E&S/Specialty

An industry official will testify before Congress Wednesday that a steep hike in the damage limits from an offshore drilling accident could drive offshore drillers out of U.S. waters.

Cooper Gay Group and Swett & Crawford confirmed they are in "advanced deal discussions" on a merger that would create the world's largest independent global wholesale and reinsurance broker.

Expanding potential liability for employers and their employment practices insurers, the U.S. Supreme Court gave the green light to litigation involving the use of tests that have a disparate impact on a protected class.

Executives of W.R. Berkley said they would not hesitate to write coverage again for the operator of the oil rig that exploded in the Gulf last month, adding that increased prices and insurance requirements for operators could provide opportunities.

As the insurance industry embraces the use of social media as a marketing tool, it must consider risks that are unique to the insurance industry.

Thomas Kunkel, of Travelers Companies, Inc., was named chairman of the Surety & Fidelity Association of America.