An appellate court in New York has cleared the way for a trial on allegations that Maurice Hank Greenberg and Howard Smith, respectively the former CEO and CFO of American International Group, committed fraud in connection with two reinsurance transactions.

Personal-lines insurance rates were up 1 percent in April compared to the same month a year ago, according to MarketScouts latest Market Barometer.

Mike Stapleton, senior vice president, claims administration at CNA, responded to some questions about the technology factors that affect the way CNA and its claims unit operate and how technology is affecting the performanceand the demandsof adjusters.

Another short-term extension of the National Flood Insurance Program appears likely as Congress wont be able to act on a long-term bill before the current authorization expires May 31.