ACE Ltd not only closed its US and UK operations today as a safety precaution, but also closed its Bermuda offices in sympathy to the victims of the tragedy.

And the company announced that the offices would be closed both in Bermuda and the US for security reasons today as well.

ACE confirmed it did not have any offices in the World Trade Centre.

A spokeswoman said: "As a safety precaution all ACE offices in the US as well as offices in London have been closed for the time being. Brian Duperreault, the chief executive officer of ACE Ltd., met with the ACE staff in Bermuda at 1 p.m. this afternoon and provided employees with an update and he has closed the offices in Bermuda in sympathy.

"Everyone is terribly shaken by this horrendous event," said Mr. Duperreault.

Chubb Atlantic Indemnity are also believed to have closed their offices for the day, and others are expected to follow.