OLDWICK, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Even in the United States, where scientific evidence of climate change is viewed with some cynicism, a growing number of insurance companies are developing insurance and risk-management products for the low-carbon economy, according to a story in the October 30 issue of BestWeek.

Earlier this year, St. Paul Travelers Companies introduced a new program to offer a 10% discount to drivers of hybrid-electric vehicles. In May, American International Group Inc. announced it was developing a number of products, including coverages for the carbon-trading market, as part of a corporate effort to confront climate change.

Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company, a subsidiary of German insurer Allianz S.E., is the latest U.S. insurer to enter this arena. Recently, it introduced a series of coverages for buildings that are green-certified, as well as for those with owners who would like to capture green benefits.

Also, BestWeek takes a look at the upcoming races for the U.S. House of Representatives.

Also featured in BestWeek is Best’s Insurance Composite Index, which finished the week of October 26, 2006, at 1,197.52, up 6.64% from a year ago. The composite index reflects the performance of 133 insurance stocks. The week’s top performers were Universal American Financial Corp.; White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd.; Scottish Re Group Ltd.; SeaBright Insurance Holdings Inc.; and Phoenix Cos. The week’s bottom performers were Citizens Financial Corp.; Sierra Health Services Inc.; PMA Capital Corp.; Montpelier Re Holdings Ltd.; and National Security Group Inc.

BestWeek is published by A.M. Best Co. for insurance professionals.

To subscribe to BestWeek, please call A.M. Best’s customer service department at (908) 439-2200, ext. 5742, or e-mail your request to customer_service@ambest.com.

A.M. Best Co., established in 1899, is the world’s oldest and most authoritative insurance rating and information source. For more information, visit A.M. Best’s Web site at www.ambest.com.

A.M. Best Co.
Caroline Saucer, 908-439-2200, ext. 5774
caroline.saucer@ambest.com

_______________________________________________________________ 

© Business Wire 2006