Search Blogs
October 4, 2024
Safeco Insurance and Columbia Insurance Group Announce Personal Lines Transfer Agreement
October 4, 2024
Coastal Insurance Rate Hikes: A Looming Hearing and Industry Impacts
Coastal Homeowners Face Massive Rate Hikes
The N.C. Rate Bureau, representing insurance companies, submitted a proposal earlier this year to raise homeowner insurance premiums by 42% statewide and an astounding 99% in coastal areas around Wilmington. This increase, if approved, would dramatically affect insurance rates for homeowners, particularly in beach communities already vulnerable to extreme weather events. N.C. Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey swiftly rejected the proposal after a public hearing, citing overwhelming opposition from residents and stakeholders. Causey’s decision to block the rate hike has led to an upcoming judicial hearing, which could determine the future of homeowner insurance premiums in North Carolina.The Rationale Behind the Proposed Increase
Insurance companies argue that the proposed increase is necessary due to several factors, including inflation, rising labor and material costs, and the increasing severity of natural disasters, particularly hurricanes. The cost of reinsurance—insurance for insurance companies—has also risen, putting additional financial strain on insurers operating in high-risk areas. North Carolina’s history of devastating hurricanes, such as 2018’s Hurricane Florence, continues to impact the insurance market. Industry representatives point out that claims from these events are still being processed, with the financial burden continuing to grow.Regulatory Hurdles in a Controlled Market
North Carolina operates a regulated insurance market, meaning that companies must obtain approval from state regulators before raising rates. This system is designed to protect consumers while allowing insurers to remain profitable. However, it has also led to challenges for insurers, especially in the face of mounting claims and increasing operational costs. While the regulated market has shielded North Carolina from the insurance crisis seen in other coastal states like Florida and Louisiana, where insurers have pulled out due to rising risks, the industry contends that the current system limits their ability to remain competitive and financially solvent.The Impending Hearing: What’s at Stake?
As the October 7 hearing approaches, both the state and the insurance industry are preparing for what could be a lengthy and costly legal battle. Insurance Commissioner Causey has expressed hope for a negotiated settlement, which has been the outcome in many previous rate disputes. However, this time, negotiations have stalled, and both sides are heading to court. State law mandates that a ruling be issued within 45 days after the hearing. If the court sides with the insurance commissioner, the rate hike could be blocked or reduced. However, the insurance industry has the option to appeal, potentially extending the dispute and delaying any final decisions.Future Implications for Coastal Insurance
Regardless of the outcome of the hearing, the financial challenges facing coastal homeowners and insurance providers are unlikely to disappear. As natural disasters become more frequent and severe, insurance companies will continue to seek rate increases to cover their growing liabilities. For insurance agents and brokers working with coastal clients, it’s essential to stay informed about the evolving regulatory environment and the potential impact on premiums. As the market adjusts to the realities of climate change and rising costs, agents will play a crucial role in helping homeowners navigate these changes and secure the coverage they need. The October 7 hearing represents a critical moment for the future of coastal insurance in North Carolina, but it’s only one chapter in an ongoing story of rising risks and evolving market dynamics.October 3, 2024
Dockworkers’ Strike: What It Means
Supply Chain Disruptions and Coverage Implications
The strike affects major ports from Texas to Maine, which are critical entry points for construction materials, heavy machinery, food, and chemicals. This could lead to material shortages, price hikes, and delivery delays—factors that could trigger claims under business interruption and contingent business interruption (CBI) policies. For industries reliant on just-in-time inventory, these delays could disrupt operations, leading to losses that businesses may seek to recover through their insurance policies. As ships back up and distribution to warehouses slows, contractors are already predicting that delays could extend into 2025 if the strike persists for more than a week. This timeline could worsen if insurers are inundated with claims from affected industries.Rising Costs and Inflationary Pressures
Bill Flemming, senior VP at Cumming Group, and Ken Simonson, chief economist for the Associated General Contractors of America, warn that prolonged strikes could exacerbate shortages in structural steel and equipment, driving up costs. This potential inflation in construction and manufacturing sectors may translate to increased premiums for insured businesses, as insurers reassess the risks associated with supply chain volatility. In addition, price hikes for materials could lead to higher payouts for insurers covering projects that are already underway, as the cost of replacing or sourcing delayed materials escalates.Contingent Business Interruption: A Crucial Safety Net
CBI coverage could become a key factor in mitigating losses for affected companies. CBI protects businesses from losses resulting from disruptions in their supply chain, particularly when suppliers are unable to deliver due to unforeseen events. For companies that depend on materials moving through the impacted ports, this coverage could help cover lost profits or extra expenses incurred due to delays. However, insurers will need to closely examine the scope of CBI policies to determine how well they apply in this situation. Since the strike stems from a labor dispute, some policies may exclude coverage if labor actions are not explicitly covered under the insured's CBI plan. Businesses and their insurance agents should review the fine print of policies to understand potential gaps.Potential Long-Term Impacts
If the strike extends beyond a few weeks, recovery could stretch well into 2025, according to supply chain experts. Such a scenario may also lead to insurers reconsidering risk assessments for companies that heavily rely on global supply chains. Underwriters may adjust premiums or recommend new risk management strategies to account for the ongoing threat of labor strikes and supply chain disruptions. In the event of prolonged labor disputes or recurring strikes, the insurance industry may see an uptick in demand for specialized strike insurance or broader business interruption policies to protect businesses from future disruptions. Companies that fail to adequately plan for these risks may face heightened financial vulnerability.Preparing for the Future
As industries await resolution, businesses should proactively assess their current insurance coverage and potential exposures. Reviewing business interruption policies, exploring extensions for CBI coverage, and working with insurers to adjust limits or add endorsements could help companies better manage the financial fallout from prolonged supply chain issues. For insurers, this strike serves as a reminder to reevaluate policy offerings and claims protocols related to labor disputes and supply chain risks. Staying ahead of these challenges will be crucial as the industry navigates the evolving landscape of global trade and transportation.October 3, 2024
vQuip Launches AdventureShield: Transforming Liability and Safety for Adventure Rentals
vQuip, a premier provider of specialty insurance programs and risk management solutions for complex, bespoke experience markets is proud to announce the launch of AdventureShield, an innovative, first-of-its-kind risk management solution designed specifically for the high-risk adventure rental sector. AdventureShield offers a comprehensive approach to managing liability for outfitters and ensuring safety for adventure-seekers, transforming the way the recreational rental industry navigates risk.
AdventureShield revolutionizes how outfitters handle complex risks in the adventure and recreational rental space. Outfitted with advanced technology and real-time data analytics, AdventureShield enables businesses to proactively mitigate liability and streamline safety protocols. This cutting-edge platform captures crucial operational data, building a robust defense against negligence claims while offering renters low-limit, trip-specific insurance.
“We've dedicated significant effort to developing AdventureShield, and we're thrilled to bring this innovative solution to outfitters who have long struggled with coverage gaps and risk management shortfalls in the adventure rental market,” said Cam Serigne, Founder and CEO of vQuip. “The brilliance of AdventureShield is its ability to manage risk on a trip-by-trip basis, using cutting-edge risk identification and safety technology that far surpasses traditional practices. By shifting the burden of risks, such as improper use and driver error, away from the outfitter, we're not only lowering costs but also delivering greater financial security to the industry.”
AdventureShield is designed to provide effective relief to outfitters to many of the pain points in the risk management process, particularly those related to risk identification, assessment and financing. By utilizing new premium pools that allow renters to purchase insurance directly on each trip, much of the risk is transferred from the outfitter for that trip. This innovation not only expands the insurance market by providing insurance on a trip-by-trip basis, but also distributes the financial risk more equitably between the outfitter and the renter.
A cornerstone of AdventureShield's effectiveness is its ability to collect the requisite data to protect the business owner against negligence claims. This data is collected in a dynamic tool for risk control that arms outfitters with empirical evidence to assert robust defenses against claims, which may otherwise lead to unjustified liabilities. AdventureShield is available to vQuip’s general liability policyholders and is bundled with the coverage.
ABOUT vQUIP
vQuip is a specialty insurance program architect and risk management pioneer, combining best-in-class loss control technology with innovative program solutions tailored to the unique requirements of complex bespoke experience markets. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., vQuip partners with innovative MGAs, fronting partners, reinsurers, and distribution partners to launch solutions that serve the needs of capacity-constrained insurance markets. vQuip's clients use its technology and insurance programs to effectively manage and transfer risk, gaining access to comprehensive and competitive commercial insurance solutions. For more information, visit www.vquip.com
October 3, 2024
Exemplar Accelerates Growth With New P&C Insurance Practice
A Team of Experts
Christine is supported by the skilled Delray Beach team, including Kathleen Brogan, who brings specialized knowledge of yacht and marine insurance. Kathleen’s experience strengthens Exemplar’s ability to deliver customized coverage for high-net-worth clients. Together, Christine, Kathleen, and the team bring a wealth of combined experience to meet the needs of both personal and commercial clients. “I’m excited to be part of Exemplar and bring Property & Casualty insurance to the forefront,” said Christine Milone. “Our focus is on delivering solutions that solve real-world challenges for our clients.”Strategic Expansion of Exemplar’s Services
Under Christine’s leadership, Exemplar’s new Property & Casualty service line expands the firm’s reach into both personal and commercial insurance. By protecting clients against the risks that matter most, Christine and her team will drive growth in this area and reinforce Exemplar’s position as a trusted partner for forward-thinking businesses and individuals.Comprehensive Services That Put Clients First
The launch of the Property & Casualty division highlights Exemplar’s commitment to offering integrated services across insurance, tax, law, capital, and wealth management. Exemplar provides straightforward, value-driven solutions without the burden of hourly billing. Christine’s leadership in P&C strengthens this approach, empowering clients to protect and grow their businesses and assets.Expert Coverage Solutions
In today’s ever-changing risk landscape, having the right Property & Casualty coverage is essential for protecting your personal and business assets. Christine Milone and the team at Exemplar are committed to providing thoughtful, comprehensive solutions that address your challenges. To learn more about how our integrated approach to P&C can help safeguard what matters most, let’s work together to ensure your future is secure.October 2, 2024
EPIC Announces Acquisition of TDC Life, Expanding Life and Executive Benefits Platform
October 2, 2024
US P&C Insurance Industry Set for Strong Profit Growth in 2024
Premium Growth and Investment Income Drive Profitability
Premium growth remained robust in the first half of 2024, rising by approximately 10%, largely driven by personal lines. This growth, coupled with higher reinvestment yields that surpassed portfolio yields, created a tailwind for the industry’s profitability. Swiss Re now forecasts the industry's return on equity (ROE) to reach 9.5% in 2024 and 10% in 2025, up from 3.4% in 2023. Net investment income for the first half of the year increased by nearly 30%, highlighting the continued benefit of higher interest rates.Challenges Remain: Catastrophe Losses and Rising Competition
While the outlook is positive, the P&C industry still faces challenges, particularly from natural catastrophes. Severe convective storms and homeowners' insurance claims have added over 7 ppts to the first-half loss ratio, with further potential risk from the ongoing hurricane season. Despite this, personal lines showed resilience, with an overall 14 ppt reduction in loss ratio year-over-year. Rising competition is also likely to affect profitability in the coming months, especially as personal auto insurers are now filing for rate decreases. Swiss Re has revised its premium growth forecast to 9.5% for 2024 and a lower 4% for 2025 due to these pressures.Outlook Remains Favorable for 2024
Despite the risks, the overall outlook for the US P&C industry remains favorable, with strong premium growth and improving underwriting results driving profitability. With ROE expected to remain near industry cost-of-capital levels and investment yields continuing to rise, 2024 is set to be a profitable year for insurers. The industry will continue to monitor challenges from storm activity and rising competition, but the strong underwriting improvements and favorable economic conditions suggest smoother sailing ahead for the P&C sector.October 2, 2024
Florida’s Insurance Crisis: Could Other States Shoulder the Burden?
National Catastrophic Insurance Fund Proposed
Florida Representative Jared Moskowitz has introduced a bill proposing the creation of a National Catastrophic Insurance Fund, aimed at distributing the financial burden of major storm-related insurance claims. Moskowitz, a Democrat, argues that such a fund could help mitigate the skyrocketing costs of home insurance in states like Florida, which are frequently hit by hurricanes and other natural disasters. "Even if my bill doesn't move forward, the federal government needs to realize we have to amortize the risk," Moskowitz said. "This burden can’t fall solely on states like Florida. The risk needs to be spread around."How the Fund Would Work
The proposal includes the introduction of federal post-event bonds, which would help insurance companies cover homeowner claims when disasters strike. These bonds would supplement private reinsurance and alleviate the pressure on insurers, thereby reducing the premiums that consumers pay. The program also includes a cap on reinsurance requirements, a measure that would further relieve insurance companies of excessive risk. Moskowitz claims this would prevent insurance premiums from escalating as rapidly as they have in recent years. In Florida, homeowners paid an average of $10,996 in 2023, a dramatic increase over the national average of $2,377.Potential Impact
Moskowitz’s proposed legislation, the Natural Disaster Reinsurance Program Act (HR 3525), has yet to gain traction in Congress, but its potential impact is significant. According to an analysis by the South Florida Regional Planning Council, this bill could reduce premium growth in Florida by 25% and decrease annual growth across the U.S. by 12%. However, there are questions surrounding the repayment of these federal bonds. The most likely scenario would see the costs spread across taxpayers, meaning residents in states less prone to natural disasters could indirectly subsidize high-risk areas like Florida.Industry Reaction and Next Steps
While Moskowitz’s bill faces an uncertain future, it has sparked debate within the insurance industry about the broader implications of distributing catastrophic risk. For insurers, this could provide much-needed stability in regions increasingly affected by climate change, but it may also bring new regulatory challenges. Insurance professionals should keep a close eye on the progression of this bill and its potential effects on reinsurance costs, premium rates, and the industry’s approach to managing risk in high-disaster zones. With natural disasters becoming more frequent and severe, the industry's need for innovative solutions like the National Catastrophic Insurance Fund is becoming increasingly clear. Whether Congress will act on this or propose alternative measures remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the insurance landscape is poised for change.October 1, 2024
Gulf Coast on Watch for a New Possible Storm Development Later This Week
System Shows Potential for Growth
The NHC’s latest advisory indicates that while this large and disorganized area of low pressure is producing thunderstorms over the western and southwestern Caribbean, conditions could become more favorable for development. Currently, the system is moving slowly west-northwestward, and by late this week or over the weekend, a tropical depression could form in the southern Gulf of Mexico or northwestern Caribbean Sea.Development Timetable Shifts
Earlier forecasts suggested a tropical depression could form by midweek. However, the NHC has now pushed back the timeline, citing environmental conditions that may slow development. The chance of formation remains low in the next 48 hours (10%), but that probability increases to 40% over the next seven days.Floridians Still Reeling from Hurricane Helene
This disturbance comes at a time when many Floridians are still recovering from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. The storm caused severe flooding, widespread power outages, and left behind a path of destruction in the Big Bend region, with winds exceeding 140 mph.Stay Prepared and Informed
With hurricane season still in full swing, residents along the Gulf Coast, particularly in Florida, are urged to stay informed and prepared as the situation evolves. While the exact path and intensity of the new disturbance remain uncertain, the NHC advises continued monitoring as the system moves closer to the Gulf of Mexico.October 1, 2024
Travelers Publishes 2024 Injury Impact Report
The Travelers Companies, Inc., the largest workers' compensation insurer in the United States, today released its 2024 Injury Impact Report. The report examined more than 1.2 million workers' compensation claims from 2017 to 2021. The findings revealed that the most common workplace accidents account for the majority of claim costs.
- Overexertion (29% of claims analyzed).
- Slips, trips and falls (23%).
- Being struck by an object (12%).
- Motor vehicle accidents (5%).
- Caught-in or caught-between hazards (5%).
- Slips, trips and falls.
- Overexertion.
- Being struck by an object.
- Motor vehicle accidents.
- Caught-in or caught-between hazards.
New Employees Are Most Vulnerable
Similar to previous years, the 2024 report found that employees in their first year on the job continue to be the most vulnerable to workplace injuries, accounting for 35% of all workers compensation claims. This year’s analysis also uncovered increases in missed workdays due to injuries:- On average, injured employees missed 72 workdays, up one day from last year’s report.
- The construction industry continued to have the highest average number of lost workdays per injury (103 workdays, up from 99), followed by transportation (83 workdays, up from 77).
- Injured small-business employees missed an average of 82 workdays, up from 79.