Rate reductions in U.S. commercial lines showing signs of moderating

Average rate decreases for the composite U.S. commercial property and casualty markets slowed to 4% in March 2010 from 5% in February 2010, reports MarketScout.Directors and officers’ liability and surety rates were flat.Rates moderated for energy, manufacturing and public entities, and all other industry classes (except for workers’ compensation) maintained the same rate position as February, MarketScout said in its March Barometer report. Jumbo and large accounts continue to enjoy the greatest rate reductions (-6% and -5%, respectively). Small to medium accounts are only receiving moderate reductions (-3% and -4%, respectively).