Swiss Re started the year in a tough spot, having reported a big loss for 2008 thanks in large part to ill-advised credit default swaps, and without enough capital on hand to maintain its "AA" rating from Standard & Poor's.

With the continued turmoil in the financial marketplace, many insurance carriers are challenged to maintain profitability and identify opportunities for continued growth.

In the wake of the global financial crisis, insurance companies that do not employ enterprise risk management as their standard operating procedure are at a severe competitive disadvantage.

Companies sued for creating damage by contributing to global warming have a major defense available against such charges, according to an attorney at a legal session for policyholders.