HBOS: Alternative insurance

In June of this year, Peter Wood, the founder of esure and Direct Line, announced his intention to launch another insurance start-up with the financial banking of HBOS [HBOS.L], which already owns esure. The new company is hoping to dig out a niche through offering more choice and innovation, but it will be facing competition from existing specialist insurers, including RBS' [RBOS.L] Privilege.

Published By Datamonitor

A crushing blow to uninsured drivers

The Greenaway report, a UK government-commissioned study into the problem of uninsured driving, signals the start of a crackdown on motorists that drive without insurance. This report should provide the catalyst for strengthening legislation and Datamonitor's James Greenwell argues that it will finally bring UK compliance levels in line with the rest of Europe...

Published By Datamonitor

Admiral: calm waters now but storms ahead

Launching the biggest flotation on the London market this year, and one of only eight IPOs so far on the main exchange, Admiral has set its stall out to go public. While rapid growth and financial success has been Admiral's trademark, serious questions remain as to whether the timing and pricing of the offer will attract sufficient interest.

Published By Datamonitor

Aviva/RAC: a motoring melange

Aviva [AV.L], one of the leading insurers in the UK market, has announced that it is to buy RAC, the UK motoring services business. Although the cost of the acquisition may seem high at GBP1 billion, Aviva is inheriting a number of very powerful motor-related brands and businesses, providing significant cross-selling opportunities for the company.

Published By Datamonitor

Norwich Union/RAC: in-house insurance

The RAC acquisition by Norwich Union will boost its insurance book and provide the company with future growth potential, while reducing the impact of insurance cycle volatility on its results. It should also serve to reduce the gap between Norwich Union and the leading private motor insurer, RBS Insurance.

Published By Datamonitor

AA / Shoosmiths: a personal injury push

The AA's partnership with Shoosmiths will allow it to compete with RAC's blossoming legal services division and capitalize on new opportunities in the sector. The services group's timing is appropriate, as regulatory changes in the law profession are likely to see a raft of familiar retail brands offering legal services. Like RAC, the AA is well placed at the vanguard of this shift.

Published By Datamonitor

UK motor insurance distribution: face to face contact with brokers in decline

Published By Datamonitor

UK motor insurance: younger consumers go for direct option

Published By Datamonitor

UK motor insurance: personal injury drives up costs

Published By Datamonitor

UK motor insurance: premiums peaked in 2003

Published By Datamonitor