Although contingent commissions could represent a conflict in the relationship between producers and consumers, that can be managed.

The Association of Insurance and Reinsurance Run-Off Companies has launched an arbitration procedure designed to expedite small and "less-complicated" claims between insurers and reinsurers.

Program administrators and managing general agents (PA/MGA) said they view merger and acquisition moves as the way to accelerate top-line growth and capture market share, according to a recent survey.

The New York State Insurance Department has updated its proposed producer compensation regulation with two changes hailed as a positive development by an independent agent association.

Bank holding company 2009 second-quarter insurance brokerage income fell 6.5 percent to $3.02 billion compared to 2008 second-quarter income of $3.23 billion, according to a consulting firm.

Contingent commissions could represent a conflict for insurance brokers but it can be managed, former New York Insurance Superintendent Eric Dinallo said.

Brown & Brown Inc. reported third-quarter net income of $41 million, up just under 1 percent from 2008 net income of $40.6 million.

A combination of financial strength, consistency of service capabilities on a global scale, as well as expertise in underwriting, loss control, claims and certain business niches is why Chubb was cited as "Best Carrier Overall"