D&O policy must pay for defence costs, appeal court rules

A federal appeals court has upheld the Houston court ruling that Lloyd's must pay the defence costs of alleged swindler Allen Stanford's his former chief investment officer Laura Holt, and former accounting executives Gilbert Lopez and Mark Kuhrt, Reuters reports.

The appeals court on Monday upheld US District Judge David Hittner’s ruling but also sent the case back to the district court for additional arguments on the coverage question. Lloyd's must pay in the meantime.

"The underwriters are enjoined from refusing to advance defence costs as provided for in the D&O policy unless and until a court 'determines in fact' by clear and convincing evidence ..." that money laundering occurred, the ruling said.

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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