Protection

Waiting for GP reports to be returned to underwriters is apparently the most annoying aspect of writing and advising on protection products, according to IFAs attending recent Progress from Royal Liver roadshows.

Hitachi, Asia's third largest company, is moving further into the UK protection market with a new ASU offering through Webline, the quotes portal has confirmed.

Introduction of new long leaseholder property rights have been unveiled today which allows leaseholders of houses to choose their own buildings insurance rather than use the policy nominated by their landlord.

Professionals, office workers and those in managerial roles are more likely to claim on their income protection cover because of a need for long-term support with psychiatric help, suggests data presented by Norwich Union Healthcare.

The Liberal Democrats have launched a ten-point action plan to tackle household and consumer debt which, among other ideas, calls on the FSA to investigate mortgage payment protection insurance.

Technology-based intermediaries offering life insurance suggest the Asian tsunami disaster on Boxing Day may have prompted fresh interest in protection cover from UK consumers.

The FSA has sent letters to executives at key financial services trade bodies to remind firms the acceptance of inducements by intermediaries could be seen as a conflict of interest for consumers.

employee benefits

Scottish Equitable Protect has confirmed it is moving into the guaranteed CI critical illness market in two weeks time.

Standard Life has unveiled a major programme to target 28-38 year-olds for protection business, which offers IFAs access to online business submission tools, increased Lautro rates, new underwriting and a repricing of consumer rates.