Farmers Insurance announces a data breach impacting more than 1 million customers.

Farmers Insurance has revealed that a data breach has affected the personal information of over 1 million customers. The company made this announcement following filings with state regulators and a notice on its website. This incident was disclosed late last week. Farmers Insurance, which serves about 10 million households and manages 19 million insurance policies … Read more

US Prepares for ‘Minor’ Cyberattacks from Iran Following Airstrikes

US officials are alerting businesses to prepare for possible cyberattacks from Iran following recent American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Experts believe that while the response from hackers might be limited, it is still a serious concern. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a bulletin stating that Iranian hackers often target American technology. Although … Read more

Personnel Updates: Starkweather & Shepley Announces Promotions and Officer Advancements

Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc., based in East Providence, Rhode Island, recently announced a series of promotions within its leadership team. This move reflects the company’s commitment to growth and excellence in the insurance industry. Andrew J. Fotopulos has been promoted to chairman and chief executive officer, a role he has held with distinction. … Read more

Top MGA Launches on Expert Insured

NEC Specialty Inc. (NECS), a prominent managing general agency on the East Coast, has officially launched its operations on the Expert Insured platform. This exciting development comes after months of careful consideration by the NECS team, who sought a solution to enhance their workflow and overall efficiency. The partnership with Expert Insured aims to modernize … Read more

Analyzing the trends influencing self-funded healthcare plans.

In a recent episode of Insurance Business TV, Paul Lucas spoke with Tara Krauss, the President of Accident and Health at QBE North America, about the company’s newly released 2025 Accident and Health Market Report. This report provides valuable insights into the current trends affecting self-funded healthcare plans, focusing on medical stop-loss claims, the growth … Read more

Genuine branding in the insurance industry begins when the cameras are turned off.

In a recent discussion, Heath W. Shearon, host of the Insurance Town Podcast, shared his thoughts on the importance of authentic branding in the insurance industry. Speaking on August 25, 2025, Shearon emphasized that many insurance professionals fall into the trap of chasing trends instead of focusing on building genuine trust with clients. He believes … Read more

USLI is suing Travelers for $900,000 in defense costs.

A significant legal battle is unfolding in Los Angeles over a car accident case that has sparked a $900,000 dispute between two insurance companies. The case, now in federal court, has caught the attention of insurance professionals nationwide. On August 20, 2025, United States Liability Insurance Company (USLI) initiated a lawsuit against The Travelers Companies … Read more

Business Developments: Howden Acquires Chilean Retail Brokerage; United Risk Acquires Australian Facultative Reinsurance MGA, Pinnacle Underwriting.

Howden, a well-known insurance intermediary based in London, has made a significant move by acquiring Ureta & Fernandez Corredores de Seguros Limitada, commonly known as U&F. This independent retail insurance broker is located in Santiago, Chile. The announcement was made recently, but the financial details of the deal have not been disclosed. With this acquisition, … Read more

China Issues Warning of Additional Flooding as Severe Storms Strike the World’s Second-Largest Economy

Central and southern China are bracing for more flash floods as the East Asia monsoon season intensifies. Heavy rains are expected to disrupt daily life in the country, which is the second-largest economy in the world. On Thursday, authorities issued red alerts for the first time this year. These alerts cover several provinces, including Anhui, … Read more