Market News

US property-casualty insurers reported $11.2 billion in net underwriting income during the first half of 2025, according to a new report from AM Best. This year's first-half income is a significant improvement from the $2.9 billion in underwriting income US property-casualty insurers posted during the same period in 2024. Read More

US commercial insurance rates increased 3.8 percent in the second quarter of this year, continuing a trend from the prior two quarters of slowing rate increases, according to Willis Towers Watson’s (WTW's) second quarter Commercial Lines Insurance Pricing Survey (CLIPS). Read More

The September issue of "Captive Insurance Company Reports" ("CICR") examines how captives support parent company missions and highlights insights from North Carolina's domicile, artificial intelligence governance frameworks, proposed § 831(b) reforms, Marsh's 2025 benchmarking study, and AM Best's reinsurance market briefing. Subscribers can access the full issue via Vertafore ReferenceConnect or IRMI Online. Read More

As baby boomer-owned construction companies seek succession options, many are turning to employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) and captive insurance. These strategies offer aligned benefits—enhancing risk management, supporting employee ownership, and securing long-term stability—making them ideal tools for companies navigating liquidity events, labor market challenges, and the industry's inherent operational risks. Read More

The August 2025 "Ivans Index" reveals continued year-over-year premium increases across most major commercial lines, while workers compensation remains in decline. Month-over-month trends were mixed, with notable increases in general liability and umbrella renewal rates. The index reflects market-wide premium shifts based on over 120 million insurance transactions. Read More