There was growing concern this week over the fate of Istanbul.

Turkey's leading seismologist Ahmet Isikara, has predicted that the entire city could be levelled at any time.

Isikara's prediction came after a major unbroken part of the fault line was discovered under the Marmara sea, just a few miles outside Istanbul.

Initial reports on the earthquake's last week suggest there has not been any significant damage to the numerous multi-national firms that are frequently reinsured through international markets such as Lloyd's.

A number of travel insurers have stopped covering people visiting the city.

One company that is refusing to offer cover is Colombus Direct.

A spokeswoman for the company said: "We have taken advice from a variety of sources including the Foreign Commonwealth Office and our medical assistance people and are no longer covering people who travel to Istanbul."


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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