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February 14, 2025

Liberty Company Secures Strategic $100 Million Funding to Propel Future Growth and Innovation

Liberty Company Insurance Brokers (Liberty), one of America's fastest-growing privately held insurance brokerages, has announced the $100 million upsizing of its syndicated credit facility, led by JPMorgan Chase. This capital infusion marks another significant step in Liberty's ongoing growth, building on the momentum of its August 2023 $340 million credit facility offering.

Strategic Growth and Continued Confidence

This capital will enable Liberty to continue to accelerate its strategic initiatives, particularly in mergers and acquisitions and the expansion of specialized industry services. Bill Johnson, CEO of Liberty, reflected on the significance of the ongoing relationship with JPMorganChase:

"We are grateful for the tremendous and ongoing support extended by our lending group to our business,” Johnson said. “This funding enhances our capability to continue to invest in our infrastructure, new partnerships, and most importantly, hiring and developing great people to fuel our growth."

Insurance Industry Impact and Market Reach

The new funding will primarily be channeled into expanding Liberty’s footprint through targeted mergers and acquisitions, and enhancing the company's ability to offer tailored, innovative solutions across various sectors. Furthermore, Liberty will continue to invest in the development of cutting-edge insurance products and services that meet the evolving needs of its diverse client base.

Responsible Financial Management and Future Success

The additional $100 million funding is poised to impact Liberty’s strategic trajectory significantly. CFO Bernadetta Scholz highlights how this capital will underpin key growth initiatives and strengthen financial stability.

"This pivotal funding not only supports our strategic acquisitions but also fortifies our market presence," said Scholz. "It reflects our strong financial health and the strategic foresight that Liberty maintains in a dynamic economic landscape. We are strategically positioning ourselves to take full advantage of growth opportunities that will enhance our competitive edge and deliver substantial value to our stakeholders."

Empowering the Team for Future Challenges

The $100 million infusion is also a commitment to the employees, ensuring they have ample opportunities for professional growth and development. This investment supports our goal of being an employer of choice in the industry, where innovation and personal advancement go hand in hand with the company's growth.

Reinforced Commitment to Innovation and Client Service

As Liberty continues to grow, its focus remains steadfast on innovation and excellence in client service. The additional funding will enable the company to enhance its product offerings and client engagements further, ensuring that Liberty remains at the forefront of the insurance industry. About The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers is among America's fastest-growing privately-held insurance brokerages. With a commitment to integrity, excellence, and client service, Liberty provides a dynamic platform for entrepreneurial producers and agency leaders. For more information about Liberty and its innovative approach to the insurance business, connect with us on LinkedIn.
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February 14, 2025

In Memoriam, Greg Thompson, THOMCO

It is with profound sadness that we share news about the passing of our esteemed colleague, mentor, board member, and friend, Greg Thompson. Greg was a true pioneer in the program space, founding and building a premier program administrator, THOMCO, which operated successfully for over 30 years. His contributions to the TMPAA were unparalleled, helping shape the organization into what it is today. As a dedicated advisory board member for more than 20 years—including two years as president—Greg’s thought leadership left an indelible mark. His generosity in sharing time and expertise had a profound impact on countless individuals, with the success of many in our industry being a direct result of his guidance. Some of Greg’s key contributions to TMPAA include:
  • Serving 20+ years on the TMPAA Advisory Board, including two years as president.
  • Playing a pivotal role in the creation and evolution of Target University, which awarded over 200 Certified Program Leader (CPL) designations in its 15-year history. He was also instrumental in the transition and development of the new insurance designation, Program Business Professional (PBP), offered by The Institutes.
  • Leading the development and implementation of the TMPAA Best Practice Designation.
  • Regularly presenting at TMPAA events, offering valuable insights to help program administrators succeed.
  • Founding and chairing the PA Executive Leadership Group, providing a confidential forum for program administrators to address operational challenges.
  • Spearheading the establishment of the TMPAA Charities Endowment Fund, ensuring the longevity of the TMPAA Charities Scholarship Program and helping bring new talent into the program space.
Greg’s legacy will continue to influence the program insurance industry for years to come. More than a leader, he was a visionary, a mentor, and a friend to many. He will be deeply missed, but his impact will never be forgotten.
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February 14, 2025

Heavy Rain Threatens Fire-Scarred California with Landslides and Flooding

The recent storm slamming California is bringing heavy rain to fire-ravaged areas, raising concerns about flooding, mudslides, and landslides. Southern California, particularly Los Angeles, is seeing the heaviest rainfall, with some areas expecting over six inches of rain.

Burn scars from last month's Palisades and Eaton fires are especially vulnerable to debris flow and erosion. Authorities have issued evacuation warnings for fire-affected zones, including Sierra Madre and parts of Malibu. The city has taken preventive measures such as clearing catch basins, distributing sandbags, and setting up barriers.

The rain is expected to subside overnight, but the risk of landslides remains a significant concern for fire-impacted regions.

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February 13, 2025

The Growing Threat to Homeownership: How Insurance Challenges Could Disrupt Mortgages in High-Risk Areas

Recent testimony from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell has highlighted a looming crisis in the U.S. housing market. Powell warned that in the next 10 to 15 years, securing a mortgage in certain parts of the country may become nearly impossible due to escalating difficulties in the insurance sector. As insurers continue to withdraw from high-risk regions, homebuyers and homeowners alike face an uncertain financial future.

The Impact of Insurance Market Instability

The increasing frequency and severity of climate-related disasters have significantly impacted the insurance industry. Insurers are experiencing growing financial losses due to hurricanes, wildfires, and other catastrophic events. In response, major insurance providers, including State Farm, have begun canceling policies in areas deemed too risky. As a result, homeowners in these regions are often forced to rely on state-backed insurance programs, which typically come with higher premiums and reduced coverage options.

The Connection Between Insurance and Mortgages

For most homebuyers, securing a mortgage is contingent upon having adequate homeowners insurance. With private insurers retreating from disaster-prone areas, mortgage lenders are facing greater difficulty in ensuring that their loan recipients can maintain proper coverage. Powell emphasized that if the risks continue to escalate, financial institutions will no longer be willing to provide mortgages in these vulnerable regions. Without insurance, lending institutions cannot mitigate their risk, effectively shutting out prospective homeowners from these markets.

Broader Housing Market Challenges

The potential unavailability of mortgages due to insurance withdrawals compounds existing challenges in the housing sector. Powell acknowledged that housing affordability issues are already a significant concern, largely driven by supply shortages. Although adjustments in interest rates may provide some temporary relief, they will not address the underlying problem of affordability. Additionally, while government-backed entities like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac currently play a role in stabilizing mortgage rates, Powell suggested that their long-term role remains a matter for congressional debate.

Future Outlook for Homeownership

As climate risks intensify, financial institutions, insurance providers, and policymakers must navigate a rapidly shifting housing landscape. Homeowners and potential buyers in high-risk areas may need to explore alternative risk management strategies, including enhanced disaster preparedness measures and legislative interventions to stabilize insurance markets. Without meaningful solutions, the convergence of rising insurance costs, declining coverage availability, and lender hesitancy could reshape homeownership in disaster-prone regions, making it increasingly inaccessible to many Americans.
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February 13, 2025

Why Insurance Professionals Can’t Miss the 2025 IICF Global Conference

The 2025 Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) Global Conference will bring together top industry professionals for an action-packed two-day event focused on leadership, innovation, and talent strategies. Taking place June 10–11, 2025, at Gotham Hall in New York City, this is the only insurance industry leadership event designed to drive meaningful discussions while supporting charitable causes.

Empowering the Future of Insurance

Under the theme “Empowering our Future: Personal Leadership, Innovation, and Winning Talent Strategies,” this year’s conference will provide attendees with practical insights and strategies to address key challenges, including:

  • Navigating the talent crisis and attracting the next generation of insurance professionals
  • Developing personal leadership skills to excel in today’s evolving business environment
  • Staying ahead of innovation to drive growth and success

In addition to thought-provoking discussions, the conference offers valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders from across the globe.

Making an Impact Beyond the Industry

What sets the IICF Global Conference apart is its leadership with purpose. The event directly benefits nonprofit partners supporting:

  • Women and children at risk
  • Families facing food and housing insecurity
  • Veterans in need of support

By attending, you’re not just investing in your professional growth—you’re making a real difference in communities in need.

Register Now for Early Bird Rates

Don’t miss out on this transformative event. Early bird registration is now open—secure your spot today at IICF Global Conference.

About IICF

Since 1994, the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) has united the insurance industry to create lasting community impact. With over $50 million in grants and 355,000+ volunteer hours, IICF continues to be the philanthropic voice of the industry.

Learn more at www.iicf.org or follow IICF on LinkedIn and Instagram.

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February 13, 2025

How Tariffs Could Lead to Higher Car Insurance Costs

Car insurance rates are influenced by a variety of factors, from claims trends to repair costs. One less obvious but significant driver of rising insurance costs is the potential impact of tariffs on car parts and vehicles. If tariffs on imported auto components increase, insurers may face higher claim costs, ultimately affecting policyholders.

The Link Between Tariffs and Insurance Costs

Tariffs on imported auto parts can directly raise the cost of vehicle repairs. When insurers assess claim payouts, they consider the price of replacement parts and labor. If tariffs make these parts more expensive, the overall cost of claims rises. Insurers must then adjust their pricing models to reflect these increases, which can eventually lead to higher premiums for policyholders. Additionally, if tariffs make new vehicles more expensive, demand for used cars may rise, pushing up their prices. Since insurers base policy rates on the cost to repair or replace a vehicle, an increase in used car values can also contribute to higher insurance costs.

A Delayed Impact on Premiums

Unlike other consumer goods, changes in insurance pricing take time to reflect market shifts. Insurance is regulated at the state level, meaning companies must justify rate changes based on current claim trends. If tariffs lead to increased claims costs, insurers may only be able to adjust rates a year or more later when renewals occur. This delayed effect means that even if tariffs are implemented today, their full impact on insurance costs might not be felt immediately.

Industry Projections and Cost Estimates

Industry groups have already begun analyzing the potential financial implications of tariffs. According to the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, about 60% of auto replacement parts used in U.S. repairs come from Canada, Mexico, and China. A broad increase in tariffs could add over $7 billion in claim costs for personal auto insurers. These costs would likely be passed down to policyholders over time. A study by the Insurance Information Institute further supports this concern. Using a stress-test model, the institute estimated that a tariff range of 3% to 7% could increase overall replacement costs by up to 7.7% above standard inflation over two years. If tariffs were higher and long-lasting, they could have even more significant consequences for insurance rates.

Factors That Could Mitigate Rising Insurance Costs

While tariffs could drive up insurance costs, some factors might help offset their impact. Insurers have already implemented rate increases in recent years to adjust for inflation and rising claim expenses. Some companies may opt to absorb minor cost increases to stay competitive in the marketplace. Additionally, improvements in repair efficiency or labor costs could help balance out higher material costs. Another consideration is the duration of tariffs. If they are short-term or include exemptions for certain auto-related products, the impact on repair costs and insurance premiums may be less severe. However, if high tariffs remain in place for an extended period, their effects could linger in the insurance industry for years.
Conclusion
The relationship between tariffs and car insurance costs is complex, but the fundamental principle remains: higher repair and replacement costs can lead to higher insurance premiums. While the full effects of tariffs take time to materialize in insurance pricing, consumers should be aware that economic policy decisions can have long-term consequences on their coverage costs. As insurers navigate these potential challenges, policyholders may see shifts in premium rates in the years ahead.
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February 12, 2025

Insurance Industry in 2025: Top Trends and Predictions from Novidea

The insurance industry is set for significant shifts in 2025, driven by economic recovery, technological innovation, and evolving risk landscapes. Novidea, a global provider of cloud-based insurance management solutions, has unveiled ten key predictions shaping the sector across the U.S. and the U.K.

U.S. Insurance Market Trends

Mergers and Acquisitions on the Rise

The insurance mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market is poised for a resurgence as the U.S. economy stabilizes post-pandemic. Insurtech investment will increase with normalizing interest rates, and carriers are expected to target MGAs for acquisitions. Successful integrations will rely on insurtech platforms to standardize and automate processes across diverse business types.

Reinsurers See Cautious Growth Amid Climate Challenges

Despite record-breaking climate costs, reinsurers will experience modest growth in 2025. The increasing frequency of weather-related claims has heightened the need for real-time risk visibility. Reinsurers will lean on advanced technology to ensure high-quality data access and improve risk management.

Cyber Insurance Adapts to Emerging Threats

The Crowdstrike outage highlighted critical gaps in cyber insurance policies, particularly concerning non-malicious tech failures. Expect an influx of specialized risk products addressing business interruptions from such incidents. Insurers will need robust front-to-back office systems to navigate these evolving risks.

E&S and Specialty Insurance Boom Continues

The excess and surplus (E&S) market was a standout performer in 2024, a trend set to continue into 2025. To sustain growth, E&S insurers will prioritize technological advancements in automation, AI, cloud computing, and data analytics. Companies like Pathpoint, a Novidea client, have already leveraged tech investments to achieve significant policy submission growth.

Insurtech Ecosystems Drive Innovation

The role of insurtechs in creating modular, integrated technology solutions will expand in 2025. Insurers will increasingly implement API-driven ecosystems to enhance operational efficiency and lifecycle management. These advancements will lead to more robust and scalable insurance marketplaces.

U.K. Insurance Market Trends

MGAs Gain Momentum as Distribution Evolves

Carriers in the U.K. will face mounting pressure to expand distribution channels while maintaining profitability. Many will turn to MGAs as a strategic solution, enabling them to diversify their portfolios while retaining underwriting control.

Regulatory Changes Push Innovation Forward

Anticipation of the BP2 regulatory framework in 2025 will drive industry-wide innovation. Brokers, carriers, and MGAs must adopt unified platforms that integrate seamlessly with AI and data-driven tools to remain competitive. Technologies such as Docomotion’s document generation tools will play a key role in operational transformation.

Climate Risks Reshape Insurance Strategies

As climate extremes become more frequent in the U.K., insurers will face growing challenges in providing coverage for high-risk properties. Rising costs and reluctance to insure certain risks will necessitate greater reliance on high-quality climate data to improve risk assessment and policy structuring.

Talent Shortage Reaches Critical Levels

The ongoing talent crisis in the London Market will intensify in 2025. To attract younger professionals, insurers must emphasize the industry’s innovation potential. Companies are integrating innovation into all departments, leveraging platforms like Novidea to modernize operations and appeal to tech-savvy talent.

AI Transformation Gains Momentum

Artificial intelligence is set to revolutionize insurance, from underwriting to claims management and customer service. However, 2025 will be a year of preparation rather than full-scale transformation. Insurers must invest in modern technology infrastructures capable of integrating AI-driven tools to stay ahead in the evolving landscape.

Looking Ahead

The insurance industry is on the brink of substantial transformation, with M&A activity, climate risk adaptation, and AI-driven innovation leading the charge. As insurers navigate these changes, investing in advanced technology platforms will ensure long-term success in an increasingly complex and competitive market.
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February 12, 2025

Cybersecurity in the Insurance Industry: Key Risks and Takeaways

The insurance industry faces a complex cybersecurity landscape, balancing strong security scores with significant vulnerabilities. This blog will explore the key findings from SecurityScorecard's recent report, A Cybersecurity Assessment of the Insurance Industry Supply Chain, highlighting the industry's top cyber risks, the impact of third-party breaches, the growing threat of ransomware, and geographic variations in risk. It will also provide actionable insights for insurance carriers on how to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. According to the assessment, insurance companies maintain an average security score of 86/88, aligning with most industries. However, only 77% of companies earned A or B grades, compared to at least 81% in other sectors. This discrepancy raises concerns about the remaining 23% of underperforming companies and their potential risks.

Top Cyber Risk Factors

The assessment identified three key cyber risk factors affecting the industry:
  • Application Security (40%) – Weaknesses in software security create significant vulnerabilities.
  • DNS Health (29%) – A higher-than-usual ranking for this factor suggests potential systemic issues.
  • Network Security (20%) – Gaps in network protection further expose organizations to cyber threats.
Additionally, the most common security flaws involve weak or missing encryption, including:
  • Outdated SSL/TLS protocols
  • Unencrypted redirect chains
  • Unencrypted cookies

Breach and Compromise Trends

The report highlights a troubling rate of breaches and compromised credentials:
  • 56% of insurance companies had at least one compromised credential in the past two years, with U.S. insurance carriers leading in volume (median: 15; mean: 433).
  • 28% of companies reported breaches, surpassing the S&P 500 (21%) and doubling the U.S. energy industry (14%), though still lower than U.S. federal contractors (35%).
  • 17% of companies experienced malware infections and device compromises, though the overall severity was lower than the percentage implies.

Implications for Insurance Carriers

Insurance carriers and reinsurance providers scored the highest in security ratings, while agencies, brokers, and insurance-specific IT vendors scored the lowest. This gap poses an increasing third-party risk for carriers, as they rely on lower-scoring partners for essential services. The study also found:
  • Breach rates were highest in the U.S. insurance sector, affecting both carriers and agencies/brokers.
  • 42 companies experienced breaches, and 12 suffered multiple breaches—primarily U.S.-based carriers and agencies.

Third-Party Breaches and Supply Chain Exploits

The report underscores third-party risk as a critical issue, with 59% of breaches stemming from external partners—more than double the global cross-industry average (29%). Key findings include:
  • Many companies affected by third-party breaches had above-average security scores (mean: 88, median: 89), indicating attackers are targeting well-defended firms through their weaker suppliers.
  • Third-party software & IT vendors were responsible for 50% of breaches, while cross-industry software & IT contributed 37%—far more than insurance-specific IT (13%).
  • The 2023 MOVEit file transfer software breach significantly contributed to third-party security incidents, demonstrating how vulnerabilities in widely used software can have far-reaching consequences.

The Growing Threat of Ransomware

The assessment reveals that ransomware remains the most significant cybersecurity threat to the insurance industry, with attacks occurring at higher rates than in most other industries. Every attack tied to a known threat actor involved ransomware. Notably:
  • There is a strong correlation between ransomware and third-party breaches, as supply chain vulnerabilities allow attackers to infect multiple targets simultaneously.
  • The insurance industry’s reliance on vendors with weaker security measures amplifies ransomware risks.

Geographic Variations in Cyber Risk

The study also highlights key regional trends:
  • Chinese insurance companies had the lowest security scores (79/79), contributing to third-party risk for foreign partners.
  • U.S. insurance companies reported the highest breach rates, particularly among carriers and agencies.
  • The U.S. remains a top target for cybercriminals, driven by:
    • The size and influence of the U.S. economy
    • The geopolitical role of the U.S. government
    • The widespread use of English in global business operations

Key Takeaways for the Insurance Industry

1. Address Third-Party Risk
  • Carriers must closely monitor and vet vendors, ensuring that agencies, brokers, and IT partners meet stringent cybersecurity standards.
  • Strengthening contractual security requirements for third-party providers can help mitigate exposure.
2. Improve Encryption and Application Security
  • Companies should update SSL/TLS protocols, eliminate unencrypted redirect chains, and enforce strong encryption for cookies.
  • Enhancing application security can reduce vulnerabilities that attackers frequently exploit.
3. Strengthen Ransomware Defenses
  • Given ransomware’s dominance, companies must invest in incident response plans and employee training.
  • Using advanced threat detection tools can help identify and block ransomware before it spreads.
4. Monitor Global Cyber Trends
  • U.S.-based insurance companies should prepare for higher breach attempts, while companies partnering with Chinese firms should be aware of lower security scores and heightened third-party risks.
The insurance industry can fortify its cybersecurity defenses and reduce exposure to costly breaches by proactively addressing encryption gaps, third-party risks, and ransomware threats.
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February 12, 2025

Top 10 Hottest Housing Markets for 2025: Where Homes Are Selling Fast

As the housing market continues to evolve, homebuyers are setting their sights on cities with strong job growth, affordability, and high demand. While fluctuating mortgage rates present challenges, several metro areas are standing out as prime locations for home purchases in 2025. According to Zillow, the hottest housing markets this year are concentrated in the Northeast and Midwest, where home values are climbing at a steady pace and homes are selling significantly faster than the national average.

What Defines a Hot Market?

Zillow analyzed the 50 largest U.S. metro areas based on key factors, including:
  • Home value growth – Cities with steadily increasing property values.
  • Owner-occupied household increases – Indicators of growing demand.
  • Job growth vs. new construction – Balancing employment expansion with housing supply.
  • Speed of home sales – Homes selling significantly faster than the national median.
With these criteria in mind, here are the top 10 hottest housing markets for 2025:

1. Buffalo, NY

For the second consecutive year, Buffalo tops the list. The city’s proximity to Niagara Falls and affordable housing make it a desirable market. Home values are expected to rise 2.8% to $267,878, with homes going under contract in just 12 days.

2. Indianapolis, IN

A city with a strong economy and an affordable housing market, Indianapolis continues to attract homebuyers. Home values are forecast to rise to $285,086, and properties sell in about 14 days.

3. Providence, RI

A charming waterfront city with a mix of historic and modern appeal, Providence is set for 3.7% home value growth. While appreciation has slowed compared to 2024, homes still go under contract in 12 days.

4. Hartford, CT

With the highest home value growth on the list, Hartford properties are expected to appreciate 4.2%, reaching $378,693. This high demand means homes are selling in an astonishing 7 days.

5. Philadelphia, PA

Known for its walkability and historic landmarks, Philadelphia’s housing market remains strong. Home values are expected to rise 2.6%, and properties spend an average of 11 days on the market before going pending.

6. St. Louis, MO

Recognized as a top market for first-time buyers in 2024, St. Louis remains one of the most affordable cities on the list. Home values are expected to grow by 1.9% to $254,847, and homes typically sell within 8 days.

7. Charlotte, NC

A thriving economy and strong sports culture make Charlotte an attractive destination. Home values are projected to climb 3.2% to $389,383. The market remains competitive, with homes going under contract in about 20 days.

8. Kansas City, MO

Famed for its barbecue and jazz scene, Kansas City is becoming a real estate hotspot. Home values are forecast to grow by 2.7%, reaching $307,334. Buyers must act fast—homes here typically sell in 9 days.

9. Richmond, VA

Steeped in history yet bursting with modern culture, Richmond has seen rapid real estate growth. While things may slow slightly in 2025, home values are expected to increase by 2.9%, with homes going under contract in an average of 9 days.

10. Salt Lake City, UT

A magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, Salt Lake City boasts breathtaking mountain views and world-class skiing. Home values are projected to rise by 2.3%, reaching approximately $555,858. The market remains competitive, with homes selling in about 19 days.
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February 11, 2025

UMass Awards Student $10,000 After Halftime Contest Controversy

In a dramatic turn of events, the University of Massachusetts has decided to pay a student the full $10,000 prize for a halftime basketball contest after an insurance dispute called the validity of his winning shot into question.

Contest Winner Denied Prize After Review

During a women’s basketball game on Wednesday, student Noah Lee participated in a halftime challenge requiring him to complete a layup, free throw, three-pointer, and half-court shot within 25 seconds. Lee successfully sank all four shots, seemingly securing the grand prize. However, the university later announced that its insurance provider had denied the payout, citing concerns that the half-court shot was not taken from behind the designated line.

UMass Intervenes, Awards Student Directly

Following the insurance provider’s rejection, UMass took matters into its own hands. The school announced Friday that after reviewing four different camera angles, the insurer ruled Lee’s half-court attempt invalid. Unwilling to accept this outcome, the university decided to honor the prize itself. “We weren’t satisfied with that outcome and arrived at the decision to provide Noah with both a $10,000 award and a host of additional UMass athletics benefits,” the university said in a statement.

Insurance Company Pushes Back

In response to the university’s actions, Reno-based prize indemnification insurance provider Odds On Promotions stated that UMass had never officially filed a claim. The company asserted that its standard 30-day verification process had not yet concluded and that no final decision had been reached regarding the payout. While the insurance dispute remains unresolved, Lee walks away with the prize money and additional perks from UMass—ensuring a victorious ending to what could have been a disappointing outcome.
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February 11, 2025

Insurance Industry Outlook 2025: Key Trends and Challenges Ahead

The insurance industry is bracing for a transformative year in 2025, with analysts forecasting significant shifts in technology, risk management, and financial stability. Industry leaders from Celent, Deloitte, WTW, and Forrester have weighed in, offering insights into what insurers, agents, and policyholders can expect in the coming year.

AI Investments Surge Amid Growing Cybersecurity Concerns

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to dominate industry discussions, with insurers ramping up investments to enhance efficiency and streamline operations. Celent’s "Top Tech Trends Previsory: P&C Insurance 2025" report highlights how companies are leveraging AI-powered tools such as natural language processing, large language models (LLMs), and conversational capabilities to improve customer interactions and claims processing. However, as AI adoption accelerates, so does its misuse. Cybercriminals are deploying AI-driven deepfake technology and sophisticated phishing tactics, pushing insurers to prioritize cybersecurity. "The quality of cyberattacks is improving," warns Alvito Vaz, business manager of the ID Federation. "Carriers will continue to invest in cyber breach prevention, with multifactor authentication (MFA) becoming a primary tactic."

Climate Risks Reshape Insurance Market Strategies

Natural catastrophe losses exceeded $100 billion globally in 2024, marking the first time in six years such losses have been distributed across multiple smaller disasters rather than a single catastrophic event. This trend underscores the need for insurers to reassess underwriting strategies as climate risks extend beyond traditional high-risk zones. Severe convective storms, wildfires, and winter freezes are now integral to the industry’s risk models. "The insurance industry craves certainty and precision, but as climate change accelerates, this is becoming increasingly difficult," explains Jeff Saye, global insurance claims leader at Genpact. AI-driven catastrophe modeling is expected to play a crucial role in improving risk assessments and pricing accuracy. With insurers tightening coverage terms, policyholders may see higher premiums, increased deductibles, and stricter roof coverage policies. Admitted carriers are also retreating from catastrophe-prone regions, leading to greater reliance on surplus lines markets.

Agent Distribution Model Remains Profitable as M&A Activity Rises

Despite economic uncertainties, independent insurance agents and brokers reported strong financial performance in 2024, with organic growth reaching 10%. Reagan Consulting forecasts continued profitability in 2025, driven by economic stability and steady insurance rate increases. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the brokerage sector are also expected to rebound slightly. While deal activity dipped in 2023 due to rising interest rates, Reagan Consulting predicts 550-600 transactions in 2025. Private equity firms remain active buyers, but agency owners—previously concerned about potential tax increases—may be less motivated to sell under a Republican-led administration.

Financial Stability Expected Amid Lingering Challenges

The insurance industry's financial health is projected to stabilize in 2025, despite ongoing commercial auto and general liability lines pressures. According to an analysis by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) and Milliman, the personal auto combined ratio is nearing profitability, while property and casualty (P&C) industry performance is set to improve. Deloitte forecasts a reduction in the P&C combined ratio to 98.5% in 2024 and 2025, down from 103% in 2023, citing easing inflation and higher investment yields as contributing factors. However, commercial auto remains a challenge, with profitability unlikely before 2026.

A Resilient Industry Faces the Future

While black swan events have disrupted the insurance market in recent years, industry experts remain optimistic about its resilience. "We want lots of insurance companies, lots of diversification, lots of willing risk takers. And they will figure it out," says Paul Buse, principal at Real Insurance Solutions Consulting. As the industry enters 2025, insurers, agents, and policyholders alike must adapt to rapid technological advancements, evolving climate risks, and shifting market dynamics. The ability to "predict and prevent" rather than "react and repair" will be key to navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead.
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February 11, 2025

USG Announces Addition of William Harrow to Brokerage Division

USG Insurance Services, Inc., a prominent national wholesaler, and MGA is pleased to announce the addition of William Harrow to their esteemed Brokerage division. Harrow has joined the team as a Broker and will be working under the guidance of Mitchel Zelman, National Director of the Brokerage Division. With over 10 years of experience in the insurance industry, Harrow has a proven track record of growing territories and strengthening client relationships. He has successfully facilitated large property and casualty placements in the northeast, southeast, and mid-Atlantic regions, helping agents find the necessary coverages for their clients. Harrow has facilitated agency visits, developed sales strategies for new and existing clients, and effectively utilized customer management systems to drive results. USG is excited to see Harrow’s expertise and dedication in action as he contributes to the team’s continued success. This move is the most recent change that USG has implemented in its plan to continue expanding its operations nationally as a leading wholesaler brokerage firm. ABOUT USG: USG is a national wholesale broker and managing general agent (MGA) with offices throughout the country. USG represents 400+ A-rated carriers, both admitted and non-admitted, and is an MGA for 14 carriers, writing business in all states. USG's mission is to become the #1 provider of innovative solutions for the risk management industry--exceeding expectations with its advanced technology, creative problem-solving, and research capabilities. CONTACT INFORMATION: WILLIAM HARROW Broker d: 724.754.9054 e: wharrow@usgins.com
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