U.S. consumers are turning to digital sources for insurance quotes and other information, but still prefer personal contact with agents when purchasing insurance products, according to an Accenture survey of more than 4,000 U.S. automobile and home insurance customers.

The Travelers Cos. says first-quarter net income increased 11 percent due to higher underwriting margins and lower catastrophe losses.

Underwriters and agents unwilling to act as consultants will become relics left with nothing more than stories of the good old days.

The chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America says the association has not abandoned the fight to protect independent agents role under federal healthcare reform.