It’s a week filled with tip-offs and rumours – not all of which turn out to be true

Wednesday

There’s talk that Suncorp boss Patrick Snowball could soon be making a return to the UK, but I’m later told that, to excuse the pun, there’s not a “snowball’s chance in hell” of his return anytime soon.

Thursday

I host the Insurance Times Underwriters’ Clinic in London. It goes very well, with some healthy debate over whether technology has replaced the art of underwriting.

Friday

I get an interesting little tip today that former RSA chief Andy Haste could be in line for the Direct Line chairman’s role.

Monday

Drinks with NIG after work. Underwriting director Martin Hall talks about being a Bradford City football fan. Poor bloke.

Tuesday

I like this story about the News of the World hacker selling data to insurers. The story leads our morning email alert. Final bids for Groupama are in today. My money’s on private equity to get hold of the company.

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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