Regulation
FCA hammers GAP insurance as it issues general warning on high commission levels
The Financial Conduct Authority has written to insurers, calling on them to take action, as it released the latest set of fair value data and again brought the spotlight onto the issue of high commission levels.
Insurance sector facing FCA ‘big bombshell’ on commission model – Michael Sicsic
Insurance is facing a ‘big, big bombshell’ on commissions, as the shockwaves reverberate from the Financial Conduct Authority’s property buildings’ investigation, according to regulatory consultant Michael Sicsic.
Barry Fehler - 60 years on the broking frontline
SEIB founder Barry Fehler reflects on his six decades in broking, covering everything from regulation to consolidation, as well as his support for the Institute of Insurance Brokers and the decline in market personalities. David Worsfold was there to…
Broking Success: Celebrating 50 years of independence
Having celebrated its 50th anniversary as an independent broker, R A Cowen & Partners, which is part of Cowens Group, has no plans to sell up any time soon. CEO Paul Chaplin sets out the philosophy behind the business and shares his route into broking.
News analysis: How to boost organic customer acquisition through lead generation
From specialist commercial players to mass market personal lines, lead generation has been part of the broker sales armoury for years. But with a greater focus on digital channels and data, Sian Barton explores how the practice is evolving.
Mulsanne blames poor performing schemes and inflation for latest solvency issues
Mulsanne Insurance Company has admitted speaking to its regulator the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission about solvency capital requirement issues for the second time in four years, Insurance Age can reveal.
Direct Line customers in line for £30m refund as insurer reviews past pricing in regulatory first
Direct Line has agreed to a voluntary review of previous home and motor insurance pricing having charged some customers more for their renewal than they would have done if they were a new customer, the Financial Conduct Authority has confirmed.
Motor broker Verex Insurance Services enters into administration
Car Care Plan has bought the assets of both Verex Insurance Services and its appointed representative Verex Assistance.
FCA authorisation service improvements continue
The Financial Conduct Authority has improved its authorisations performance in four out of five categories affecting brokers, with none of these service levels now in the red.
Opinion: From AI to ChatGPT - adapting cover to match the ever-evolving cyber risks
The technology and telecommunications sector is far from immune to cyber attacks, says Mark Armstrong, class manager technology at CNA Hardy, as he explains how the constantly evolving world of technology is attracting the attention of cyber hackers.
Biba adds Sparkes and Chapman to board
The British Insurance Brokers’ Association has unveiled a pair of appointments to its main board and broadened access to it.
‘A major breakthrough’ – ChatGPT bots to revolutionise broker customer service
Ignite Insurance Systems has launched a super-advanced artificial intelligence bot to answer insurance customer queries. Technology enthusiasts believe this is the start of an AI-powered chatbot revolution in dealing with customer interactions. But this…
Drone MGA Moonrock to target brokers after getting FCA authorisation
Drone insurance specialist managing general agent Moonrock is to up its efforts to court the broker market after receiving full authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority today, Insurance Age can reveal.
FSCS broker pot compensation costs drop to £2m
The Financial Services Compensation Scheme paid out £2m in general insurance distribution compensation costs in the year ended 31 March 2023 – a £5m drop on the previous 12 months.
FCA names MCE administrators
The Financial Conduct Authority has confirmed that Mark Holborow, Vincent Green and Steven Edwards of Crowe UK are the joint administrators of MCE Insurance, as appointed by the company’s directors.
Blog: PIB’s Brendan McManus on the future of insurance broking M&A
Fragmentation, low market maturity, employee benefit opportunities and lower pricing make Europe ripe for broking consolidation, according to PIB Group CEO Brendan McManus.
Brokers still not Consumer Duty ready despite survey boost – compliance experts
Compliance experts have issued warnings to brokers still not ready for the fast-approaching Consumer Duty deadline.
Ex-Swinton duo Normand and Beaven join Academy as it receives Blixt PE injection
Academy Insurance Services has been given external investment from private equity house Blixt Group with its sights set on growth through further acquisition.
Editor's letter: Consumer Duty – maybe not so 'Mission Impossible' after all?
I am really looking forward to the film 'Mission Impossible Seven', or to give it it’s exact title: ‘Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One’.
Graeme Trudgill on taking up the reins at Biba
Graeme Trudgill has committed to fighting strongly for brokers and to getting even more access to the Financial Conduct Authority for members as he takes up the role of CEO of the British Insurance Brokers’ Association.
New Biba CEO Trudgill urged to fight for compliance-hit small brokers
The new CEO of the British Insurance Brokers’ Association, Graeme Trudgill, has been urged to fight for smaller brokers, who complain they are being swamped by regulation.
Graeme Trudgill succeeds Steve White as Biba CEO
The British Insurance Brokers’ Association has appointed Graeme Trudgill, its current executive director, as CEO taking over from Steve White.
Zurich UK CEO Bailey takes over as ABI president
Tim Bailey, UK CEO at Zurich, is the new president of the Association of British Insurers.
FCA cracking down on home and motor insurers
The Financial Conduct Authority has warned insurers about the support provided to struggling customers.