NIBA (National Insurance Brokers Association) released its bi-annual premium

rate survey of insurance brokers for the June 09 renewal period. The survey has

indicated that the pace that commercial premium rates are rising is accelerating –

signs of a hardening market. 72% of brokers surveyed said rates were rising in

June renewals, 24% said there had been no change and 4% believed rates fell.

Personal lines rates have been moving upward for 12 months with all surveyed

brokers noting premium rate increases. The trends bode well for all P&C insurers

but must be seen relative to falling interest rates and rising claims frequency.