Insurance Times rounds up the top five stories making headlines across the market from 16 to 20 February 2026
This week, artificial intelligence (AI) news took top spot in the most read stories as OpenAI approved the first AI application from an insurance provider on ChatGPT.
The move means that, for the first time, an insurance provider can distribute its products and offer quotes directly inside an AI platform.
Meanwhile, the top people moves update this week came from Aviva, with it appointing Kerry Myles as its new branch manager for the south east.
Joining from broker Gallagher, Myles will assume responsibility for Aviva’s newly defined south east region, which includes Kent, Sussex and Surrey areas, Southampton and Thames Valley.
In M&A news, Zurich’s bid for Beazley dominated readership attention as Zurich secured an extension to finalise its proposed acquisition of the insurer.
Under UK takeover code rules, Zurich was required to either announce a firm intention to make an offer for Beazley or state that it would not by 16 February 2026, but that deadline has been extended to 5pm on 4 March 2026.
An Insurance Times eTrading exclusive also hit the top five this week as Aviva confirmed that it is adding to its eTraded product suite this year, including the creation of a new contractors’ combined proposition that will go live on its Fast Trade extranet and across software house partners in May 2026.
Finally, in talent-related news, Bedford-based broker M&DH Insurance Services is expanding its headquarters and creating new career opportunities after securing an investment loan from Allica Bank.
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.
No comments yet