Europe's non-life insurers endure recession and competition.(Best's Special Report: Our Insight, Your Advantage. Excerpt: European Life)(Company rankings)

The insurance industry in Europe has withstood adverse economic circumstances, with 2009 capitalisation improving, although not to the levels attained just before the onset of the credit crisis. A.M. Best expects further slow progress in 2010, albeit hampered by the recession and excessive competition in many lines of business. For European ratings, A.M. Best expects affirmations to predominate in 2010 and into 2011.

* Strengthening of the credit and equity markets in 2009 resulted in a lift in capitalisation and overall profits for insurers, whilst underwriting performance showed signs of strain from competition and the recession.

* A.M. Best expects premiums in …