Market News

US farm bureau property and casualty insurers returned to underwriting profitability in 2025 after 4 years of losses, according to AM Best. Underwriting gains continued into 2026, supported by rate increases, favorable reinsurance pricing, and less severe weather. Life/annuity farm bureau insurers also recorded steady surplus growth and stronger premium growth. Read More

Employer-sponsored health benefit costs are projected to rise 8.2 percent in 2027, the largest increase since 2003, according to preliminary Marsh survey findings. Rising prescription drug expenses, medical claims, and other cost pressures are driving increases, prompting employers to consider benefit changes and strategies to manage healthcare spending. Read More

This podcast examines how stop-loss captives help self-insured employers manage rising healthcare costs and improve employee benefits strategies. Industry experts discuss captive suitability, actuarial analysis, funding structures, insurer partnerships, and the use of claims data to support long-term financial sustainability, proactive risk management, and more informed healthcare decisions. Read More

The combined ratio measures an insurer's incurred losses and underwriting expenses relative to earned premiums. For captive insurance companies, it provides insight into underwriting performance, expense management, and reserve development. However, the ratio does not capture all financial and strategic benefits a captive may provide to its owners or members. Read More

HUB International’s 2026 report examines how risk fatigue, competing business exposures, and limited understanding of insurance coverage affect organizational resilience. Findings highlight declining confidence in managing risks, gaps in enterprise risk management practices, and the importance of integrating risk assessments into business decisions to support profitability and long-term stability. Read More