insurance settlement

**Zurich China paid a landmark $40 million settlement** for a product liability claim. A US child suffered permanent injuries in 2022 after swallowing a button battery from a defective Chinese-manufactured air conditioner remote insured by Zurich. As the excess layer insurer, Zurich settled the original $125.2M lawsuit to avoid a potentially higher US jury verdict. Completed in June 2025 (~¥141M), the payment impacted profits but left the insurer financially sound. This record settlement starkly highlights the catastrophic liability risks in markets like the US and the need for robust safety and tailored insurance for exporters.

Air Lease Corporation announced Q2 2025 results featuring fleet growth, portfolio adjustments, and a $344M insurance settlement. The lessor owns 495 aircraft with 241 new orders through 2031, focusing on fuel-efficient models to meet emissions standards. Initiatives included 12 aircraft deliveries ($890M spent) and selling 4 older jets for $126M. The Russia-related insurance resolution removes financial uncertainty, potentially boosting shareholder returns. Analysts highlight AL’s 4.2-year average fleet age and $29B in committed rentals as competitive strengths, with 94% of current assets leased. The company maintains its role as a key aviation financier amid industry decarbonization efforts.