Market Insights

The annual Property Loss Research Bureau/Liability Insurance Research Bureau conference, one of the industry's most substantial and vibrant claim-oriented events, will take place March 21-24, 2010. Preview the show here.

Despite deep divisions within its own ranks and united opposition from Republicans, Democrats appeared to be moving closer and closer at year's end to landmark legislation.

While the recession is putting a strain on the earnings produced by the employee benefits business of independent agents and brokers, there is a consensus among at least three top firms that the segment remains a major generator of revenue.

Big accounts mean better bottom-line profits. Yet as any successful agent or broker knows, if you want to provide comprehensive service, drawing a line in the sand regarding a preferred account size isn't always easy.

The number of start-up insurance agencies is growing and most new agencies are small, growing fast and headed by younger principals. Learn the size more important steps to take within the first 90 days of opening your agency.

AA&B spoke with three wholesalers/program administrators specializing in boat, yacht and marina insurance about what they're seeing in the current market and how retail agents and brokers can "shore up" this specialty business until the seas are calm.