Last week, Allstate announced their acquisition of Esurance, the online auto insurance provider. The purchase was billed as an effort to expand Allstate’s online market, providing customers with more options and flexibility when purchasing coverage. There is another factor that may have contributed to the acquisition, according to a new report released by comScore, a global source of digital market intelligence. The firm conducted a survey in the U.S. that suggests that the online market is becoming increasingly popular amongst consumers. The survey shows that, of those participating, 20% of…
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State Farm announces closure of over twenty field locations
Last year was notoriously costly for insurers around the world. Natural disasters have taken their toll on many companies, causing some to close their doors and others to reevaluate their plans for continued operation. Given the recent catastrophes already occurring this year, companies are taking steps to save more money. State Farm is one such company, announcing plans for the closure of nearly 24 field offices in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan. The big name insurer is looking to shrink the size of its operations. Offices that it will not be…
Read MoreHow will new health reform laws affect workers comp sector
Members of the Casualty Actuarial Society recently attended a conference concerning the effect the new health reform bill could have on the casualty and property industry. Several concerns over possible effects on the worker compensation system were put to rest, and possible results on lowering medical malpractice suits were discussed. Because worker compensation medical claims are a part of the overall rise in healthcare, many have been concerned about possible changes under the new reform bill. After the statistics were broken down though, there didn’t seem to be much to…
Read MoreHealth insurance exchange debate over agents role
As states begin to take steps to establish their health insurance exchanges, private insurance agents in West Virginia are not quite enthusiastic of the efforts. State legislators are beginning t debate a pending bill that would create a state-run health insurance exchange. The measure could be passed this week, as Republicans who oppose the bill find themselves in the minority. Independent agent lobbyist, Gary Marion, argues that the bill would hamper agent’s ability to compete in the market. Health insurance exchanges act as a means for individuals and small groups…
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