News

2004 hurricane losses continue to dampen fortunes

The rising loss total being attributed to the 2004 U.S. hurricane season is putting increasing pressure on the shareholders’ equity of many insurers and reinsurers, says a report by Standard & Poor’s.S&P notes that two issues are causing the loss estimates to rise even into 2005. “First, companies initially underestimated claims because of assumptions they […]

By Canadian Underwriter | February 21, 2005

1 min read

Increase in capacity not deterring European reinsurer discipline

Based on January 2005 reinsurance renewals, European carriers have not given in to competitive pressures despite rising capacity, notes a report by A.M. Best.While overall reinsurance rates declined moderately, with the exception of some U.S. hurricane-exposed risks, the pricing drop was a shallow one, the rating agency notes. However, much remains to be seen heading […]

By Canadian Underwriter | February 21, 2005

1 min read

Tobacco class action certified in Quebec

Two class actions against three tobacco manufacturers for “smoking addiction” have been certified in Quebec Superior Court.The suits involved tobacco companies Imperial Tobacco Canada, Rothmans Benson & Hedges, and JTI MacDonald, with plaintiffs alleging the companies did not disclose the risks involved in smoking. Montreal law firm Trudel & Johnston, which represents Rimouski resident Cecilia […]

By Canadian Underwriter | February 21, 2005

1 min read

What’s new: In brief (February 21, 2005)

A bill to extend the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA) two years past its December 31, 2005 sunset has been introduced in the U.S. Senate, crafted by Sens. Robert Bennett and Christopher Dodd. The same two men had introduced a similar bill during the last Congress which never made it to a vote. Also on […]

By Canadian Underwriter | February 21, 2005

2 min read