The big question Allstate will need to answer in its conference call tomorrow is how much of the risk they'll retain and what will be the pricing trends,

We try to take the highest risk cases.

It was a mildly disappointing quarter. Operating earnings missed the analysts' target and the property and casualty side was worse than I thought.

I don't expect the Wachovia (joint venture) to be a big headache going forward. It's not a cheap stock but it's still a good franchise with good growth prospects.

If you're comfortable with high risk, fine, ... But if you're uncomfortable with risk, you can't do without value.

but not at the risk of further reducing already inadequate food aid for those who need it most.