Top Insights for Insurance Professionals: Strategies and Trends

Editors have curated a selection of top content from Risk & Insurance and other online sources, offering insights for industry professionals. This includes detailed white papers, service directories, conference information, and a digital version of the magazine's print edition. Stacy Edlund, CPRIAAVP and Associate Regional Director at Aon in Seattle, emphasizes enhanced client service through extensive assessments of coverage and risks. One successful case involved consolidating a complex insurance portfolio spanning four carriers for a client with a home in a high-risk wildfire zone. By working closely with the underwriting team, Edlund secured the necessary approval for coverage and broader liability limits, resulting in a $20 million excess policy aligned with the client's risk management needs. In another case, to retain a client considering a brokerage change, Edlund conducted a thorough risk and coverage analysis. She uncovered lapses in policies, enhanced coverage to include provisions for adult children, and increased excess liability coverage. Edlund streamlined processes by aligning renewal and billing dates and developed a comprehensive spreadsheet for easier management, reducing client effort and optimizing their insurance program. The announcement of the 2026 Power Broker Winners highlights industry achievements, acknowledging exceptional client service, problem-solving, and expertise. Power Brokers are recognized based on endorsements from risk managers and evaluated by Risk & Insurance editors and writers, promoting high standards in risk management and customer service within the brokerage sector. Enlyte's new strategies focus on effective claims cost management, integrating solutions to cut expenses and reduce litigation risk. In cybersecurity, Liberty Mutual has launched initiatives to help businesses prepare for and mitigate cyber incident impacts, establishing a high-caliber team to address these challenges. According to Optis Partners, although the first quarter saw top acquirers responsible for 25% of transactions, overall deal volume decreased by 15%. In the specialty insurance market, increasing complexities and emerging threats are driving advancements in underwriting practices through technology and analytics. CargoNet's analysis reveals a rise in organized crime targeting high-value cargo thefts, with estimated losses of $725 million by 2025. Additionally, a recent legal decision emphasizes the importance for employees to actively pursue benefit claims, offering clearer guidelines for long-term claim management for insurers and employers. The role of AI in cybercrime reveals a protection gap, highlighting the need for increased awareness and preparedness against frequent attacks.