E-Trading

The full picture.

The market is divided as to whether it is in the client's best interests to buy D&O insurance separately or as part of a package of professional liability covers. Simon Threadgold says Hiscox opts for the latter but what about the rest of the sector

Small change?

E-business, new market players and outsourcing initiatives look set to transform the face of the premium finance sector for good. But some things never change and maintaining broker loyalty remains at the core of a provider's success.

The human touch.

Despite the high profile of the Internet, insurers are reporting a surprising reluctance from their customers to using the Net in their claims communications. Steve Banner says the importance of human interaction at the claims stage must not be

Avoid the virus trap.

Q I am a small broker who has just gone on the Internet and started using e-mail. What can I do to stop getting hit by a virus?

Set out your stall.

High lapse ratios and the dominance of agents make travel insurance a tricky sector, but if brokers market their products strategically, the rewards are worth the extra effort, says Carole Walton.

Shake-up shakedown.[QQ]

A landmark ruling on a recent credit hire case has caused a shake-up of the motor legal expenses market that could mean closure for some providers. David Fanning looks at how brokers are reacting to the changes.

A star in cyberspace.

Leslie Smith, chairman and MD of Medibroker, talks to Tim Collison about the run-away success that his company has experienced as the first of a new generation of cyberbrokers.

An elf in the garden

Elf at home, the independent gas supplier to the new homes market, has launched the Household insuran...

Too hot to handle?

Offering commercial clients risk management advice and solutions is becoming increasingly important. But how can small and medium-sized brokers with limited resources get involved? David Fanning investigates.

Survival of the fittest.

An insured with sound contingency plans will have a better chance of riding out the storm, should disaster strike. Formulating such a plan needs careful consideration, and maybe even outside help, says Martin Savage.