According to Equitas' financial summary, asbestos claims are continuing to be the “main threat” to its financial stability.
The company has paid out claims totalling £353m in the six months ending 30 September 2004, compared with £357m in the first half last year.
The reinsurers share of paid claims amounted to £64m compared with £112m in the first half of last year.
Investment returns were reported as £38m, down from £184m last year. The company said with less money to invest it has been unable gain had been difficult.
Asbestos claims are still Equitas' highest cost, but company chairman Hugh Stevenson said he was unable to determine whether asbestos reserves would need to be increased next year.
