Industry losses from Sandy would need to reach $50 billion in order to materially erode reinsurers capital base, according to an analysis by Standard & Poors.

After taking its time to consider the many variables it said would prevent a quick assessment, catastrophe-modeler Risk Management Solutions has finally released its estimate of insured losses due to Superstorm Sandy: between $20 billion and $25 billion.

New hot spots are developing all the time in regions around the world. In parts of Asia, North Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and the United States, criminal gangs, political turmoil and other threats are creating uncertain and hostile environments. Fast-changing conditions mean that regions can shift unexpectedly from...

Everyones familiar with the concept of collecting stamps, coins, comic books and even Star Wars action figuresbut how about collecting surgeons tools from the Civil War era or locks of celebrities hair?