Most premiums are accounted for by automobile, property and liability insurance. The industry is viewed as being well capitalized by market analysts.
Foreign companies can enter through a branch as well as through a separately capitalized subsidiary.
The federal government and the provinces share jurisdiction over insurance regulation. There are more than 230 insurers active in Canada, including both Canadian-incorporated companies and branches of foreign companies licensed in Canada. Besides the 40,000 employees and agents of these companies, Canada has an extensive network of stand-alone insurance intermediaries employing a further 60,000. Seven of the ten largest insurers are foreign-owned, and foreign insurers account for 68 per cent of net premiums earned. They are allowed to enter Canada through branches as well as through separately capitalized subsidiaries.