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Banking & Financial Services

Nationwide Introduces Video Consultation Feature on VetHelpline for Pet Parents

Nationwide pet insurance members now have access to a new video consultation feature on Nationwide’s VetHelpline®, providing them with face-to-face conversations with veterinary professionals around the clock. This new addition aims to offer a more comprehensive solution to pet owners, as stated by Mariel Devesa, Nationwide Pet’s Head of Growth, Expansion, and Development, who highlighted, "Our new VetHelpline® merges technology with peace of mind for our consumers in one of the most comprehensive solutions in the market today."The VetHelpline® service is exclusive to...

Banking & Financial Services

Nationwide Leaders Drive Critical Discussions on Finance and Economics

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company and a prominent player in the financial services and insurance sector, has been actively engaged in critical discussions centered around finance services and economics. In recent engagements, Nationwide's thought leaders have shared valuable insights on various platforms.Jim Fowler, Nationwide’s Chief Technology Officer, recently participated in a panel discussion on Nasdaq TV where he discussed the impact of generative AI on customer service. Fowler highlighted how Nationwide has strategically invested in AI over the past decade to...

Banking & Financial Services

Nationwide and Annexus Celebrate 10-Year Partnership with NYSE Bell Ringing

Nationwide and Annexus marked a significant milestone in their collaboration by ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on March 7. The event celebrated a decade-long partnership that has brought innovative solutions to the financial services marketplace, benefiting American retirement savers.Mike Morrone, vice president of Nationwide Annuity business development, highlighted the impact of the partnership, stating, "Our partnership with Annexus has enabled us to take our product innovation to the next level." This collaboration allowed Nationwide to enter...

Banking & Financial Services

Pump It Up – Gas Prices Rise Ahead of Daylight Saving Time

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 7, 2024)—Pump prices have maintained a steady march higher, rising eight cents since last week to $3.39. More expensive oil is a likely culprit, as crude accounts for nearly 60% of pump prices. The cost for a barrel of oil is edging closer to $80, about $10 more per barrel than a few months ago."Spring is nearly here, with longer days, better weather, and more opportunities to hit the road," said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. "And we are seeing this reflected in rising gasoline demand. But remember, we see this trend every year."For the...

Banking & Financial Services

The Quiet Killer Stalking Our Roads – Drowsy Driving

A new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has shed light on the dangers of drowsy driving, revealing that the impact of this behavior is greatly underestimated. The research points to sleep loss as a significant factor in drowsy driving crashes, with the upcoming Daylight Saving Time potentially exacerbating the issue.According to the AAA Foundation's study, drowsy driving is responsible for far more traffic fatalities than official government statistics indicate. The study, based on crash investigations and national fatal crash data, estimates that drowsy...

Banking & Financial Services

Gas Prices Creep Ahead of Potential Leap

WASHINGTON, DC (February 29, 2024) – Drivers saw gas prices creep up the final week of February. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.31 on this leap day, 4 cents higher than it was one week ago. The upward trend is likely to continue as travelers start heading out of town for Spring Break."We’re entering Spring Break season, and historically, March and April bring higher gas prices as demand rises," said Aixa Diaz, AAA spokesperson. "With milder temperatures come more road trips, and this time of year tends to be a precursor to the summer driving season."For...

Banking & Financial Services

UFCU earns fourth consecutive 'Best Place for Working Parents' recognition from EMGA

The University Federal Credit Union (UFCU) has announced its fourth consecutive recognition as the "Best Place for Working Parents" by Early Matters Greater Austin (EMGA). The evaluation by EMGA was based on UFCU's adherence to 10 family-oriented policies and initiatives, which include healthcare coverage, paid leave, flexible work arrangements, and childcare support.

Banking & Financial Services

Georgia Senate passes tort reform to lower insurance costs for businesses

The Georgia Senate has confirmed the passage of SB 426, a bill aimed at limiting direct action lawsuits. The announcement comes as the Georgia House is yet to schedule a vote on the same legislation. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones has championed the bill as a significant step in tort reform that will offer much-needed relief to businesses within the state.

Banking & Financial Services

Enabling a New Era in Retirement Saving

Eric Stevenson, President of Nationwide Retirement Solutions, addressed the Senate HELP Committee on Feb. 28, emphasizing the challenges faced by American retirement savers. Stevenson advocated for the adoption of Protected Retirement solutions, stating that they will mark a new era for American retirement saving.Stevenson pointed out the urgency of the situation, stating, "In a year when more Americans will turn 65 than at any point in history," many retirees are facing uncertainties in their financial future. He highlighted a Nationwide Retirement Institute survey which...

Banking & Financial Services

Legal System Abuse Adding to Increasing Auto Insurance Costs, Creating A New Asset Class of Investors Betting on Litigation

The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) has raised concerns about the impact of excessive litigation on rising auto insurance costs. According to a recent issues brief released by Triple-I, the rise in dangerous roads and driving conditions, coupled with economic costs, is being compounded by overzealous billboard attorneys. Sean Kevelighan, CEO of Triple-I, emphasized the need to address legal system abuse, stating, "The price of insurance is the effect, not the cause of risk, and there must be more work done to curb legal system abuse."Plaintiff attorneys are...

Banking & Financial Services

Hotels in Mexico and Las Vegas Receive AAA Four Diamonds

Durango Casino & Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, Planet Hollywood Cancun in Cancun, Quintana Roo, Hotel and Spa Mansion Solis in Morelia, Michoacan, and Manta in Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur have been recognized by AAA as Four Diamond properties. According to AAA, these properties offer upscale amenities, remarkable service, and outstanding dining options.Diamond Inspectors from AAA conduct unannounced, independent, in-person property inspections to ensure quality and consistency in the hospitality industry. AAA's commitment to quality is reflected in the 4 Cs of AAA...

Banking & Financial Services

Adroit and Nationwide Form Partnership to Offer Workers’ Compensation to Mid-Size Employers

Adroit General Agency and Nationwide have announced a new partnership aimed at providing workers’ compensation insurance and services to mid-sized employers operating in high-risk industries. This collaboration comes as Nationwide seeks to expand its presence in the workers’ compensation market by partnering with managing general agencies (MGAs) that specialize in niche segments.Adroit, established in 2021, focuses on offering workers’ compensation solutions to businesses in sectors such as construction, energy, recycling, alternative energy, agriculture, and...

Banking & Financial Services

Out to Sea and Overseas: AAA Travel’s Spring Break Trends

AAA Travel's Senior Vice President, Paula Twidale, stated, "Orlando is the top choice for Spring Break travelers, while Fort Lauderdale and Miami are the two most popular domestic cruise ports." She emphasized that many travelers are seeking warm weather, pools, beaches, and outdoor adventures during this time of year, making Florida an ideal destination. Additionally, Twidale noted the significant increase in cruise bookings for March and April, with a 28% overall increase and a 60% increase for cruises departing from South Florida.According to AAA Travel data,...

Banking & Financial Services

Allstate Increases Quarterly Dividends by 3.4%

The Allstate Corporation has recently announced an increase in its quarterly dividends, as reported on February 23, 2024. The board of directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.92 per share on February 22, 2024, marking a $0.03 increase, or 3.4%, compared to the previous quarter."Allstate’s increase in common dividend per share reflects our ongoing commitment to reward our shareholders, and shows Allstate’s continued financial strength," stated Jess Merten, Allstate’s Chief Financial Officer.The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.92 on each outstanding...

Banking & Financial Services

Ready, Set, Camp! AAA Trip Canvas Offers New Travel Booking Feature

AAA Trip Canvas, AAA Travel’s digital travel planning tool, has introduced a new campgrounds category in partnership with RoverPass, a leading platform in booking campgrounds and RV parks. The collaboration aims to enhance the camping and RV travel experience for users by providing detailed information about camping destinations and amenities.“AAA Trip Canvas was designed with our members in mind, and we’re thrilled to now offer camping destinations,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel.The integration with RoverPass allows Trip Canvas users to...

Banking & Financial Services

Gene Boehm Named President and CEO Designate of AAA, Inc.

ORLANDO, Fla., (Feb. 22, 2024) – AAA has announced the appointment of Gene Boehm as the President and CEO Designate for AAA, Inc., effective April 1. In his new role, Boehm will be leading the national team that supports the federation of AAA clubs and its over 57 million members in the United States."I am honored that the AAA Board and selection committee have entrusted me with the incredible responsibility of leading the gold standard of brands," said Boehm. "Marshall leaves an impressive legacy for his dedication to AAA’s mission serving members, and I am committed to...

Banking & Financial Services

Cam Heyward Reflects on Winning Walter Payton Man of the Year

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward has recently been named the 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year presented by Nationwide. In an interview, Heyward shared insights into his charitable work, particularly with The Heyward House. Heyward expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, "We caught up with the 13-year NFL veteran to discuss his work with The Heyward House."During the award ceremony, Heyward had a memorable encounter with another esteemed figure from the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise. The article mentions that Heyward was able to share a...

Banking & Financial Services

Challenges to NCAA Policies: Antitrust Concerns and Student Athlete Rights

Robert Bork Jr., president of the Antitrust Education Project, stated that the National Collegiate Athletics Association’s (NCAA) attempts to impose restrictions and penalties on the ability of student athletes to compete and earn are "unfair." The NCAA is currently grappling with legal challenges in the form of two multi-state lawsuits over their policies related to student athlete’s name, image, and likeness (NIL).

Banking & Financial Services

Gas Prices Surge as Refinery Shutdown Causes National Average to Rise

Gas prices in the United States have experienced a sudden surge, with the national average for pump prices increasing by 12 cents in just one week. This rise comes after months of relatively stable prices, prompting concerns among consumers. One of the primary factors contributing to this sudden increase is the shutdown of the BP-Whiting refinery in Indiana. The refinery, which processes 435,000 barrels of crude oil per day, has been offline for over two weeks due to a power outage. As a result, prices in the Midwest region have skyrocketed, subsequently pushing the...

Banking & Financial Services

Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking Systems Show Mixed Results in AAA Research

Recent research conducted by AAA examined the performance of reverse automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems in four popular 2023 model-year vehicles equipped with rear cross-traffic mitigation. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of these systems in preventing collisions while backing out of a parking space and encountering a stationary child pedestrian.In the backing-up scenarios, the reverse AEB systems automatically applied brakes in 65% of test runs and prevented a collision in 2.5% of test runs when a subject vehicle crossed behind the test vehicle. When a...