2026 MARKET TRENDS

Multinational

Key Takeaways

  • Capitalize on softening conditions in non-catastrophe property and cyber markets while preparing for stricter underwriting in casualty and catastrophe-exposed sectors driven by inflation and nuclear verdicts
  • Address the growing complexity of global regulations, particularly regarding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), data privacy and solvency requirements, to help ensure seamless international program design
  • Leverage risk engineering, climate resilience measures and robust cyber controls to differentiate your risk profile and help secure more favorable renewal outcomes

Fragmented regulations around ESG, data privacy and solvency add to the multinational challenges.

Overview

Multinational organizations face a dynamic international insurance market shaped by rising liability costs from economic and social inflation, stricter underwriting and higher rates. Fragmented regulations around ESG, data privacy and solvency add to the challenge, while growing pressures on sustainability reporting and climate disclosure increase compliance demands. Although cyber coverage remains accessible and competitively priced, increasing claim frequency suggests potential shifts ahead, reinforcing the importance of proactive risk management.

Market Conditions

The global commercial property market is generally stable and even softening for risks not exposed to natural catastrophes. This is due to ample capacity and improved modeling. However, regions prone to catastrophic events still face tighter terms, higher deductibles and more selective carrier appetite.

Natural disaster loss trends, including secondary perils like convective storms, floods and wildfires, continue to heavily impact these CAT-exposed locations. Global insured catastrophe losses are estimated to surpass $146 billion, well above the 10-year average of $108 billion.1 In contrast, the global casualty market remains firm. Carriers maintain strict underwriting discipline for general liability, auto and excess casualty lines, particularly in segments affected by social inflation and large nuclear verdicts. Carriers are increasing reserves due to uncertainty, as rising litigation costs and social inflation elevate liability expenses worldwide. This trend is especially impactful from an excess and umbrella perspective.

The cyber market continues to be favorable for insureds. Insurance buyers are finding expanded capacity, broader coverage options and competitive pricing. This positive environment is partially offset by an increase in the frequency of claims and a heightened focus from carriers on existing security controls and concentrations of exposure.

Across different regions, conditions vary:

1 Swiss Re Institute. Natural Catastrophes Trend, Sigma Research 2025-01.

Please note, rate indications are subject to variability across different regions. The rates provided are a general overview.

Impacts & Considerations

To navigate these trends and improve renewal outcomes:

Invest in risk engineering and climate measures. Document improvements for underwriters using clear data and photographs to help demonstrate a stronger risk profile.


Strengthen cybersecurity with multi-factor authentication, regular offline backups and vendor risk scoring.


Explore alternative risk financing structures to manage costs and coverage effectively. Options like captives, parametric covers for specific perils and layered insurance programs can help provide greater flexibility and control in an uncertain international market.


Download this report
Go to Employee Benefits Report
Go to Personal Insurance Report

Ready to find your solutions?

Let's chat

Brown & Brown, Inc. and all its affiliates, do not provide legal, regulatory, tax guidance and/or advice. If legal advice, counsel or representation is needed, the services of a legal professional should be sought. The information in this document is intended to provide a general overview of the topics and services contained herein. Brown & Brown, Inc. and all its affiliates make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of the document and undertakes no obligation to update or revise the document based upon new information or future changes.

Legal Notices | Your Privacy Rights | Do Not Sell/Share/Limit Disclosure | Cookies Policy | Accessibility | Commitment to EEO | Medicare Disclaimer | Ethics Hotline | Consumer Health Data Privacy | CA Notice at Collection