Opinion

The Financial Services Authority recently published its proposals for a radical move to principles-based regulation. What will this mean for the industry and what are the pitfalls?

Last month, the COVER Insight research revealed that poor service levels have forced many advisers to turn their backs on Norwich Union. In general, are industry service levels below expectations? What can be done by insurers to ensure that this does...

According to a recent report by the Department of Health, more than 12 million adults and one million children will be obese by 2010. How may this affect the overall price of protection premiums and could it lead to more or fewer people buying life insurance...

Should more providers take a leaf out of Pioneer Friendly's book and publish their declined income protection claims statistics? Would this help rebuild consumer trust?

A judge recently ruled in the favour of a policyholder who had her claim rejected by Friends Provident, even though the Ombudsman had supported the provider's decision. Could this mark a shift in the way claims are dealt with in the future? While this...

A number of radical protection products are expected to hit the market this year, but will they help encourage more people to buy cover? And what else is needed to bridge the protection gap?

A recent survey by financial and business adviser Grant Thornton revealed that more than three-quarters of UK financial services advertisements and promotions are misleading. Are firms doing enough to ensure its financial promotions are clear and easy...

With providers taking a tougher stance on non-disclosure and more intermediaries submitting business electronically, should the industry introduce guidelines regarding when and if a client signature is required?

Scottish Provident is considering adding a guidance note to its application form in the hope it will increase the accuracy of height and weight information supplied by applicants. Will we see more providers follow in Scottish Provident's footsteps and...

The Government hopes its proposed Incapacity Benefit reforms will see around one million long-term sick people back in work within 10 years. Will it work? And how will this latest proposal affect the insurance industry?