Zurich, Switzerland-based insurer ACE Ltd. reported that fourth-quarter net income rose 5 percent, breaking the $1 billion mark in a quarter for the first time.

Zurich, Switzerland-based insurer ACE Ltd. reported that fourth-quarter net income rose 5 percent, breaking the $1 billion mark in a quarter for the first time.

Munich Re reported its fourth-quarter 2010 profit was down 63 percent from the previous year’s fourth quarter, while profit for the year was down 5 percent despite major losses during the fourth quarter.

Saying the company ended 2010 on a strong note, The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. reported net income rose 11 percent from the previous year, benefiting from rate increases and a rise in investment income.

Uncertainty reigned over events in Egypt as the nation’s president, Hosni Mubarak, appeared to seek appeasement with protestors. However, violence flared while the country's economy stood at a practical standstill.

Uncertainty reigned over events in Egypt as the nation’s president, Hosni Mubarak, appeared to seek appeasement with protestors. However, violence flared while the country's economy stood at a practical standstill.

Arthur J. Gallagher reported 2010 fourth-quarter net income more than doubled over 2009 despite the soft insurance market and lingering effects of the economic downturn.

Arthur J. Gallagher reported 2010 fourth-quarter net income more than doubled over 2009 despite the soft insurance market and lingering effects of the economic downturn.