Polymeric compositions which contain a thermoplastic aromatic polyester, preferably polybutylene terephthalate, and a polyester block copolymer having a recrystallization temperature greater than 150.degree. C., preferably a thermoplastic elastomer containing aromatic polyester blocks and aliphatic polyester blocks. The ratio of the block copolymer to the aromatic polyester is 0.05:1 to 0.35:1, preferably 0.15:1 to 0.30:1. These compositions are particularly useful as the insulation on hermetic lead wires for use in refrigerant systems. To prevent cracking of such insulation when it is contacted by a varnish used to provide hermetic sealing, it can be covered by a thin layer of a fluoropolymer.