INSURANCE

Allstate Sees $262-Million Charge for Cleanup: The largest publicly traded U.S. home and auto insurer said it plans to take a charge totaling 58 cents a share for the third quarter to pay for discontinued business and to pay claims for companies forced to clean up pollution and asbestos. Allstate Corp. said the purpose is to boost its reserves for discontinued lines and coverage by $405 million. The move is part of the Northbrook, Ill., firm’s plan to “focus on the company’s core businesses of auto, home and life insurance,” Allstate Chairman and Chief Executive Jerry Choate said.