White House hopefuls in final Iowa plea

The men and women hoping to be US president are making a final pitch to people in Iowa, where the first votes will be cast on Monday.

New York Man Gets 15 Years for No-Fault Insurance, Stock Fraud Scheme

A Long Island, New York, man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for a $35 million fraud that a judge said wrecked investors’ lives. Mikhail Zemlyansky, 39, was led out of a Manhattan courtroom Thursday, Jan. 28, in shackles …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JTtASb
via IFTTT

Kentucky Stockyard, Other Businesses Destroyed by Massive Fire

A massive fire destroyed a 70-year-old beef cattle auction business in Lexington, Ky., on Saturday, churning up a plume of thick, black smoke that darkened the skies for miles as the wind-whipped flames consumed several nearby businesses. No one was …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nyyysX
via IFTTT

NOAA: Recent Northeast Winter Storm 4th Most Powerful Since 1950

The Jan. 22-24 blizzard was the fourth most powerful snowstorm to hit the Northeast in at least 66 years, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced. The agency gave the storm a rating of 7.66 on the Northeast Snowfall Impact …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VAKzco
via IFTTT

Alabama Family to Sue Disney Park Over Death Related to Snake Bite

An Alabama family says an escaped snake at Disney’s Animal Kingdom dropped from a tree and bit a boy, which led to the death of the boy’s grandmother. The family’s attorney, Matt Morgan, said Jan. 28 that the family plans …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KQQswC
via IFTTT

Tennessee County Granted $60M to Improve Flood Protection

Officials say Shelby County, Tennessee, has received a $60 million grant from the federal government for flood protection projects. County officials announced the disaster resilience grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on Jan. 21. Shelby County …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/201Uedi
via IFTTT

UCPM Launches Online Environmental Consultants Program

UCPM, Inc., an environmental insurance provider, has entered into an agreement with Rockhill Insurance Co. to offer a comprehensive insurance package for environmental consultants that includes commercial general liability, contractor’s pollution liability, and professional liability coverages. Some highlights include non-owned …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nypQLb
via IFTTT

VIDEO: The man creating castles out of ice

One ice sculptor in the United States has turned his hobby in to a business.

South Carolina Set Record in December for Gun Purchases, Permits

A record 50,000 South Carolinians sought to either buy guns or carry concealed weapons during December. The statistics came from the FBI criminal background check system, The Post and Courier of Charleston reported. The spike came when President Barack Obama …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20AZjvr
via IFTTT

Florida High Court Set to Hear Constitutional Challenge to Workers’ Comp System

The Florida Supreme Court will hear yet another case challenging the constitutionality of the state’s workers’ comp system on April 16, 2016. The case, Daniel Stahl v. Hialeah Hospital, et al., has been making its way through the state courts …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1P7ixkX
via IFTTT

Texas Company Fined $86K for Trenching Hazards

Federal safety officials have cited a Texas construction company for exposing workers to trenching hazards at a site in Katy. Proposed penalties total $86,240. Five citations were issued by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration on Jan. 22 to …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PrRSD1
via IFTTT

Barclays facing $70m US trading fine

US regulators are set to fine UK-based Barclays Bank $70m (£49m) for misleading investors about its US "dark pool" trading operations.

Kansas City Woman Pleads Guilty to Arson-for-Insurance Charges

A Kansas City woman has admitted to helping to burn down one home and plotting to burn another for insurance money. The U.S. attorney’s office says 35-year-old Tina Shonk pleaded guilty to two federal counts. Through her plea, she admitted …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SlvRsb
via IFTTT

Oklahoma Seeking Federal Disaster Declaration for December Storm

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin is asking the federal government to declare parts of the state as a disaster area following a winter storm that caused flooding and dropped ice and sleet. Fallin sought a major disaster declaration on Jan. 29 …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Kkmu9k
via IFTTT

3 Female Chauffeurs Awarded $130K Each in Minnesota Discrimination Case

A federal judge has awarded damages to three Minnesota women who sued after they were dismissed from their chauffeur jobs because a Saudi prince wanted only male drivers. U.S. District Judge Joan Ericksen awarded $130,000 each to Gretchen Cooper, Barbara …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Kkmu9i
via IFTTT

Oklahoma Governor OKs $1.4M in State Funds for Earthquake Research

Gov. Mary Fallin approved the use of nearly $1.4 million in state emergency funds for state agencies working to reduce the increasing number of earthquakes that have been linked to the disposal of oil and gas wastewater in Oklahoma. Speaking …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SSnwMe
via IFTTT

The tragic story of journalist who shot herself on live TV

Rebecca Hall plays journalist who shot herself on live TV

Confessions of a four-time caucus correspondent

The race that keeps me coming back for more

VIDEO: Find Bernie! On a candidate crawl in Iowa

The BBC's Rajini Vaidyanathan hits the campaign trail in Iowa to see how many candidates she could see in a day.

Canada ex-mafia boss shot dead

A former Mafia boss has been shot dead at his home in the Canadian city of Toronto and his son-in-law is charged with murder.

'Diversity reigns' in acting awards

The journalism drama Spotlight wins the main prize at the Screen Actors Guild awards in Los Angeles, but the success of minority actors draws most attention.

VIDEO: The Sikh man who stood up to Trump

The Sikh man who was kicked out of a Trump rally

Hillary's fight to the finish

Hillary Clinton fights to the finish in Iowa

Two escaped inmates held in California

Police in San Francisco catch two inmates who had been on the run from jail for more than a week, after a third surrendered on Friday.

NYT endorses Clinton and Kasich

Liberal-leaning New York Times backs Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican John Kasich as they bid to become their parties' candidates in US presidential elections.

One dead and many hurt in US bike show

At least one person has died and several injured after a shooting and stabbing at a motorcycle show in the US state of Colorado.

VIDEO: New York from the very top

Known for enormous images of deserts, geographic features and mass animal migrations, aerial photographer George Steinmetz has turned his lens on New York.

VIDEO: Sinkhole opens up near US highway

A giant sinkhole opens up near a highway in the US state of Oregon.

Kerber stuns Williams to win title

Germany's Angelique Kerber beats world number one Serena Williams to win her first Grand Slam at the Australian Open.

Bowie leaves $100m fortune in will

David Bowie left an estate valued at about $100m, according to his will, and also requested that his ashes be scattered in Bali.

Five snowmobilers die in avalanche

A "very large" avalanche in western Canada leaves at least five people on snowmobiles dead, authorities say.

Facebook bans private gun adverts

Private individuals will no longer be allowed to advertise guns on Facebook and Instagram after the sites announced rule changes.

VIDEO: 'Top secret' emails won't be released

The US State Department says it will not allow some of Hillary Clinton's private emails to be released because they contain information it considers "top secret".

Why is Iowa like Leicester City FC?

Why the state of Iowa is like the luge

VIDEO: Iowa voters talk politics over pie

As the 2016 presidential hopefuls make their final pitch to candidates in Iowa, what are the issues which matter most to voters? Iowa voters talk about their differences over pie.

One of escaped trio held in California

Police in California have arrested one of three escaped inmates after the fugitive told a friend he wanted to turn himself.

Clinton emails declared 'top secret'

Seven email chains from Hillary Clinton's private account withheld from publication as "top secret" - US officials

Tompkins Insurance Acquires Shepard, Maxwell & Hale in New York

Tompkins Financial Corporation, a financial services company headquartered in Ithaca, New York, announced that its insurance agency subsidiary, Tompkins Insurance Agencies Inc., has acquired Shepard, Maxwell & Hale Insurance in upstate New York. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1UvJlPD
via IFTTT

Maryland Officials Confident of Snowstorm Disaster Aid

Last weekend’s brutal snowstorm pummeled Maryland from the Atlantic coast to the West Virginia border, costing government agencies much more than the minimum requirement for a federal disaster declaration, the state’s emergency management chief said. The state aims to submit …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OUMp6a
via IFTTT

Wal-Mart Ordered to Pay New Hampshire Pharmacist $31M in Bias Case

Wal-Mart Stores Inc was ordered by a federal jury in New Hampshire to pay $31.22 million to a pharmacist who claimed she was fired because of her gender and in retaliation for complaining about safety conditions. The Concord, New Hampshire, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VvCS7p
via IFTTT

US and UK 'hacked into Israeli aircraft'

US and UK spy agencies have hacked into Israeli air force communications since the 1990s, documents linked to US whistleblower Edward Snowden say.

Four militants remain in US stand-off

The FBI is attempting to negotiate the surrender of the final four anti-government militants holed up at a federal wildlife refuge in Oregon.

Connecticut Insurance Department Names Grace to Lead Captive Unit

Connecticut Insurance Commissioner Katharine L. Wade has announced that Janet Grace, a veteran risk specialist with more than 20 years of experience, is overseeing the Connecticut Insurance Department’s Captive Insurance Unit. A former consultant for Towers Watson, Grace has done …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nt73RG
via IFTTT

Patriot National Acquires Mid Atlantic Insurance Services in Virginia

Patriot National Inc., a workers’ compensation outsourcing services firm based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, announced that it has acquired Mid Atlantic Insurance Services, a wholesale commercial insurance broker and program administrator in Richmond, Virginia. Terms of the transaction were not …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PnlMZ5
via IFTTT

Iowa Appeals Court: Farmer May Sue Pipeline Company for Crop Damage

An appeals court said that a northeastern Iowa farmer may pursue a breach of contract lawsuit against a natural gas pipeline company and seek damages for decreased crop productivity on the ground above the pipeline. Roger Tiemessen rents land from …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Pnh3Xt
via IFTTT

Florida State University to Use Boosters to Settle Player’s Rape Case

Florida State University has agreed to pay $950,000 to settle a federal Title IX lawsuit brought by a former student who accused quarterback Jameis Winston of sexually assaulting her in 2012. The school is on the hook for around another …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nsVxpt
via IFTTT

Arizona House Leader Wants Another Cut on Insurance Company Taxes

An Arizona House panel has voted to advance a bill accelerating phased-in insurance company tax cuts included in a law passed last year. House Bill 2002 is sponsored by House Republican Majority Whip David Livingston. He also sponsored the bill …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Pndnox
via IFTTT

Louisiana Sees Big Growth in Health Care, Education Employment

Employment in education and health services grew by 2,400 jobs in December 2015 to the highest level since the current employment tracking system began in 1990, while Louisiana’s unemployment rate fell to 6.1 percent, according to seasonally-adjusted data released by …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PJQHRj
via IFTTT

Uber’s Bid to Pause Suit by California Drivers Group Rejected

Uber Technologies Inc. lost its bid to pause a lawsuit by California drivers demanding to be treated as employees that has grown dramatically in both size and potential liability. The U.S. Court of Appeals in San Francisco this week rejected …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PJQJIY
via IFTTT

JLT Specialty USA Names Taliaferro Senior Vice President in California

JLT Specialty USA has named Brian Taliaferro senior vice president of the entertainment and hospitality practice. Taliaferro, who will be based in JLT’s Los Angeles, Calif., office, will lead the company’s gaming and hospitality practice, in addition to developing and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JM1KY4
via IFTTT

Oklahoma Bill Would Require Use of Hazard Lights in School Zones

Legislation filed by a lawmaker in Oklahoma would increase school safety by requiring the use of hazard lights in school zones. According to the Transportation Research Board, more than 100 children are killed and nearly 25,000 injured every year while …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/23xUu8B
via IFTTT

Dozens of Dangerous Texas Chemical Plants Operate near Public Centers: Report

Dozens of Texas plants similar to a fertilizer facility that exploded in the town of West in 2013, one of Texas’ worst industrial accidents, are still operating near schools, hospitals and residential neighborhoods, federal regulators say. A report released by …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PYn6Oi
via IFTTT

EEOC Wants to Collect Worker Pay Data to Battle Wage Bias

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)is proposing it collect pay data from employers, including federal contractors, with more than 100 employees. The agency says this new data will assist the government in identifying possible pay discrimination and assist employers …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nsFUy5
via IFTTT

Confusion over Insuring Crop that Produces Jet Fuel Cleared Up

The federal government has finalized procedures to insure a new crop that’s being grown to produce jet fuel. Farmers in North Dakota last year planted 6,000 acres of the mustard seed variety known as carinata, but insurance agents were unclear …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JLNBtO
via IFTTT

US economic growth slows sharply

The US economy grew at an annualised rate of 0.7% in the fourth quarter of last year, official figures show.

A Drunk Driving Case Made for TV’s ‘Law & Order’

I can’t be the only one who thinks they should bring back the original “Law & Order.” If NBC did, the show’s first case should be one that went on trial this week in a local court in Mineola, New …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Uv3Go8
via IFTTT

Officials, Poultry Producers Hope Nationwide Testing Contains Indiana Bird Flu

In the two weeks since bird flu reappeared in Indiana, U.S. veterinarians have swabbed the mouths of chickens and turkeys across the country, racing to uncover any more infections and contain the virus before it causes mass death and damage …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/23xFJ5L
via IFTTT

So, If the Future Arrived in 2015, What About 2016?

Repeatedly, we have described 2015 as the “year the future arrived for insurance.” Across the board, we saw significant changes in how carriers thought about the impact of new technology and innovation. It was the year in which the Millennial …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1P1wmRY
via IFTTT

Bermuda’s Validus Reports 2015 Net Income of $374.9M, vs. $480M in 2014

Bermuda-based Validus Holdings Ltd. reported net income available to Validus of $69.0 million, or $0.81 per diluted common share, for the three months ended Dec. 31, 2015, compared to $125.9 million, or $1.38 per diluted common share, for the same …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20x0TOI
via IFTTT

Man jailed for Seoul Burger King murder

An American man is jailed in South Korea for murdering a man nearly two decades ago in the toilet of a Burger King restaurant in Seoul.

Talanx Group’s Industrial Insurer Operating with New Name: HDI Global SE

Talanx Group’s industrial lines insurer, formerly called HDI-Gerling Industrie Versicherung AG, is now operating under the name HDI Global SE. On Jan. 8, the renaming of HDI-Gerling Industrie Versicherung AG became official, as did the company’s conversion to an SE …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20wYXpA
via IFTTT

Willis Towers Watson Appoints New Senior Leadership Team for Great Britain

Willis Towers Watson, the global advisory, broking and solutions company, announced a group of senior leadership appointments within its Great Britain business. Ailsa King will lead the Client Organisation in Great Britain, which will embrace sales, account management, regional development, industry focus and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WRbmm2
via IFTTT

Lloyd’s Underwriter Marketform Appoints Murru as Financial Lines Underwriter

Specialist Lloyd’s underwriter Marketform, which operates Syndicate 2468 at Lloyd’s, announced that Roberto Murru joined the company as an underwriter in its growing financial lines team led by Ian West. Fluent in Italian, Murru began his insurance career in 1985 …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JKMKtl
via IFTTT

U.S. Utilities Examine Their Insurance Protection After Ukraine Grid Cyber Attack

U.S. utilities are looking hard at their cyber vulnerabilities and whether they can get insurance to cover what could be a multi-billion dollar loss after hackers cut electric power to more than 80,000 Ukrainians last month. The Dec. 23 incident …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nrMKE7
via IFTTT

‘Smart’ Appliances, Ventilation Systems Are New Hacker Targets: Cyber Experts

Hijacking “smart” toasters and refrigerators and hacking corporate ventilation systems are among the new threats envisioned by cyber security experts as an increasing array of items are connected to the internet. The Internet of Things, a movement that seeks to …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Snptit
via IFTTT

Deadline Announced for Missouri Insurance Education Foundation Scholarships

Missouri insurance regulators say the application deadline for Missouri Insurance Education Foundation (MIEF) scholarships is March 31. High school seniors and college students, who are Missouri residents may apply for the scholarships, according to the Missouri Department of Insurance. Four $1,500 scholarships …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QJzjeo
via IFTTT

Tennessee Captive Industry Grew by 37% in 2015

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) announced that 57 new captive insurance companies domiciled in the state 2015, which represents a 37 percent increase over 2014. The new captives are comprised of 47 pure captives, four Risk Retention …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WQXJ6s
via IFTTT

Carpenter Named VP at Hylant Select – Indiana

Insurance broker Hylant has appointed Kim Carpenter vice president of Hylant Select – Indiana. In her new role, she will manage and lead Hylant’s Select business within Indiana and she will be responsible for client service, growth and retention. Carpenter …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nSBQI0
via IFTTT

Florida Tornado Tosses Vehicle Driving on Turnpike

A tornado picked up a southbound vehicle on Florida’s Turnpike near Fort Lauderdale Wednesday morning and dropped it in the northbound lane as a line of severe storms hit the area, officials said. They said the storms tossed cars and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1NEO5N1
via IFTTT

State of Emergency Lifted for Most Parts of West Virginia

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has lifted a state of emergency in 51 of West Virginia’s 55 counties following cleanup of the recent winter storm. Tomblin says the declaration issued last week will continue until Friday evening in Berkeley, Jefferson, Morgan …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1NEO37V
via IFTTT

SIAA Partners with LifeLock to Offer Identity Protection Services

SIAA (Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance), a nationwide insurance agency alliance, has formed a national partnership with identity protection provider LifeLock. Under the partnership, SIAA member agencies can refer their personal lines clients to LifeLock at a discounted rate, and offer …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RQjhRg
via IFTTT

VIDEO: Trump: 'Stick up for your rights'

Donald Trump has explained why he chose not to participate in a televised debate in Iowa, following a row with Fox News.

FBI releases footage of Oregon shooting

Robert "LaVoy" Finicum, the Oregon militiaman killed by police on Tuesday, reached for a handgun before he was shot, the FBI says.

Canadian charged over secrets in China

Canadian Kevin Garratt, detained in China since 2014, has been charged with stealing state secrets, official media says.

VIDEO: Barbie becomes curvy and changes race

Barbie has finally had a makeover and will be sold in three new body shapes in response to falling sales and longstanding criticism.

A day using Chinese goods in the US

From bacon to Grindr - taking over the US market

Sanders fans go on online attack

Sanders supporters turn aggressive online

Oscars presenters unveiled amid row

The Academy Awards unveils a diverse group of presenters and performers for this year's Oscars, amid an ongoing row about the lack of diversity.

13 Indictments Handed Down in Massive Workers’ Comp Fraud Scam

An investigation into what’s being called one of the largest cases of workers’ compensation health care insurance fraud in California Department of Insurance history led to 13 indictments announced today against seven Southern California-based medical professionals. This is the second …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RPG67u
via IFTTT

Republicans to debate as Trump boycotts

Republican 2016 presidential candidates are due to take to the debate stage with Donald Trump notably absent, days before their first electoral test in Iowa.

Post-Blizzard, N.J. Gov. Apologizes to Official for ‘Crazy’ Comment

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said Tuesday that he personally apologized after calling a New Jersey shore official a “crazy mayor” and forcefully rebutted critics who suggested the state hasn’t done enough to help residents dealing with the aftermath of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KdiE1H
via IFTTT

NYC Flood Defense Barrier Remains Years Away

After ocean waters poured into lower Manhattan during Superstorm Sandy, experts began dreaming up a solution: a U-shaped barrier of earthen berms, walls and gates that would keep floods out and the nation’s financial capital dry. Now, more than three …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SdZYBY
via IFTTT

Most Dangerous Cities in U.S. Ranked by Crime Data

East St. Louis, Illinois and Camden, New Jersey rank first and second in an annual ranking of the country’s most dangerous cities. New Orleans ((70), Philadelphia (65), Miami (63), Washington, D.C. (35) and Baltimore (19) are on the list but …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RPjWCv
via IFTTT

Hot, Wet Air May Cause Southwestern Oregon Flooding

The National Weather Service says warm, moist air from the jet stream could cause flooding in southwestern Oregon. The Mail Tribune reported that meteorologist Charles Smith of the NWS Medford office says the weather system will cause about 1.3 inches …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PDf4tT
via IFTTT

Colorado DOT to Post Traffic Death Tally Signs to Boost Safety

The Colorado Department of Transportation will begin using electronic signs along highways across the state to post a weekly tally of year-to-date traffic fatalities. The Denver Post reported the tally, which will be posted each Wednesday, will be paired with …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RPck2X
via IFTTT

Oregon Resident Files Class Action Against DraftKings, FanDuel

An Oregon resident has filed a class-action lawsuit against two daily fantasy sports sites, claiming the businesses are operating illegal online sports betting. The Oregonian reported that Polk County resident Brandon Peck filed the suit in federal court in Portland …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PVtcz9
via IFTTT

EPIC Makes Crow Vice President, Hospitality Practice Leader in West

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants has named Renee Crow vice president and West region hospitality practice leader. Crow will be responsible for further developing a unified approach to serving hospitality clients across the West region and nationally. Crow will be …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nAPgZj
via IFTTT

Moody’s, S&P Release Ratings for AIG After Strategic Plan Outlined

American International Group Inc., which activist investor Carl Icahn is pressuring to divest assets, had the outlook on its credit rating changed to negative from stable by Standard & Poor’s after the insurer announced plans to sell a stake in …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1lX7CC7
via IFTTT

Kellar Named Workers’ Comp Director at Louisiana Workforce Commission

Sheral Kellar has been appointed director of the Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration at the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Kellar, a licensed attorney with more than 25 years of experience in labor, employment and workers’ compensation law and most recently the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/2087T89
via IFTTT

'Affluenza' teen deported from Mexico

Ethan Couch, who made headlines for using "affluenza" as a defence after a fatal drink-driving crash, is being deported from Mexico back to the US.

Barbie now in 'curvy, tall and petite'

Barbie, the iconic plastic toy doll model, is getting three new body types including "tall, curvy and petite", US company Mattel reveals.

Ford reports record annual profit

US car giant Ford reports record profits for 2015 and a return to profits in Europe for the first time in four years.

California State Fund to Roll out New Medical Provider Network

State Compensation Insurance Fund will soon transition to a new outcomes-based medical provider network following a California Division of Workers’ Compensation approval of the new MPN called the State Fund MPN by Harbor Health. State Fund said it is transitioning …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1NDcLWd
via IFTTT

Ace Westchester’s Rubel: Future Trends and the Insurance Industry

What will the insurance industry be like in 15 years? The future will arrive whether the industry is ready or not. And while even so-called experts are no better than the average person in predicting it, what’s most important about …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1NDaURo
via IFTTT

Virtual Insurance Agent Insurify with License Plate Quote Feature Raises $2 Million

Consumers will soon be able to simplify the buying of auto insurance by snapping a photo of their license plate and texting it to the new site, Insurify.com, which will then generate price quotes. The license plate photo triggers the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PD99EX
via IFTTT

Bed bugs resist widely used chemicals

A study shows for the first time that bed bugs in the US have developed resistance to neonicotinoids, the world's most widely used insecticides.

Record Western U.S. Wildfires Contrasts Quiet Year for Disasters

It was a relatively quiet year for natural disasters – unless you live in the Western U.S. Property data provider CoreLogic today released its annual Natural Hazard Risk Summary and Analysis. The report shows “a continued trend of fewer U.S. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JIibVi
via IFTTT

Frozen Seafood Distributor Faces $115K for Safety Violations in Texas

Named a “severe violator” by federal safety officials, a frozen seafood distributor operating a plant in Brownsville, Texas, has been hit with $155,000 in fines over workplace safety hazards. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued citations for 11 …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1lWOJPz
via IFTTT

Lawsuit Seeks Replacement of Lead Pipes in Flint, Michigan

Environmental and civil rights groups are asking a federal judge to order the prompt replacement of all lead pipes in Flint’s water system to ensure residents of the Michigan city have a safe drinking supply. A lawsuit seeks an order …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/207RIaK
via IFTTT

Texas Governor Seeks Federal Disaster Help after Tornadoes

Gov. Greg Abbott has requested a federal disaster declaration for some Texas counties after deadly late-December blizzards and tornadoes. Abbott on Jan. 26 announced the request for individual assistance for people in Collin, Dallas, Ellis, Franklin, Rockwall and Van Zandt …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ND1lSs
via IFTTT

Bill Would Clarify South Dakota’s Workers’ Comp Law

A bill introduced in the South Dakota House would clarify state law on when part-time employees injured on the job should also receive workers’ compensation benefits for their other part-time positions. The proposed legislation stems from a 2015 state Supreme …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1lWIETj
via IFTTT

New Travelers CEO Schnitzer Stresses Continuity, Innovation in Earnings Call Debut

The Travelers Companies held its first earnings call under new CEO Alan Schnitzer on Jan. 21 with the property/casualty carrier’s executives putting forth a message of continuity and normalcy, even in the face of a fast-evolving market. Schnitzer, formerly head …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KcObk4
via IFTTT

Emergency team for 'explosive' Zika

The World Health Organization has set up a Zika "emergency team" after the "explosive" spread of the virus.

Dutch Finance Minister Rules Out Sale of ASR Nederland as Parliament Backs IPO

Dutch Finance Minister Jeroen Dijsselbloem ruled out a private sale of ASR Nederland NV, the insurer nationalized during the financial crisis, as parliament signaled its support for an initial public offering of the asset. Dijsselbloem reiterated his plan to hold the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/207Bxuc
via IFTTT

MetLife CEO Raised Possibility of Breakup in 2014

MetLife Inc., looking to avoid tougher oversight, was examining options for a breakup or restructuring of the firm 14 months before announcing this year that it’s considering a sale, spinoff or public offering for part of the domestic retail business. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SLUpKC
via IFTTT

Fiennes 'shocked' to play Jackson

Joseph Fiennes admits he was "shocked" to be cast as Michael Jackson in a TV comedy about the singer allegedly taking a road trip with Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando.

Liberty Specialty Markets Enters Chinese Market via Lloyd’s China Platform

London-based Liberty Specialty Markets (LSM), which is part of Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, has joined the Lloyd’s China platform. LSM’s Underwriting Division of Lloyd’s Insurance Company (China) Ltd. (LICCL) has appointed Eve Li as its first representative in Beijing, China. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20uCgSW
via IFTTT

Allied World Appoints Herron as VP in Australia Professional Liability Team

Allied World Assurance Co. Holdings announced that Michael Herron was appointed vice president, Professional Liability – Allied World Global Markets. Based in Sydney, Australia, Herron will be responsible for the growth and development of the company’s Australian professional liability business. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WPfOBK
via IFTTT

M&A to Intensify as Insurers Hunt for Top-Line Growth: Willis Towers Watson

The competition for attractive assets will intensify in the next three years as the majority of insurers (82 percent) plan to acquire, while only one-third intend to divest, according to a survey of senior insurance executives conducted by Willis Towers …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20uvA7g
via IFTTT

Gasoline Imports Easier to Insure than Crude Exports in Post-Sanctions Iran

Major oil firms and trade houses are gradually resuming energy trading with Iran but efforts remain very cautious and often face huge legal obstacles, meaning a post-sanctions return to full-scale activity will take weeks if not months. Trading sources told …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SdcGke
via IFTTT

Chubb CEO Greenberg Blames Brazil’s Leaders for Exacerbating Economic Woes

Evan Greenberg, the chief executive officer of Chubb Ltd., said Brazilians can blame their country’s leaders, and not just a commodities slump, for the nation’s woes. “The economic environment, the political environment, is very tough,” Greenberg said Wednesday in a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ORd6sk
via IFTTT

Norman-Spencer Agency Adds Workers’ Comp Coverage to Ready Mix Program

The Norman-Spencer Agency, Inc., a national insurance provider and program administrator, has added workers’ compensation coverage in selected states to its Ready Mix Program designed for companies that manufacture and transport ready mix concrete to construction job sites. The new …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OR84fJ
via IFTTT

Robert 'LaVoy' Finicum, a militiaman apart

Oregon militiaman was a polite and resolute fighter

Puno Joins Safety National Re Professional Liability Treaty Team

Safety National Re announced it has added Charles Puno as vice president with a specialty in professional liability treaty reinsurance. He is based in Indianapolis, Ind. With over 25 years of industry-related insurance and reinsurance experience, Puno brings an extensive …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nQAMV6
via IFTTT

Lockton Adds Canale as Producer in Kansas City

Insurance broker Lockton has hired Rich Canale as a producer in its Kansas City, Mo., office. Canale specializes in employee benefits, bringing a holistic, consultative approach to clients’ programs. He comes to Lockton from Unum, where he spent more than …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Pkuuaw
via IFTTT

Zika 'could become explosive pandemic'

Researchers in the US urge the World Health Organisation to take urgent action over the zika virus, linked to shrunken brains in unborn children

BHSI Launches Life Agent & Broker Dealer Professional Liability Coverage

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has launched life agent & broker dealer professional liability insurance and named Atea Martin as head of claims. Underwriting of the new line is overseen by Paul Humel, AVP, Financial Institutions, Executive & Professional Lines. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1UsntEy
via IFTTT

Alteris to Offerage Cover for Mutual Water Companies in California

Alteris Insurance Services Inc. announced it will serve as insurance administrator for the newly formed CalMutuals Joint Powers Insurance Authority (JPIA) working with nonprofit water systems in California. The new program will work in partnership with the California Association of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SLo9XS
via IFTTT

Survey: Natural Gas Production in West Virginia Surpassing Expectations

A single Ohio County, West Virginia Marcellus Shale well yielded enough natural gas in 2014 to provide electricity for 24,315 homes, according to new numbers released by the West Virginia Geological & Economic Survey. There’s also plenty of what industry …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ZUlDhf
via IFTTT

FEMA to Provide Additional $10M in Aid to South Carolina Flood Victims

South Carolinians who were originally refused help following last October’s historic floods will be getting about $10 million in aid. The State of Columbia reports that the money became available through a program in which Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/23v66t4
via IFTTT

Florida Officer Convicted of Taking Bribes in Illegal Towing Scheme

A former Miami-Dade County police officer has pleaded guilty to accepting bribes in an illegal towing scheme. News outlets report Yuri Millan admitted he took kickbacks from tow-truck operators Oriel Ugardes and Jose Guim in exchange for information on stranded …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Kc22al
via IFTTT

A.M. Best Revises Outlook for South Carolina’s Greenville Casualty

A.M. Best has revised the outlook to stable from negative and affirmed the financial strength rating of B- (Fair) and the issuer credit rating of “bb-” of Greenville Casualty Insurance Company (Greenville) (Greer, SC). A.M. Best said the revised outlook …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20u4HAx
via IFTTT

Sanders, Trump play for angry Americans

Trump and Sanders play to the disaffected masses

Go home, Bundy tells Oregon protesters

Ammon Bundy, the leader of an armed siege at a wildlife refuge in Oregon who was arrested on Tuesday, urges the remaining occupiers to go home.

VIDEO: Syria: 'A wall of humanitarian demand'

The United Nations has spoken out about the world facing a 'mega crisis' and the difficulty of getting aid into Syria.

Keeping football tough but safe

The rush to stop American Football taking lives

VIDEO: Trump v the US TV networks

As Fox News fires back at Donald Trump for his refusal to participate in their debate on Thursday night, BBC News looks at his run-ins with US TV networks.

Oregon protesters blamed for violence

The armed occupiers of a wildlife reserve in Oregon were given the chance to avoid the violence that left one of them dead, say police.

Landy Agency Hires DiPentino as Director of Sales in Massachusetts

Herbert H. Landy Insurance Agency Inc., a national program administrator based in Needham, Massachusetts, has hired Mark DiPentino as director of Sales. DiPentino brings over 13 years of experience providing errors and omissions (E&O) insurance to real estate brokers. He …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nPOA2e
via IFTTT

Massachusetts Smokers Sue Philip Morris to Pay for Cancer Screenings

A decade after a group of smokers from Massachusetts sued Philip Morris USA to try to force the cigarette maker to pay for lung cancer screenings, the case will finally be heard by a jury. Smokers in the class-action lawsuit …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1noMUMu
via IFTTT

Connecticut Recovered $6M for Policyholders, Taxpayers in 2015

Connecticut Insurance Commissioner Katharine L. Wade announced that the Connecticut Insurance Department recovered approximately $6 million for policyholders and taxpayers in 2015, helping individuals and families with their claims and complaints. The Department’s Consumer Affairs Unit (CAU) fielded more than …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nPNIdL
via IFTTT

Maryland Urges Insurers to Accommodate Consumers Impacted by Blizzard

The Maryland Insurance Administration issued a bulletin encouraging insurance companies and premium finance companies to accommodate consumers who were impacted by last weekend’s blizzard. Bulletin 16-05 (Re: Cancellations of Insurance Policies) was issued Tuesday to all property and casualty insurers, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1noMPIJ
via IFTTT

VIDEO: Skier survives 1,000 ft fall down mountain

Video showing the moment an American professional skier tumbled about 1,000 ft (305 metres) down an Alaskan mountain, has clocked up 350,000 hits on YouTube.

Takata Discloses 11th Death Linked to Air Bag; Announces New 5 Million Vehicle Recall

U.S. auto safety regulators said Tuesday that air bag maker Takata Corp. declared 5.1 million U.S. vehicles defective, as the company disclosed an 11th death could be linked to a faulty airbag. Most of the vehicles mentioned in numerous previous …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SjManq
via IFTTT

Clinton: I'd make Obama a top judge

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton says appointing President Barack Obama as a Supreme Court justice is a "great idea".

‘Old’ ACE, Chubb Report Q4, Full Year 2015 Results

Just shy of two weeks after closing on their merger, ACE Ltd. and Chubb Corp. released financial results for their last quarter and year as separate entities. On January 14, 2016, ACE closed on its acquisition of Chubb Corp. creating …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RNXIRo
via IFTTT

Zika vaccine 'could be 10 years away'

US scientists studying the Zika virus tell the BBC that it could be a decade before a vaccine is publicly available.

D.C. to Continue Snow Emergency Until Wednesday Evening

Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser says a snow emergency will remain in effect for the nation’s capital until 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. The emergency means parking isn’t allowed on snow emergency routes. Vehicles that park on those roads will be towed. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SjDA8j
via IFTTT

Snowed-Under East Coast Cities Getting Closer to Normal Routines

After more than three days with life at a virtual standstill in the nation’s capital and elsewhere up and down the East Coast, the cities hit hard by a massive snowstorm were getting closer to their normal routines. In the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PT2as1
via IFTTT

Class Action Follows California Commissioner’s Decision in Applied Dispute

An adverse decision from the California Department of Insurance could do more than just put workers’ compensation carrier Applied Underwriters and one of its companies on the defensive now that a class action suit has been filed seeking to recover …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nob49Z
via IFTTT

West Virginia Town Begins Recovery From 42-inch Snowfall

It wasn’t quite like winning Powerball, yet the small West Virginia town of Glengary is getting a lot of attention for receiving the most snow from the recent storm: 42 inches. “Yeah, it’s cool. That’s about it,” said Robert Bragg, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20sY8Ow
via IFTTT

Fox bashes Trump over debate boycott

Fox News fires back at Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump for his refusal to participate in their debate on Thursday night.

Narragansett Bay Approved to Write P/C Insurance in Connecticut

Narragansett Bay Insurance Company (NBIC), a Rhode Island-based specialty underwriter of homeowners insurance products and services in states along the Eastern seaboard, announced that the company has been approved by the Connecticut Department of Insurance to write property/casualty insurance in …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OPCVJB
via IFTTT

JLT Specialty USA Appoints Robinson as Senior VP in Houston

JLT Specialty USA, a U.S. subsidiary of Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group plc. (JLT), has appointed Perry Robinson as senior vice president. He is based in Houston. Robinson will assist JLT’s clients with identification, management and mitigation of complex risks in …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/23tsMtF
via IFTTT

Two dead in 'targeted' homeless attack

Police are searching for suspects after two were killed and three were injured in a "targeted" attack at a camp for homeless people in Seattle.

No Contest Plea from ‘Dancing Hamster’ in California Fraud Case

A man who played a dancing hamster in car commercials and was a backup dancer for Madonna, has pleaded no contest to single counts of insurance fraud and making a false statement. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office says …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PBdRmA
via IFTTT

Alaska’s M7.1 Quake Puts Focus on State’s Emergency Preparedness

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Alaska’s most populous region has renewed focus on the state’s readiness to deal with a natural disaster. And it’s not just earthquakes that pose a danger across the vast state but also wildfires, floods, landslides …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/23tmoCK
via IFTTT

Hoverboard Bursts into Flames in California Home

A hoverboard burst into flames in a Petaluma, Calif. home, marking the second such fire in Sonoma County in a week. The Santa Rosa Press Democrat reported that the hoverboard was plugged into an electrical outlet Monday to charge when …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VrAv5C
via IFTTT

Exxon: Oil & Gas to Will Continue Dominate Energy Sector for Decades

The way Texas-based oil giant Exxon Mobil sees it, the global energy landscape won’t be radically different in 2040 than it is today. Oil and gas will remain king, accounting for an even slightly larger share of the energy supply. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Sb3Mns
via IFTTT

Genest Joins Premier Insurance Services in West as President

Rick Genest has joined Premier Insurance Services as the company’s president. Genest joins Premier from Freeway Insurance/Confie Seguros, where he was the Houston, Texas-based president. Prior to Freeway he was associate vice president of Titan Auto (Nationwide) in nine states. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Sb3MUq
via IFTTT

The first woman to run for US President

The black, female presidential candidate that history forgot

Insurer Exits Show U.S. Crop Insurance a Field for Specialists

The U.S. crop insurance market has been abandoned by some of its largest companies as lower agricultural prices crimp revenue, and uncertainty about federal aid clouds the business’s future. Cargill Inc., the largest privately held company in the U.S., last …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Sj91Qc
via IFTTT

El Faro Cargo Ship Owner Settles Death Claims with Sailors’ Families

The families of 10 sailors aboard a cargo ship that sank in a hurricane last year have settled claims with the vessel’s owner. The Florida Times-Union reports that each of the families will receive $500,000 each in the settlement with …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QCGGV0
via IFTTT

Franchises Ask Supreme Court to Hear Seattle Minimum Wage

A business group said on Monday it is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear its appeal of a lower-court ruling tossing out its challenge of part of Seattle’s law to increase the minimum wage. The International Franchise Association, which …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1NApPM4
via IFTTT

2015 Cat Bond Activity Down Slightly from Record Levels in 2014: GC Securities

While property and casualty catastrophe bond primary issuance levels were “uncharacteristically low” in the fourth quarter of 2015, totals at year-end were only slightly lower than the all-time high levels reported in 2014, according to GC Securities, a division of MMC …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Vr6PWj
via IFTTT

Lyft’s $12.5M Settlement with Ridesharing Drivers Avoids Employee Classification

Ride-hailing service Lyft has agreed to settle a proposed class action lawsuit in California by giving drivers additional workplace protections but without classifying them as employees, removing a major threat to its business model. The settlement agreement, filed late on …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Vr5G0Q
via IFTTT

VIDEO: Bridge demolished in Pennsylvania

The 107-year-old Hulton Bridge in Pennsylvania has been reduced to debris in a controlled implosion.

VIDEO: US coastal homes in perilous position

Homes have been evacuated near the city of San Francisco, after coastal erosion left properties in a perilous position.

RSA Appoints Hancock to Lead Broker Relationships, Heiss as Chief Legal Officer

RSA, announced that Derek Walsh, group general counsel, company secretary and global broker relationship director, has decided to leave RSA at the end of February after five and half years. In response to Walsh’s departure, RSA said that Jon Hancock will …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PShqpc
via IFTTT

Firms Look at New Tools Designed to Foil Hackers as Firewalls Prove Inadequate

With firewalls no longer seen as enough of a defense against security breaches, companies are looking at new tools to foil hackers trying to enter a computer network. U.S. and Israeli startups are leading the way, with new approaches such …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RNa7VB
via IFTTT

Obama calls for urgent action on Zika

US President Barack Obama calls for the rapid development of treatments against the mosquito-borne Zika virus, which has been linked to birth defects.

Marsh Launches Global Excess Cyber Risk Facility Called ‘Cyber ECHO’

Marsh has launched “Cyber ECHO”, a global excess cyber risk facility that provides more reliable insurance coverage for organizations around the world. Following a series of high-profile cyber losses, underwriters have become more selective and may actually reduce the amount …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KagijS
via IFTTT

Generali Shares Drop on Greco’s Decision to Join Zurich as CEO

Assicurazioni Generali SpA dropped to the lowest since July 2013 after Mario Greco said he was leaving the Italian insurer to join Zurich Insurance Group AG as its chief executive officer. Generali, which has yet to announce an interim CEO, traded 2.3 …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RN3xOU
via IFTTT

Insurance Placement Difficulties Delay Iranian Crude Exports to Europe

Efforts by Iran to start exporting oil to Europe are being held up as foreign tanker owners are still struggling to secure insurance for cargoes, leading shipping players said on Tuesday. A nuclear deal between world powers and Iran earlier this month …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KEzdyd
via IFTTT

Risk Point Launches RV Dealer Physical Damage & Garage Package

Risk Point LLC, a nationwide dealer open lot program for independent agents, has expanded its offerings to include physical damage and garage package coverage for franchise RV dealers. The Vehicle Inventory Program (VIP) provides dealer open lot physical damage insurance …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QrARI4
via IFTTT

Safe Harbor Pollution Insurance Increases Marine Pollution Liability Capacity

Safe Harbor Pollution Insurance, a provider of vessel pollution liability insurance, has expanded its carrier partnerships to include Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Co. (BHSI) and Argonaut Insurance Co. Safe Harbor now has more than tripled its in-house capacity. BHSI and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SaoQu9
via IFTTT

Yoga guru fined for sexual harassment

The founder of hot yoga Bikram Choudhury is ordered to pay nearly $6.5m to a lawyer who said she was sacked for investigating allegations of sexual harassment against the guru.

Special Purpose Captive Insurer Approved in Arkansas

Diamond Risk Insurance LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Baptist Health, has been approved as a captive insurer by the Arkansas Insurance Department. Arkansas Insurance Commissioner Allen Kerr said Baptist Health is the first entity in Arkansas to create its own …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ZS3WPx
via IFTTT

Centene Says Missing Hard Drives Hold Information on Nearly 1 Million

Centene Corp., a St. Louis, Mo.-based healthcare enterprise that provides products and services to government sponsored healthcare programs, announced an ongoing comprehensive internal search for six hard drives that are unaccounted for in its inventory of information technology (IT) assets. The …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OOs9mC
via IFTTT

Method Insurance Services Adds Richt as Director

Method Insurance Services, a newly formed program administrator for property and casualty insurance located in Omaha, Neb., has hired Julie Richt as director, Sales and Distribution. Richt brings 12 years of insurance experience to the table. Richt has been a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KEkdAz
via IFTTT

Trump says he will boycott next debate

Donald Trump says he will boycott the final Republican presidential debate before the Iowa caucuses and hold his own event instead.

Study: More People Killed by Guns in Tennessee than Car Accidents in 2014

More people died from gunshots than car accidents in Tennessee during 2014. The Violence Policy Center, an organization dedicated to informing people about gun violence, has produced a study comparing gun and car deaths across the nation in 2014, the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QrlkrF
via IFTTT

The Main Street America Group Launches Personal Auto Program in South Carolina

The Main Street America Group has introduced Main Street Protection Auto, its new private passenger auto insurance program for the preferred/standard marketplace in South Carolina via its statewide network of independent insurance agents. Product highlights include 20 different types of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Sa0EZ8
via IFTTT

Brentwood Services Administrators in Tennessee Promotes Brothers

Brentwood Services Administrators Inc. (BSA) has promoted Nicole Brothers to the position of claim representative I in the Tennessee Claims Department, according to Jeff Pettus, president and chief executive officer of BSA. In her new position, Brothers’ responsibilities include reviewing, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1S9ZAEB
via IFTTT

Oregon leader seized in deadly clash

US police arrest leader of Oregon armed occupation amid reports of shots being fired.

Why is the US gun lobby so successful?

How did the US gun lobby become so successful?

VIDEO: 'I could have been on board Challenger'

In January 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger was destroyed soon after take off, killing all on board. A member of the backup crew recalls the events of the day.

Iowa-Based Global Insurance Accelerator Names 2016 Class of Startups

Global Insurance Accelerator (GIA), a Des Moines, Iowa-based global business accelerator focused on developing and growing innovative insurance-centric startups, has announced its 2016 portfolio. With a global pool of twice as many applicants compared to the previous year, the five …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QAuS5O
via IFTTT

Kaplansky Insurance Acquires Doherty & White Insurance in Massachusetts

Kaplansky Insurance, an independent agency based in Needham, Massachusetts, announced that it has acquired Doherty & White Insurance Agency in Quincy, Massachusetts. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 1983, Doherty & White Insurance Agency has been a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JCNfFG
via IFTTT

Calls grow for gas facility shutdown

Angry residents call for gas leak facility to be shut down

American Family Insurance Piloting Point-Based Reward System in Illinois

Madison, Wis.-based American Family Insurance is introducing DreamKeep Rewards in Illinois, an insurance loyalty program designed to recognize and reward members every day for making smart decisions that protect their families and property. Customers earn points for completing dozens of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Vp9gIM
via IFTTT

Cross Insurance Hires Papanastasiou as Branch Manager in Massachusetts

Cross Insurance, an insurance agency headquartered in Bangor, Maine, has hired John Papanastasiou as branch manager in Peabody, Massachusetts. In this new role, Papanastasiou will assume responsibility for day-to-day operations and business growth of Cross Insurance’s Peabody office. The Peabody …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nwHLm8
via IFTTT

Zurich Names Generali’s Greco as CEO, with Task of Driving Turnaround

  Zurich Insurance Group AG hired Assicurazioni Generali SpA’s Mario Greco as chief executive officer, giving him the task of turning around the company, after losses in its general insurance business forced the Swiss insurer to abandon a takeover bid. Greco, 56, will …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1TmfUkF
via IFTTT

US issues fresh Zika virus guidance

US health officials issue new guidance for doctors to deal with the Zika virus, which is suspected of causing serious birth defects.

Cleveland officers sacked over shooting

Cleveland police fire six police officers who shot more than 100 rounds into car, killing an unarmed black couple in 2012.

First Nation children 'short-changed'

Canada discriminates against First Nation children living on reserves by providing less funding for their child welfare system, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal says.

Godfather actor Abe Vigoda dies aged 94

The actor Abe Vigoda, who played a doomed Mafia soldier in the 1972 gangster classic The Godfather, has died aged 94.

RMS Examines Massive Blizzard That Swept Through East Coast

The massive blizzard that swept through the East Coast over the weekend may result in hundreds of millions of dollars in insured losses. The blizzard, unofficially named “Winter Storm Jonas” by the Weather Channel, brought a combination of freezing rain, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JC24bz
via IFTTT

South Carolina Moped Deaths Up By 57 Percent in 2015

The number of people who died in moped accidents in South Carolina increased 57 percent in 2015 from the year before, leading a legislative supporter of laws for the vehicles to reissue his call for tighter safety. The Greenville News …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1UoUYaN
via IFTTT

AXIS Healthcare Launches Pandemic Protection for Hospitals

AXIS Healthcare—the division of AXIS Insurance that provides professional liability insurance and associated standard casualty coverages for physician groups, hospitals, allied healthcare facilities and individual physicians—has launched a new medical catastrophe (contagion) business interruption product for hospitals. The coverage protects …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1TlOATq
via IFTTT

West Virginia Governor to Introduce Ridesharing Bill

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin is on board with letting Uber offer rides in West Virginia. Tomblin spokeswoman Shayna Varner says the governor plans to introduce a bill letting ridesharing companies, including Uber and Lyft, operate in the state. An Uber …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OW8Sh4
via IFTTT

Southeast States Recovering from Record-Breaking Snowstorm

A massive winter storm that hit the Southeast and East Coast over the weekend set a snowfall record in West Virginia, caused tornadoes in Mississippi and stranded motorists on a cold highway in Kentucky overnight. Thousands were also left without …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KCAeab
via IFTTT

Shooting reported at San Diego hospital

An active shooting situation has been reported at the Naval Medical Center San Diego in California, according to the hospital's Facebook page.

VIDEO: First US vegan 'butcher' opens

The first vegan butcher shop in America has opened in Minneapolis. Each meat-free meat is made from non-GMO wheat with added seasonings and sauces.

Uber Will Ground Chopper Flights at Utah’s Sundance Film Festival

A Utah county reached an agreement over the weekend with ridesharing company Uber to stop operating helicopter flights at the Sundance Film Festival. Summit County said helicopter companies agreed to cease operating in connection with the festival. The companies have …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1S8OZK6
via IFTTT

My Little Pony sued over font dispute

Toymaker Hasbro is being sued by a fonts company over allegations it used a typeface to market its My Little Pony products without permission.

'Doomsday Clock' set for an update

Scientists behind the so-called Doomsday Clock are expected to announce if humanity is any closer to ruin on Tuesday.

JP Morgan pays $1.42bn in Lehman claim

US bank JP Morgan Chase will pay $1.42bn (£990m) to settle most of the legal claims accusing it of draining Lehman Brothers of cash at the time of the 2008 financial crash.

Hoverboards Unwelcomed at More Utah Universities

Several Utah universities are joining colleges around the country in restricting hoverboards on campus as federal officials review dozens of fires tied to the self-balancing scooters. At least two Utah schools, including Brigham Young University, bar riding them on campus, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Qzf3wc
via IFTTT

Settlement May be Resolved over Utah Comic Con Naming Rights

The organizers of Salt Lake Comic Con and San Diego Comic-Con may be on the verge of resolving an ongoing name-trademark dispute. Attorneys for the two pop-culture conventions asked a federal judge to give them more time to work on …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Vo7KXw
via IFTTT

QBE’s Wiseley Named Head of Hiscox USA Programs

Specialty insurer Hiscox has appointed QBE’s Rick Wiseley as its head of programs for its Hiscox USA business unit.  Prior to joining Hiscox, Wiseley held senior roles with Hannover Re, Fireman’s Fund and Markel.  Immediately prior to joining Hiscox, he …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SIehhC
via IFTTT

Insurance Department Tally on California Wildfires $1B

Damage from two destructive Northern California wildfires that killed six and sent thousands fleeing their homes topped $1 billion in insured losses, according to a preliminary estimate by the state’s insurance department. The two fires started days apart in September, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nlwGDW
via IFTTT

The Zebra Is Latest Insurance ‘Disrupter’ to Attract Funding

The Zebra, an online auto insurance comparison company, said it has closed $17 million in Series A funding with investment from Mark Cuban, Mike Maples Jr. (of Twitter and Lyft), Simon Nixon (of Moneysupermarket), Silverton Partners, and new investors Daher …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1UoHpZ1
via IFTTT

DeLucchi Succeeds Hauge as President of Cal Insurance

Joseph DeLucchi has succeeded Scott Hauge as the president and owner of CAL Insurance & Associates Inc. Hauge has led CAL for the last 37 years. Hauge will remain on with CAL as a broker and member of the board of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PPHi4W
via IFTTT

Securities Class Action Activity Rose 11% in 2015: Cornerstone

Federal securities class action litigation rose to 189 filings in 2015, an 11 percent increase over 2014 levels, according to new research. “Securities Class Action Filings—2015 Year in Review,” a report issued by Cornerstone Research and the Stanford Law School …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1lOcAkD
via IFTTT

AIG CEO Says Future Split Possible, But Downplays SIFI Risk; Will ‘Narrow’ P/C Focus

American International Group (AIG)  CEO Peter Hancock, who announced the sale of  the company’s AIG Advisor Group and a partial spin-off of mortgage insurer United Guaranty, said AIG is open to further divestiture, even of its biggest divisions, however it …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VnQMsh
via IFTTT

Obama bans solitary jail for juveniles

President Barack Obama has said he will ban solitary confinement as a form of punishment for juvenile and low-level offenders in US federal prisons.

Texas Led Nation in Catastrophic Losses in 2015

Tornadoes, hailstorms and fires took their toll on Texas last year with insured losses well over $3 billion, according to an insurer trade group The state had over three times as many claims and almost three times the dollar amount in losses …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nvVb1X
via IFTTT

Accidental gunman feared mass shooting

A man who accidentally wounded a woman in a suburban Seattle cinema tells police he brought his gun to theatre because he feared a mass shooting.

Texas Flooring Company Fined Nearly $67K After Worker Falls

Federal safety regulators cited a Texas flooring company for workplace hazards after a worker required hospitalization due to workplace injuries. Subfloor Systems Inc. of Hurst, Texas, was fined $66,990 by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration after a worker fell …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Tltgxz
via IFTTT

Minnesota Company Settles Transgender Discrimination Suit for $115K

Deluxe Financial Services Corp. (Deluxe), a Shoreview, Minn.-based check-printing and financial services corporation, has agreed to pay $115,000 as part of the settlement of a sex discrimination and harassment lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Uopwtm
via IFTTT

AIG to Sell Advisor Group Broker-Dealer to Lightyear

American International Group Inc.  has agreed to sell AIG Advisor Group to investment funds affiliated with Lightyear Capital LLC, a private equity firm specializing in financial services investing, and PSP Investments, one of Canada’s largest pension investment managers. Terms of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nldpCo
via IFTTT

Uber driver pulls gun on passenger

An Uber driver in Florida admits to police that he drew a gun on a passenger who said he felt sick in his car, despite the firm's firearms ban.

AIG Rejects Full Split; Will IPO Mortgage Business, Sell Advisory Unit, Reorganize into ‘Modular’ Units

American International Group Inc. announced $3.6 billion in expenses to fill a reserve shortfall after higher-than-expected claims costs and will exit its mortgage insurer and sell an adviser network as Chief Executive Officer Peter Hancock seeks to boost returns and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OMqLky
via IFTTT

RSA Appoints Stewart as Chief Risk Officer for UK and Western Europe

London-based RSA has appointed Doug Stewart to the new role of chief risk officer for the UK and western Europe. Stewart will be responsible for the governance of significant risks to the UK and Western European businesses, including strategic, insurance, reputational, operational …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1S8rMYg
via IFTTT

Bank of England’s Bailey Is Surprise Choice for Chief of U.K. Regulator, FCA

Bank of England Deputy Governor Andrew Bailey will become the new chief executive officer of the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority, as the Chancellor George Osborne turned to a familiar face following a six-month search for the country’s top markets regulator. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Uo71Fw
via IFTTT

Munich Re Raises Shareholding in India’s Apollo Munich Health Insurance

Munich Re will acquire an additional 23.27 percent of shares of Apollo Munich Health Insurance Co. Ltd., from its joint venture partner, the Apollo Hospitals Group, India, increasing its shareholding from 25.5 percent to 48.75 percent. Representatives of both companies …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JAVodV
via IFTTT

Democrats spar ahead of Iowa caucus

Democratic presidential hopefuls try to land a winning blow as they debate for the last time before the selection process begins in Iowa next week.

XL Catlin Opens Brisbane Office, Continuing Regional Expansion

XL Catlin’s insurance segment announced it has opened its third office in Australia, located in Brisbane. The office will be initially staffed by Geoff Still and Steve Rogers covering property & casualty underwriting, respectively, with expansion planned into other lines …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SgF43a
via IFTTT

EU Security Chiefs Warn that Terrorist Attacks Highly Likely in Europe

Islamic State and other militants are very likely to attempt big new attacks in Europe following those in Paris, the EU’s police agency said on Monday, echoing previous warnings by senior security officials. The assessment was based on discussions concluded …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SgB6HW
via IFTTT

Supply Chains Thwart Climate Risk Management for 75 Major Companies: Report

Goldman Sachs Group Inc., Coca-Cola Co. and 73 other companies that together buy more than $2 trillion of goods and services are unprepared for climate shocks because suppliers are ignoring requests for data on their exposure to rising temperatures and climate regulation. Almost half …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1K7UmGg
via IFTTT

Report: Florida’s Workers’ Comp Market Still Strong but Uncertainty Remains

The latest workers’ compensation report from Florida’s insurance regulator says the state’s workers’ compensation market remained competitive and well capitalized in 2014, but reforms put in place by state lawmakers in 2003 may have reached their maximum effectiveness. Findings and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1K7LbWb
via IFTTT

China's on-off relationship with The Simpsons

China's on-off relationship with The Simpsons

N.Y. Group: Scaffold Law Will Consume Billions From Public Projects Spending

The Lawsuit Reform Alliance of New York (LRANY) said New York’s “Scaffold Law” continues to drive up the cost of construction in the state and warned that the law would consume billions of dollars from the newly proposed infrastructure projects …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SHCdBX
via IFTTT

Anti-abortion filmmakers face charges

A Texas grand jury has cleared Planned Parenthood of misconduct after the abortion provider was accused of selling foetal body parts for profit.

Do white rappers benefit from 'white privilege'?

The white rapper who says he has an unfair advantage

VIDEO: What Mexicans think of Donald Trump

What Mexicans think of Donald Trump

Texas Stamping Office: Growth in U.S. Surplus Lines Continued in 2015

Collectively, the surplus lines insurance service/stamping offices across the country processed a record-breaking $25 billion in premium in 2015, exhibiting 3.6 percent growth over the $24.2 billion in premium processed during 2014, the Surplus Lines Stamping Office of Texas (SLSOT) …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OL9KHy
via IFTTT

Inspiring Innovation an Aim of Iowa’s 3rd Global Insurance Symposium

Iowa will hold its third annual Global Insurance Symposium April 26-28, 2016, in downtown Des Moines. This year’s symposium is themed “Inspiring Innovation in the Insurance Industry.” Planners say registration for the event is now open. The symposium is jointly sponsored …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1NwjvFj
via IFTTT

JLT Specialty USA Appoints Trinkleback as Sr. VP, Casualty Risk Control Leader

JLT Specialty USA, a U.S. subsidiary of Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group plc. (JLT), named Robert Trinkleback as its new senior vice president, Casualty Risk Control leader at JLT’s Chicago office. Trinkleback, who most recently served as executive vice president of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1POeh9T
via IFTTT

Cunningham Named Chief Information Officer at Grange Insurance

Grange Insurance, based in Columbus, Ohio, announced that Tim Cunningham has joined the company as vice president, chief information officer. Cunningham will lead major technology investments across all lines of business. With nearly 30 years of experience managing technology systems …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ZZP5I7
via IFTTT

California Insurance Commissioner Calls for Insurance Divestment from Coal

California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones on Monday asked all insurance companies doing business in California to voluntarily divest from their investments in thermal coal as part of a nationwide call to reduce carbon emissions to do battle with climate change. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VlFLre
via IFTTT

Sachs Walsh Hires Satrazemis as Commercial Lines Manager in Connecticut

Sachs Walsh Insurance, an independent agency in Westport, Connecticut, has hired Christos Satrazemis to replace Arthur Sachs as Commercial Lines manager. Sachs, who founded the agency in 1978, retired at the end of 2015. In addition to his responsibilities for …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VlnCK4
via IFTTT

XL Catlin Expands Architects & Engineers Product to Cover Drones, Technology Risks

XL Catlin’s Design Professional insurance business has enhanced its professional liability insurance for architects and engineers (A&E) as well as other design professionals. XL Catlin’s newest Design Professional insurance enhancements include: Professional liability protection for a firm’s use of drones …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PgjJpG
via IFTTT

Manhunt for escaped US inmates

A manhunt is under way for three "dangerous" inmates who escaped from a maximum security prison in California.

VIDEO: Drone footage of US snow - in 60 seconds

Drone footage captures some of the scenes following the snow storm that gripped many parts of the United States.

USI Insurance Services Acquires CBDI in New Jersey

USI Insurance Services announced Monday that it has acquired CBDI Inc., an employee benefits wholesale brokerage operation based in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. CBDI will become part of Emerson Reid LLC, USI’s employee …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Vlh9yT
via IFTTT

Mississippi Cleans up From Snowstorm, Tornado Damage

Call it the tale of two storms: Just as about 2 inches of snow was about to fall in northern Mississippi, two tornadoes tore through parts of south Mississippi. The National Weather Service in Jackson confirmed Friday that at least …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Sfgkbz
via IFTTT

'Putin is corrupt' says US Treasury

The US Treasury tells the BBC that it considers Russia's President Putin to be corrupt - and many of his aides are already under Western sanctions.

Group Asking Residents Use Drones to Map El Niño Flooding in California

Forget about selfies. In California, residents are using smartphones and drones to document the coastline’s changing face. Starting this month, The Nature Conservancy is asking tech junkies to capture the flooding and coastal erosion that come with El Niño, a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WKlzAE
via IFTTT

California Gas Leak Follows Years of Lax Regulation of Aging Storage Wells

Long before a natural gas storage well sprung a disastrous leak near Los Angeles, Calif., utilities and national industry groups were raising alarms about the danger of aging underground storage infrastructure. The leaking well’s owner, Southern California Gas Co., warned …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Sf37zB
via IFTTT

USI Names Goldman Employee Benefits Leader for Mountain Region

USI Insurance Services has named David Goldman employee benefits leader and producer for its Mountain region. Goldman is responsible for driving new business growth as well as managing a book of clients for USI. Goldman has more than 25 years …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KzVGwr
via IFTTT

JLT Specialty Names Hernandez Senior Vice President in California

JLT Specialty USA has named Cari Hernandez senior vice president for its entertainment and hospitality practice. Hernandez will be based in JLT’s Los Angeles, Calif. office, where she will manage the needs of clients in gaming, resorts, events, sports and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WKhxbB
via IFTTT

Doyle Joins Leavitt Group in Central California

Salinas, Calif.-based Leavitt Central Coast Insurance Services has hired Deana Doyle as a personal agent. Doyle focuses on insurance for home and auto and is licensed in property/casualty and life and health. Doyle worked in personal insurance for 1- years …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ZYVRhh
via IFTTT

Massive Blizzard Brought Flooding to Jersey Shore, Coastal Towns

A massive winter storm that dumped as much as 3 feet of snow on the eastern United States raised flood waters in communities up and down the Atlantic Coast Saturday, closing roads and prompting evacuations. The first round of flooding …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VkRM00
via IFTTT

Browning-Ferris Files Appeal of NLRB’s Joint Employer Liability Ruling

A California waste management company has launched a legal challenge to a new U.S. labor board standard for “joint employment” that could make it easier for unions and regulators to hold companies accountable for the practices of staffing agencies, contractors …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nu5nrK
via IFTTT

Report: East Coast Blizzard to Cause Multi-Billion Dollar Economic Losses

Massive blizzards that paralyzed much of the U.S. East Coast in the past few days are likely to cause “multi-billion” dollar economic losses in one of the worst storms in the region in over a century, reinsurance broker Aon Benfield …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nK213B
via IFTTT

Gleason Tapped to Head Global Energy Industry Practice at Ironshore

Ironshore Inc. has named Ronald A. Gleason as Global Energy Industry practice leader. A senior vice president based in Houston, Gleason currently serves as Ironshore’s regional executive for South Central. He will continue in that role. Gleason will be responsible for …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Pxn5QW
via IFTTT

Snowy East Coast Digs Out After Massive Weekend Blizzard

Millions of Americans started digging themselves out Sunday after a mammoth blizzard with hurricane-force winds and record-setting snowfall brought much of the East Coast to an icy standstill. New York and Baltimore began lifting travel restrictions and hearty souls ventured …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PfV5FJ
via IFTTT

Vullo Nomination Signals Shift at N.Y. Dept. of Financial Services

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signaled a shift in New York’s oversight of Wall Street, tapping a longtime corporate lawyer to run the state banking regulator previously overseen by an aggressive career law enforcer. Cuomo on Jan. 21 nominated Maria …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1S5YKbM
via IFTTT

KBW Analyst Dismisses AIG Mortgage Business Spinoff

American International Group Inc.’s plan to spin off a portion of its mortgage insurance unit is “almost pointless” given the challenges that Chief Executive Officer Peter Hancock faces to fix the much larger property/casualty business, an analyst at Keefe, Bruyette …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ZNeG1y
via IFTTT

Oklahoma to Host 5th Annual Tornado Summit

The 2016 National Tornado Summit, the 5th annual event, will be held Feb. 29-March 2 in Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma Insurance Department announced. The National Tornado Summit is an educational forum that provides attendees with the knowledge they need to …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1KzEqrl
via IFTTT

Vaidyan Appointed to Lead GIC Re as India’s 1st Insurer Chairwoman

Alice Vaidyan has been appointed as chair and managing director of General Insurance Corp. of India (GIC Re), the national reinsurer.  She is the first woman to be appointed as chair in the history of Indian insurance industry. Vaidyan previously …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QvjMij
via IFTTT

Keane, O’Brien Join Agency Alliance SIAA

The nationwide agency alliance SIAA  (Strategic  Insurance  Agency  Alliance) reports  that  James  Keane has  joined  the  company  as  vice  president  of  MarketFinder  and  Aimee  O’Brien  is the new  director  of  Member  Services  and  Public  Relations. Keane  will  be  responsible  for …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VkzoEO
via IFTTT

GM Avoids Showdown in First Ignition Trial But Faces Many More Ahead

General Motors Co. just watched the first big court case over an admitted deadly defect in its cars melt down as an Oklahoma postman who claimed GM ruined his life dropped his suit, accused of lying. The case was the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/23nIKFI
via IFTTT

Zurich’s Ratings Remain Unchanged Despite Projected Q4 2015 Losses: A.M. Best

The financial strength rating of A+ (Superior) and the issuer credit rating of “aa-” of Zurich Insurance Co. Ltd. (ZIC) and its rated affiliates are unchanged, following Zurich Insurance Group’s preliminary update on the performance of its general insurance business, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1S5FJpV
via IFTTT

China’s Insurers Received Premium Income of $365 Billion in 2015

The premium income received by China’s insurance firms hit 2.4 trillion yuan ($364.85 billion) in 2015, the industry regulator said on Monday. This means insurance premium income rose 20 percent last year from 2014, Chen Yingdong, a spokesman for the China Insurance Regulatory Commission, told a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ORzwHS
via IFTTT

Zika virus 'to spread across Americas'

The Zika virus is likely to spread across the nearly all of the Americas, the World Health Organization has warned.

XL Catlin Appoints 2 P&C Underwriters in Brazil to Help with Strategic Expansion

XL Catlin announced it has strengthened its Brazilian team with two appointments. Patricia Britto has joined as property underwriter and Luiz Carlos Dos Santos as senior casualty underwriter – both based in Sao Paulo. These two appointments are part of …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PwMM3Y
via IFTTT

Gene Creating Antibiotic-Resistant Superbug Detected in at Least 19 Countries

Just two months ago, researchers in China identified a gene that can make bacteria resistant to a last-resort antibiotic called colistin. It was a bombshell discovery for people who follow superbugs. Now that gene has been detected in at least 19 …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PwM072
via IFTTT

Global Insurers Explore Opportunities in Iran, Market Worth Premiums of $7.4B

Global insurance firms are circling Iran for business opportunities following the lifting of sanctions – and the first test of their appetite could come in March when some Iranian companies seek new cover. Insurers, the reinsurers that share their risk and the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WJe50R
via IFTTT

Broncos to face Panthers in Super Bowl

The Denver Broncos pip the New England Patriots 20-18 and will face the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.

Citizens Releases Analysis of Increasing Florida Water Loss Costs

Water loss claims, exacerbated by assignment of benefits, are driving higher rates in South Florida and increasingly across the state, according to a just released analysis conducted by Citizens Property Insurance Corp. for state insurance regulators. The insurer says the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PN0Sik
via IFTTT

Two Florida Clinic Owners Charged With Defrauding Insurers

The Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Insurance Fraud (DIF) announced the arrest of two unlicensed clinic owners from Miami-Dade County. Noel Ruiz of Miami and Alberto B Franco of Hialeah were accused of being involved in a “straw owner” scheme …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WIMpt8
via IFTTT

AIG Eyes Partial Spinoff of Mortgage Insurance Unit: Reuters

American International Group Inc. has decided to pursue a spin-off of its mortgage insurance business, according to people familiar with the matter, in a move that would come as the U.S. insurer fends off activist investor Carl Icahn. The spin-off …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PuavIk
via IFTTT

Texas Man Gets Life for 10th Drunk Driving Conviction

A judge concerned about public safety sentenced a 62-year-old North Texas man to life in prison for his 10th drunken driving conviction since the 1980s. Ivy Ray Eberhardt, of Weatherford, Texas, would be eligible for parole after serving 15 years. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1K5O6yL
via IFTTT

Flood-Prone Louisiana to Get $234M to Move Village, Control Stormwater

In a nod to the threat Louisiana faces from flooding, the federal government is sending $233.8 million in grants to Louisiana to relocate a coastal American-Indian village, prevent damage from hurricanes and make a suburban slice of New Orleans better …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/20nTtxs
via IFTTT

Federal Disaster Declaration Approved for Missouri

President Barack Obama approved a major disaster declaration for 33 Missouri counties damaged by severe weather and flooding in late December and early January. The declaration makes assistance programs available to eligible residents for such things as temporary housing and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VjqQxZ
via IFTTT

Michigan Firm to Pay $31K to Settle Discrimination Suit

Michigan-based Downriver Community Services will pay $31,000 and provide equitable relief to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency announced. According to EEOC’s suit, Downriver refused to extend additional unpaid leave …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Pu63t7
via IFTTT

VIDEO: 'New Yorkers do it better'

The day after the blizzard New Yorkers and tourists were out in Manhattan enjoying the snow.

POWERS Insurance and Benefits Adds Dowd, Walgren

Clayton, Mo.-based independent insurance agency POWERS Insurance and Benefits hired Meaghan Dowd as personal account manager and Barb Walgren as insurance advisor. Dowd will assist producers in procuring new business. She also will handle risk management and day-to-day service for …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1S4y4bm
via IFTTT

BHSI Launches Executive First Portfolio for Private Companies

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI)  has expanded its executive & professional lines appetite to private companies in the U.S., launching the Executive First Private Company Portfolio. The portfolio offers directors & officers liability, employment practices liability (EPL), fiduciary liability, employed …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nIonCp
via IFTTT

Academy diversity pledges welcomed

Pledges made to address the lack of diversity in the organisation behind the Oscars are welcomed by Don Cheadle, Matt Damon and others.

Iran eyes purchase of Boeing planes

Iran is considering buying planes from US manufacturer Boeing as it moves to upgrade its fleet following the removal of UN sanctions.

Snowbound US eastern seaboard digs out

Millions of people in the US eastern seaboard wake to a thick blanket of snow that has paralysed transport links in New York and Washington DC.

VIDEO: Snowfall at the White House: Timelapse

Timelapse footage of The White House being covered in snow.

Donald Trump and the politics of paranoia

Success of Donald Trump should not be a surprise

Teenager charged over Canada shootings

A 17-year-old boy is charged with four counts of first-degree murder after shootings - one of them at a school - in Canada's western Saskatchewan province.

VIDEO: Times Square snow timelapse

Timelapse video shows Times Square progressing from no snow on Friday evening into a blanket of snow by Saturday afternoon.

Bloomberg 'ponders White House bid'

The billionaire former mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg, is thinking about running for president as an independent candidate, US media report.

VIDEO: Washington mayor: 'Stay off the streets'

The Mayor of Washington DC, Muriel Bowser, urges people to stay off the city's streets.

Eastern US wakes up to mammoth snowfall

Parts of the eastern United States wake up to 46cm (18 inches) of snow after a huge blizzard sweeps across the region.

US 'ready for Syria military solution'

US Vice-President Joe Biden says the US and Turkey are prepared to seek a military solution in Syria if a political agreement proves impossible.

Reusable Bezos rocket revisits space

US entrepreneur Jeff Bezos reflies the New Shepard rocket and capsule system he launched and recovered last November.

VIDEO: US toddler found on busy road

A toddler in the US state of Oregon is safely returned to his family after a police officer finds him wandering on a busy road.

VIDEO: DC blizzard: How bad will it get?

As the East coast prepares for the ongoing snowstorm, Washington DC residents are stocking up for the weekend. How big will it get?

US nuclear missile damaged in accident

Three US airmen damaged a nuclear missile in its silo while carrying out maintenance in 2014, but officials insist there was no risk to public safety.

VIDEO: The German POWs who picked US potatoes

The German prisoners of war who harvested US potatoes

Shkreli asks Congress for immunity

Former Turing Pharmaceuticals CEO Martin Shkreli has asked US Congress for immunity in order to testify before a hearing next Tuesday.

VIDEO: POWs who picked potatoes in Maine

Kay Bell looks back at the German prisoners of war who picked potatoes in Maine.

Oscars pledge to diversify membership

The Academy pledges to double the number of female and minority members by 2020 after a row over lack of diversity in this year's Oscar nominations.

VIDEO: Snow-hit cities give US advice

The US is facing a snowstorm which could dump near-record levels of snow from Washington to New York.

Is Donald Trump now unstoppable?

Is Donald Trump now unstoppable?

Police respond to Canada school 'shooting'

Canadian police say they are responding to “serious incident” at a school in Saskatchewan amid reports of gunshots

Starkweather & Shepley Announces Leadership Succession Plan

Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc., the largest independent insurance agency in Rhode Island, has announced a leadership succession plan. The agency said Nat Calamis, president and chief executive officer, and William McGillivray, chairman and chief financial officer, will be …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RDV1BG
via IFTTT

US acts against Russia honorary consuls

The US withdraws the credentials of five out of Russia's six honorary consuls, citing the harassment of its own staff in Russia.

Extreme Winter Weather Hits the Southeast

States across the Southeast, including Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia, were hit by extreme winter weather this week and forecasters say it isn’t finished yet. Another two feet of snow is still expected across some of the Southeast …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PsWFjb
via IFTTT

Maryland AG, Lawmakers Look to Improve Structured Settlement Law

Maryland’s attorney general and lawmakers are looking at ways to protect the public from bad deals offered by businesses that have bought legal settlements from lead poisoning victims, such as Baltimore’s Freddie Gray, at a steep discount. David Nitkin, a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RDDLg0
via IFTTT

Risk Strategies Hires Landry as Loss-Control Engineer in Boston

Risk Strategies Company, a privately held, national insurance brokerage and risk management firm, has hired Amy M. Landry as a property loss-control engineer. Landry is based in Risk Strategies’ Boston headquarters office. Landry is a certified fire protection specialist (CFPS) …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WBlEqs
via IFTTT

Coal Miner Killed in Kentucky, 3rd Industry Fatality in 2016

A coal miner in western Kentucky died after being pinned against a wall by a mobile digging machine in an underground mine, the first coal mining death in the state this year and the third nationally. The death prompted a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RDBBNp
via IFTTT

Is Trump causing a Republican civil war?

Is Trump causing a Republican civil war?

Insurance Noodle Expands Quoting to Homeowners Insurance Market

Insurance Noodle, a membership-based online platform for insurance agents, has rolled out its new homeowner’s insurance quoting capabilities. Agents who join Insurance Noodle can now access homeowner’s quotes for standard, difficult-to-insure, and high-value homes, as well as for renter’s and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JpqPI8
via IFTTT

New York Vehicular Homicide Case Tests Limits of Criminal Blame

A New York man is about to go on trial in vehicular homicide case that tests the limits of criminal consequences. He wasn’t behind the wheel when a police officer was struck and killed — he was leaning against the …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PaOIU7
via IFTTT

Haylor, Freyer & Coon Adds 3 Managers in New York

Haylor, Freyer & Coon Inc., an independent agency based in Syracuse, New York, announced the addition of three new managers for its newly launched Private Client Division. The agency hired Craig Van Epps as operations and sales development manager, and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RZfUYK
via IFTTT

Blizzard Heads Toward U.S. East; Airlines Cancel Flights

A dangerous winter storm will bring snow by the foot to the U.S. mid-Atlantic, including Washington, threatening at least 50 million people in its path while canceling thousands of flights and closing schools and government offices. Washington and Baltimore may …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OC5lXc
via IFTTT

Plaintiff in First ‘Bellwether’ GM Ignition Switch Trial Drops Case

The Oklahoma mail carrier at the center of the first trial over General Motors Co.’s deadly ignition-switch defect is dropping his claims after being accused of lying to the court. Robert Scheuer, 49, will walk away from the case empty- …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ZH08jP
via IFTTT

Olympic champion Johnson dies at 55

Bill Johnson, the first American man to win an Olympic gold medal in alpine skiing, dies at the age of 55 after a long illness.

Sotheby's to bring earnings back to US

New York-based auction house Sotheby's is to bring overseas earnings back to the US to help fund a share buyback programme.

Judge Hits Plaintffs’ Lawyers in GM Ignition Switch Trial

General Motors Co. got a boost in the first trial over a deadly ignition-switch defect as a judge slammed plaintiffs’ lawyers for failing to vet their client, an Oklahoma mail carrier accused by the carmaker of lying to the court. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OBY0qH
via IFTTT

Axa Buying France’s Tallest Building, Tour First

Axa Investment Managers Real Assets, the property unit of the French insurer, agreed to buy France’s tallest skyscraper from affiliates of Beacon Capital Partners. Axa is buying Tour First on behalf of a group of investors, the asset manager said …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JoGdo1
via IFTTT

Property Crimes Down, Violent Crime Up: FBI

The overall number of property crimes declined in the U.S. while the number of violent crimes rose for the first six months of 2015 compared to 2014. The FBI report — Preliminary Semiannual Uniform Crime Report— is based on information …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PmXvnX
via IFTTT

Viola Davis joins Oscar diversity row

Two-time Oscar nominee Davis blames the "Hollywood movie-making system" for a lack of opportunity for black actors.

Bond Insurers’ Lawsuits Against Puerto Rico to Be Combined

A second lawsuit over Puerto Rico’s debt default will be joined with a similar suit in order to save time and money and avoid inconsistent rulings, a U.S. federal judge said on Thursday. Financial Guaranty Insurance Co., or FGIC, sued …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PIPq7m
via IFTTT

Auto Recalls in U.S. Passed 51 Million in 2015

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Thursday that automakers recalled 51.3 million vehicles in the United States last year, the second-highest ever, in 868 separate campaigns. NHTSA and automakers have come under harsh criticism on auto safety issues …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OBOcgu
via IFTTT

Allianz to Buy Aegon’s Commercial P&C Portfolio in the Netherlands

Allianz has agreed to acquire the commercial P&C portfolio of Aegon in the Netherlands. Details of the transaction were not disclosed. Allianz’s P&C market share in the Netherlands will rise from 4.4 percent to 5.0 percent with this transaction, said …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PmKFpR
via IFTTT

Addeo Joins Worldwide Facilities Board

National wholesale broker Worldwide Facilities said that John Addeo, the founder of three national insurance brokerage companies, will be joining its board of directors. In 2008, Addeo partnered with private equity firm Genstar to found Confie Seguros, a nationwide insurance …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1K0V203
via IFTTT

Swiss Re & Partners Unveil Initiative to Speed Economic Recovery After Cat Event

Swiss Re Corporate Solutions Ltd. and Veolia have joined forces, under the auspices of The Rockefeller Foundation, to launch an infrastructure recovery initiative to speed up economic recovery in the aftermath of catastrophic events for cities across the globe. The …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1S92Gqt
via IFTTT

Gates: US 'should take more' refugees

The billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has told the BBC that the United States “should set a better example” by taking in more refugees.

Stephenson to Join JLT Re’s Marine & Energy Division in London

JLT Re announced that Martin Stephenson will join its Marine and Energy Division subject to the fulfillment of his existing contractual obligations. Stephenson will work closely with the division’s head, Nick Jay, and its senior leadership, chairing the division’s management …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1JnNwfE
via IFTTT

North Korea arrests US student

North Korea says it has arrested a US student accused of committing a "hostile act" against the state, without giving further details.

Experts Doubt Involuntary Flight Claim Would Help Texas ‘Affluenza’ Teen

An argument raised by lawyers for a Texas teenager known for using an “affluenza” defense in a fatal drunken-driving wreck — that he may have been taken to Mexico against his will — is unlikely to help his case, outside …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PImigl
via IFTTT

$142.5K Settlement Reached in Lawsuit over North Dakota Traffic Stop

The North Dakota Insurance Reserve Fund will pay $142,500 to settle a federal civil rights lawsuit against the Richland County Sheriff’s Office. The three men who filed the lawsuit alleged they were injured when two deputies, Dan Wise and Steve …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1TbyFaf
via IFTTT

Clark Tapped to Lead Nationwide’s Excess and Surplus Lines Business

Columbus, Ohio-based property/casualty insurer, Nationwide, announced that Tom Clark has been elected president of Nationwide’s Excess & Surplus lines business. In a planned leadership transition the company announced in 2014, Clark succeeds Mike Miller, who remains with Nationwide. Prior to …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1NoxOf1
via IFTTT

Florida Group Calls for Transparency in McCarty Replacement Search

The Florida Association of Insurance Reform has asked Gov. Rick Scott and his Cabinet, which consists of Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, State Attorney General Pam Bondi, and State Agricultural Commissioner Adam Putnam, to allow for input on the search …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ncQOrR
via IFTTT

Hiscox Adds Property Damage Protection to Terrorism Insurance Product

Hiscox has enhanced its stand-alone terrorism portfolio by adding new products covering property damage from malicious attacks utilizing nuclear, chemical, biological and radiological (NCBR) devices. Hiscox NCBR policies offer coverage of up to $25 million for blast damage, decontamination and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1SAMBeJ
via IFTTT

Mariah Carey and James Packer engaged

American pop star Mariah Carey is engaged to Australian billionaire James Packer, the BBC has learned.

VIDEO: 'Priest abuse cover-up went on too long'

Two of the real-life journalists who inspired the film Spotlight have spoken about their experiences exposing the scandal of paedophile Catholic priests in the US.

The crazy way Americans elect their presidents

The craziness of the US presidential election

Flint: Life in a poisoned city

Flint residents learn to live without tap water

Veterans fight Palin's PTSD claim

Veterans say Palin doesn't understand PTSD

Texas Supreme Court: Loss of Use Damages Allowed in Total Loss Cases

Are loss off use damages, such as lost profits, allowed in Texas when an insured has recovered fair market value on a commercial vehicle that is deemed a total loss after an accident? The Texas Supreme Court thinks so, despite …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QhSvxQ
via IFTTT

How did Puerto Rico get into such a mess?

How did Puerto Rico get into such a mess?

Survey of Economists Shows Climate Change Impact Sooner, More Severe

The impact from climate change is more imminent than most believe, and it’s going to take a big economic chunk out of a lot of bottom-lines. That’s according to a recent report from the Institute for Policy Integrity, a non-partisan …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1QoDNqQ
via IFTTT

US policeman jailed for life for rape

A police officer is sentenced to life in prison for raping and sexually assaulting black women in the poor part of Oklahoma where he worked.

Ironshore Opens Seattle Branch Office to be Led by Sonon

Ironshore Inc. has announced the opening of a branch office in Seattle, Wash., to be led by Daniel Sonon as branch executive. Sonon will be responsible for marketing across all Ironshore business lines, reporting to Jeremy Frumkin, branch executive based …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1WyIKxJ
via IFTTT

Alliant Taps Hostelley in Colorado for Aviation Practice

Alliant Insurance Services Inc. has hired aviation industry specialist Darwin Hostelley as first vice president. Hostelley will be based in Denver, Colo. Hostelley is a certified pilot. Prior to Alliant he was a senior vice president with a global insurance …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PlhROm
via IFTTT

California Commissioner OKs New insurance Products to Fill Ridesharing Gap

California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones approved a new insurance product by USAA designed to close the gap in insurance coverage for drivers driving for all ridesharing companies. The product is now available to USAA’s California drivers for all ridesharing companies, …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1ZPvTfY
via IFTTT

Northern Mid-Atlantic Region Braces for Big Storm, Significant Snowfall

The South and East are bracing for a nor’easter at week’s end with the potential for significant snowfall. The National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center warns of heavy, “perhaps crippling” snow across the northern mid-Atlantic region, including Baltimore, Washington and …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OIYk4I
via IFTTT

Sandridge Energy Agrees to Reduce Wastewater Volume in Oklahoma Wells

Sandridge Energy has agreed to a plan from the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Oil and Gas Conservation Division (OGCD) that will both reduce the volume of wastewater being injected in the Medford and Cherokee/Byron areas, and convert some wells from disposal …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1PHjrUS
via IFTTT

Mass. Senate to Consider Ban on Using Handheld Cellphones While Driving

Motorists in Massachusetts may soon have to put down their cellphones when they’re on the road. A bill prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile electronic devices while driving would also make it illegal to enter information by hand into a …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1Jle8Ol
via IFTTT

Oklahoma City Man Charged with Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud charges have been filed against an Oklahoma City man, the state attorney general’s office announced. Adam Lee McHolland is accused of filing a false insurance claim stating his motorcycle had been stolen. After submitting a proof of loss statement …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VboQYv
via IFTTT

NYC Mayor de Blasio Says City’s Streets Have Never Been Safer

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio says the city’s streets have never been safer. The Democratic mayor on Tuesday said traffic and pedestrian fatalities dropped to their lowest level in 2015, ever since they began record keeping in 1910. …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1P8rUEC
via IFTTT

N.Y. Gov. Cuomo Nominates Vullo to Head Department of Financial Services

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo today nominated Maria Vullo, an attorney and former staffer, as superintendent of the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). The nomination comes eight months after the May 2015 departure of former superintendent Benjamin …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1OIUs3P
via IFTTT

Additional $5.1M Recovered for Louisiana Insurance Policyholders in 2015

The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) announced that in 2015 an additional $5.1 million in insurance claim payments was recovered on behalf of policyholders. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says these funds are the result of LDI staff working with company …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1VblXXI
via IFTTT

NFP Names Savage as COO of Midwest P/C Division

Global insurance broker NFP Corp. has appointed Patrick Savage as chief operating officer (COO) for NFP Property & Casualty, Midwest. Savage will lead operations and finance for NFP Property & Casualty, Midwest and will use his expertise in the P/C …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1nbPg16
via IFTTT

Low oil price lifts United profits

United Airlines saw its fourth-quarter income boosted by low oil prices, the company reports.

Bike Lobby Seeks Lower Speed Limits in Minnesota Cities

Minnesota’s bike lobby is hoping to get state legislators to lower speed limits on city streets around the state, arguing it would make cyclists and pedestrians safer. A speed limit of 25 mph is being sought by the state’s bike …

from News – Insurance Journal http://ift.tt/1RW24pV
via IFTTT