Chapter 3 Flashcards
What is the primary role of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI)?
To supervise and enforce safeguards ensuring financial health of Canadian and foreign insurance companies.
Which legislation governs the incorporation and regulation of insurance companies in Canada?
The Insurance Companies Act.
What are the three areas of supervision under the Insurance Companies Act?
Establishment, prerequisites to operation, and supervision during operation.
What legal document grants an insurance company its corporate status?
Letters patent.
Why is federal incorporation preferred for insurance companies?
To facilitate business operations across Canada.
What must an insurance company provide to obtain an order of commencement?
Incorporating documents, proof of capitalization, and other required information.
Where must the company publish notice of the order of commencement?
In a local newspaper and the Canada Gazette.
How often are insurance companies inspected by OSFI?
At least once a year, or every three years if deemed less frequent.
What must a company’s annual return include?
Assets, liabilities, income, expenditures, and actuarial/auditor reports.
What happens if a company fails to comply with OSFI directives?
OSFI may take control of assets and liquidate the company.
What is required for a foreign insurance company to operate in Canada?
An order of the superintendent approving specified risks in Canada.
Where must a foreign company vest its assets in Canada?
In trust with a Canadian financial institution.
What is the role of provincial/territorial regulators?
to supervise insurance companies operating exclusively in their jurisdictions.
Which insurance professionals are licensed by provinces/territories?
Agents, brokers, and adjusters.
What do provincial insurance acts regulate?
Statutory conditions, policy contents, and grounds for voiding policies.
Which policies are most affected by statutory conditions?
Accident and sickness, automobile, and fire insurance policies.
What is the purpose of PACICC?
To protect policyholders if an insurer becomes insolvent.
How is PACICC funded?
By the property and casualty (P&C) insurance industry.
What does PIPEDA govern?
Collection, use, and confidentiality of personal information.
Name three provinces with privacy legislation deemed “substantially similar” to PIPEDA.
Alberta, British Columbia, and Quebec.
What governs insurance contracts in Quebec?
The Civil Code of Québec.
How does the Civil Code differ from common law in other provinces?
It is not obliged to follow prior case law.
What is regulated under highway traffic acts?
Driver and vehicle licensing, and insurance proof requirements.
What penalties may result from operating an uninsured vehicle?
Fines and other legal penalties under traffic acts.