Distribution

By asking the right questions, and offering the time to understand and explain coverages to consumers, independent agents are creating value to consumers, says Bill Wilson, CPCU and associate VP of education and research for Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America. In the second part of this exclusive interview, Wilson discusses Google Compare, the differences in policies, and how insurers can differentiate themselves in a crowded field.

Clements Worldwide, provider of international car, property, term life, health, specialty and high-risk coverages for expatriates and international organizations, has deployed a direct-to-consumer portal using ISCS’ SurePower Innovation. The insurer completed the implementation of the policy, billing, claims and underwriting components of SurePower Innovation last year.

As direct sales, online comparative raters and insurance aggregators gain visibility in the U.S. market, independent agents continue to offer value to both consumers and insurers, says Bill Wilson, CPCU and associate VP of education and research for Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America. In the first part of this exclusive interview, Wilson discusses trends in insurance distribution, the differences in claims experiences and the fact that not all policies are created equally.

Answering these questions can help carriers determine their paths given changing customer needs and a more competitive landscape, according to “Capturing the insurance customer of tomorrow,” a white paper from Accenture.

ADP is introducing an online service known as a private exchange that will let workers shop for insurance coverage among multiple health plans, much the same way consumers can select policies on a government-run exchange under Obamacare.

Latest version of insurers' EACCESS portal features policyholder capabilities in addition to agents.

Insurance broking and risk management firm Marsh has agreed to acquire Dovetail Insurance, provider of insurance technology services for the U.S. small-commercial market. Terms were not disclosed.

States that attempted to build their own health insurance exchange, but ended up switching to the federal version, should reimburse the government for grants to build the tech, three senators say,

United Frontier now will offer agencies access to commercial business owners’ policy, direct bill commission statement, homeowners and dwelling fire download services.

Zurich had not made a final decision and was still discussing options with its adviser Morgan Stanley, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the information is private.