What’s new: In brief (June 14, 2004)

The Canadian Independent Adjusters Association (CIAA) has revised its program for the 2004 annual convention to be held in Whistler, BC, September 9-12. Friday now includes an entire day of educational sessions, revolving around the issues of legislative change and self-regulation. The annual golf tournament, trade show, agm and president’s dinner will also be featured. More information can be found at www.ciaa-adjusters.ca.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports most new vehicles are now performing to the “good” standard in frontal offset crash tests. The tests involve a 40 mph crash into a deformable barrier a “good” rating means that a seat-belted driver would like walk away unharmed from such a collision. In recent tests, the Volvo S40, BMW 5 series and Nissan Titan each earned “best pick” status, while the Ford Escape raised its standard from marginal to acceptable.

The Canadian Coalition for Good Governance, which includes 33 leading institutional investors, says many Canadian companies are making great strides on the governance front. In particular the role of corporate director has changed to one of “life long achievement award” to “an important, disciplined and arduous profession”, says coalition chair Michael Wilson, chair of USB Asset Management. The CCGG’s guidelines of good governance can be found at www.ccgg.ca.