ALLSTATE GAINS CALIF. RATE HIKE APPROVAL

Allstate Corp. got the go-ahead from state regulators May 2 to make increases in both auto and homeowner insurance rates, according to the Los Angeles Times. California’s third largest insurer had requested a homeowner increase of 22.3 percent, getting the nod for an 18.5 percent increase. On the auto side, Allstate requested an increase of 20.1 percent, and was given approval for an 8.9 percent jump in rates. Allstate’s new rates will go into effect later this month.