag sit ready to deploy – all part of a $195 million U.S.-backed “Deep … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37N87JC

NFL Owner Kraft Sued Over South Carolina Paper Mill’s Harmful Pollution

A South Carolina paper mill, whose foul smell has triggered more than 30,000 complaints, has become one of the dirtiest polluters in the United States since being acquired by an investment group led by Robert Kraft, the billionaire owner of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XpPcm8

Heavy Rains Lash Haiti, Complicating Rescue Efforts for Earthquake Survivors

LES CAYES, Haiti – Heavy rains lashed Haiti on Tuesday night, complicating rescue efforts and drenching thousands left homeless by a devastating earthquake that killed at least 1,419 people, as hopes dimmed for survivors. Tropical Depression Grace churned over the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ALjSN6

Shell to Pay $111 Million to Resolve Long-Running Oil-Spill Dispute in Nigeria

Royal Dutch Shell Plc’s Nigerian unit agreed to pay a local community $111 million to resolve a long-running dispute over an oil spill that occurred more than half a century ago. The Anglo-Dutch energy giant will pay the Ejama-Ebubu people … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W2CPMk

Hudson Structured Capital Management Buys Majority Stake in MGA Occam

Occam Underwriting, the London-based specialist lines managing general agency, announced that Hudson Structured Capital Management (HSCM) has recently acquired a majority stake in the company. HSCM, an asset manager specializing in the re/insurance and transportation sectors, has also made a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iZ36nT

One Dead in ‘Unprecedented’ El Paso Flooding

A storm system that stalled for days over West Texas led to what a National Weather Service meteorologist on Aug. 14 called an “unprecedented” amount of rain in the predominantly dry El Paso area, leaving a woman dead. “We’ve had … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3g8z0MK

Safety Regulations a Focus at Hearing into Deadly Louisiana Lift Boat Accident

A public hearing into the deadly capsizing of the Seacor Power lift boat off the coast of Louisiana has ended. The two-week U.S. Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation hearing concluded Aug. 13 with testimony from two survivors, family of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3CVdVyS

4 Hurt as Vegas Grocery Storefront Collapses at Opening Time

A storefront collapsed into rubble at a Las Vegas supermarket at opening time early Friday, injuring four people but none seriously, a fire official and witnesses said. Firefighters pulled one person from wood planking and roof debris about 6:20 a.m. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jWRzo5

Forecast: Smaller Corn Crop Expected in Kansas

Kansas farmers are expected to harvest a smaller corn crop this season, according to a forecast released Aug. 12. The National Agricultural Statistics Service said in its monthly production report that the state is projected to bring in 745 million … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3g7Dhjg

Insurance Fraud Referrals Up by 11% in Minnesota in 2020

The number of insurance fraud investigations in Minnesota in 2020 rose by 11% compared with 2019, according to the state’s primary law enforcement agency focused on white collar crime. The Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau, a division of the Minnesota Department … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3stJwmD

Hub International Acquires Assets of Kansas Agency, Dissinger Reed

Global insurance broker and financial services firm, Hub International Limited (Hub), acquired the assets of Dissinger Reed LLC (Dissinger Reed), located in Overland Park, Kansas. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Dissinger Reed is a special risk agency that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3AH5AwW

Safeway Faces $339.3K in Fines After Amputations at Denver Plant

Federal work safety officials imposed more than $339,000 in penalties against Safeway Inc. after a worker at a Denver milk packaging plant operated by the company lost four fingers while operating a molding machine that lacked required safeguards. Following an … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3sq8WBx

New York Insurance, Finance Regulator Lacewell to Resign

New York’s top financial regulator, Linda Lacewell, is planning to step down as the state grapples with fallout from Governor Andrew Cuomo’s resignation. Lacewell, the state’s superintendent of financial services, will resign effective Aug. 24, she said in a memo … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3so7eAU

Ryan Specialty Group Reports It Suffered Cyber Breach in April

Newly public brokerage firm Ryan Specialty Group reported today on a data security incident that happened in April. The firm said that on or about April 17, 2021, it became aware of “unusual activity” related to certain employee email accounts … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3g4Sp1a

People Moves: Carpenter Names Willis Re’s Harden President of APAC; HUB Appoints Stait to Lead Canada Cannabis Specialty; Riega Is Fidelis’ Head of Sustainability

This edition of International People Moves details appointments at Guy Carpenter, HUB International and Fidelis Insurance. A summary of these new hires follows here. Guy Carpenter Names Willis Re’s Harden as President of Asia Pacific Guy Carpenter & Co., the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2W3slMR

Russia TV Channel Abandons Talks with Google to Get YouTube Account Unblocked

MOSCOW – Tsargrad TV, a news channel owned by a sanctioned Russian businessman, said it had abandoned talks with Google to have its YouTube account unblocked and on Monday accused the U.S. group of dragging its feet in negotiations. Google … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jS0cjS

Oneglobal Launches Netherlands Office, Naming van der Wyck as CEO

London-based Oneglobal Broking announced the launch of a Netherlands office with Alex van der Wyck named CEO of Oneglobal Netherlands. Oneglobal’s start-up in the Netherlands, continues the strategic build-out of its international operations, having opened offices in Bermuda, Hong Kong … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3k4Sovo

Safety Agency Has Begun Probe Into Tesla Autopilot

U.S. auto safety regulators said Monday they had opened a formal safety probe into Tesla Inc.’s driver assistance system Autopilot after a series of crashes involving emergency vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said that since January 2018, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3snks0D

Willis Towers Watson Names Hess as President and Future CEO

Insurance broker Willis Towers Watson announced that its board of directors has unanimously selected Carl Hess as the company’s new president and next chief executive officer. Hess, who currently serves as Willis Towers Watson’s head of Investment, Risk and Reinsurance … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37MkS7h

Healthcare Costs, Premiums Likely to Rise for Years Due to COVID-19

Health implications related to COVID-19 will continue to drive elevated health system utilization long after the acute phase of the pandemic has concluded, likely leading to increasing costs and higher insurance premiums for decades, according to a report by Fitch … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37OMb0C

Seton Hall University Files to Dismiss Player’s Suit Over Knee Injury

Seton Hall University has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by former star basketball player Myles Powell over a knee injury Powell claims was misdiagnosed by team staff and led to his not being drafted by any NBA … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xPWvAi

OSHA Urges Employers to Require Vaccinated Workers to Wear Masks

The U.S. agency that regulates workplace safety issued guidance on Friday urging employers to require many fully vaccinated workers to wear masks to protect unvaccinated colleagues and customers, amid a surge in COVID-19 cases. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iRgvy2

Former Pennsylvania Bank Manager Accused of Setting Fire to Conceal Embezzlement

The former branch manager of a western Pennsylvania credit union stole $340,000 and then set the bank safe on fire to throw off investigators, federal prosecutors said. A federal grand jury indicted Patty Lynn Mavrakis of Belle Vernon on Wednesday … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jYtDAL

Apple Loses Patent Trial as Jury Awards Optis Wireless $300 Million

A U.S. jury on Friday awarded Optis Wireless Technology LLC and several related companies $300 million in damages after a second patent trial against iPhone maker Apple Inc. A jury had previously found that Apple had infringed five Optis wireless … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3m82j62

Report Finds Some Progress on Global Strategies to Reduce Cyber Risks

Despite the overall worsening cybersecurity climate, there’s been some global progress in developing strategies to reduce risk. “We are seeing a new level of collaboration between the public and private sectors,” Christian Hoffman, Aon’s Cyber Solutions chief executive officer of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iO4N7d

Illinois Court Rules Hobby Lobby Broke Law in Transgender Employee Bathroom Case

Hobby Lobby Stores Inc. violated Illinois anti-bias law by denying a transgender woman employee access to the women’s bathroom, a state appellate court ruled in a case of first impression. Meggan Sommerville’s sex is “unquestionably female” and Hobby Lobby unlawfully … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3m6hVXu

Death Toll Soars from Haiti Earthquake; U.S. Deploys Search and Rescue Teams

The U.S. deployed search and rescue teams to help find survivors among the debris of collapsed buildings in Haiti as the death toll soars from Saturday’s massive earthquake. At least 1,297 people were killed after the 7.2-magnitude quake struck off … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UrmLDq

HSBC Buys AXA Singapore for $575M in Push to Fuel Expansion Across Southeast Asia

HSBC Holdings Plc agreed to buy AXA Singapore for $575 million in a push to build a global wealth hub in Singapore and fuel its expansion across Southeast Asia amid increasing tension in China. The acquisition will give HSBC the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jX3QZQ

South Carolina Prepares for Open Carrying of Pistols

Anyone with a permit to carry a concealed weapon in South Carolina will no longer have to keep their weapon hidden under clothing starting Sunday. Gov. Henry McMaster held a ceremonial signing Friday for a new state law allowing people … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UqK9ks

Oscar Renda Files $79M Suit Against Biloxi, Mississippi, Alleges Flawed Engineering Plans

The evening before Hurricane Zeta made landfall, Vicki Dean and her husband, Kenny, were curious to see if the distant storm was already churning up Biloxi’s Back Bay. Like they did many evenings when Vicki wasn’t waitressing at a Gulfport … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2XkD1Hd

Takeaways from Our Conversation about Cannabis Product Liability Suits Worth Watching

August 15, 2021

If you ask just about any insurance pro or risk manager to list the top exposures for a company, being sued is likely to be right up there. And if you boiled that down into another list, among the greatest … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3CUoId0

How Extreme Weather Makes Everything Harder, Except Climate-Risk Analysis

August 15, 2021

It’s been a momentous week for our understanding of the effects of greenhouse gas emissions. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s sixth report on the physical science of global warming last Monday brought home the connection between burning fossil fuels … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3AHudtx

Fred Expected to Bring Tropical Storm Conditions to Florida

Fred is forecasted to bring tropical storm conditions in portions of Florida Saturday according to a National Hurricane Center Aug. 13 update. The Keys, southern and central Florida could see between three to six inches of rain as the storm … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jNUAHk

Wildfires Threaten Rural Towns in Montana, California

Wildfires in Montana threatened rural towns and ranchland while victims of a California blaze returned to their incinerated community, even as the U.S. West faced another round of dangerous weather and smoke pollution fouled the air. Firefighters and residents have … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3yOyRFm

People Moves: Texas Agent, Padron, Named Invest Chair

Invest Invest, the classroom-to-career education program backed by the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, appointed Juan Padron, partner at SafeGuard Insurance Agency in McAllen, Texas, as the new chair of the national Invest board. Padron has been part … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iHBqDv

6 Tornadoes Confirmed in North Dakota’s Red River Valley

The National Weather Service confirmed the severe thunderstorms that moved through northern parts of the Red River Valley earlier this week produced six tornadoes. The weather service’s damage assessment team said tornadoes were confirmed near Starkweather, east of Binford, north … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iGTKNh

Texas Sees Increasing Numbers of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Deaths

Texas transportation officials say in 2020 there was a dramatic rise in the number of people killed walking and biking on roadways. Despite a decrease in traffic crashes in 2020, 731 people died in pedestrian-related crashes, an increase of 9% … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xMCSJf

Alera Group Acquires Risk Consulting Partners

Deerfield, Illinois-based Alera Group acquired Risk Consulting Partners (RCP), a firm that specializes in working with private equity firms and assessing risk exposures across all companies in their portfolios. With core competencies in property/casualty insurance, employee benefits, life insurance, risk … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iPnach

Accenture: Systems Restored, ‘No Impact’ From Reported Ransomware Attack

Accenture said it has fully restored certain affected systems, after a CNBC reporter tweeted of a hacker group saying it attacked the IT consulting firm using LockBit ransomware and threatened to release the data in several hours. “Through our security … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3AA1CWS

California Justices Won’t Limit Governor’s Pandemic Powers

The California Supreme Court declined to consider reining in Gov. Gavin Newsom’s emergency powers during the coronavirus pandemic, leaving in place a lower court’s ruling that the governor acted within his authority. The justices unanimously denied the petition for review … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37CAmdW

Colorado Freeway Buried by Mudslides to Open Saturday

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis says the state should be able to reopen a vital interstate highway corridor that was blocked by massive mud and debris slides in a wildfire burn scar area to limited traffic on Saturday. Polis made the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iIHaNF

Drought Devastates Washington State’s Wheat Crop

The wheat harvest on Marci Green’s farm doesn’t usually begin until late August, but a severe drought stunted this year’s crop and her crews finished harvesting last week because she didn’t want what had grown so far to shrivel and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xKZABB

European Commission Clears Vienna Insurance Acquisition of Aegon’s Businesses

The European Commission has granted competition law clearance for Vienna Insurance Group’s proposed acquisition of Aegon’s businesses in Central and Eastern Europe, according to the insurer. The acquisition by Vienna Insurance Group AG Wiener Versicherung Gruppe (VIG) was first announced … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jR05VM

OneGroup Acquires Thomas Gregory Associates Insurance Brokers

Community Bank System Inc. acquired the assets of the New England-based Thomas Gregory Associates Insurance Brokers Inc. (TGA), a property/casualty broker specializing in the food and agribusiness industries. TGA’s assets were acquired by OneGroup, NY Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37BJYpo

N.H. Insurance Department Issues Bulletin on Appointment of Insurance Producers

The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) Commissioner Chris Nicolopoulos issued a bulletin reminding insurers that they must comply with the New Hampshire statutory requirement that all insurance producers acting as the agent of an insurer be appointed by the insurer. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3lZwSdT

The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers Partners with The Budde Agency

The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers entered into a new partnership with The Budde Agency of Amityville, New York. Founded in 1936, The Budde Agency is led by Richard Budde and Daniel Waldeck and provides personal and business insurance products and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3meRjDZ

Massachusetts Tree Service Company Allegedly Retaliated Against Employees