The Connected Podcast

Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum

Co-curated by Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum, The Connected Podcast is a daily scan of all the happenings in the world of Insurance & InsurTech News.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Record Market Gains in 2025, Dollar Lower

    The Connected Podcast: Exploring the Insurance EcosystemWelcome to The Connected Podcast, where we delve into the latest news and events shaping the insurance ecosystem. In our recent episode, we focus on a transformative development within the industry: the significant impact of artificial intelligence on the operations of major insurance companies.   This episode highlights Nationwide's remarkable adoption of AI technology, illustrating the profound changes taking place at this Fortune 100 company known for its standout customer service. Nationwide has revolutionized its claims operations by leveraging artificial intelligence to bolster efficiency and accelerate processes.   By strategically integrating AI, Nationwide has positioned itself as an industry leader, setting a new standard for others to follow. This enhancement not only allows for faster and more accurate claims processing but also significantly improves the overall customer experience. The episode emphasizes the pressing need for insurance companies to embrace AI technology to stay competitive and relevant in the market.   As AI continues to develop, its capacity to predict future trends and automate routine tasks in claims departments suggests a future dominated by AI-driven processes. These advancements signal ongoing innovations within the sector, promising a transformative journey ahead. Join us as we explore these pivotal changes and more in the world of insurance on The Connected Podcast.   Links: Record Market Gains in 2025, Dollar Lower Nationwide Spending $100M on AI to Beef up Claims Efficiency, Customer Experience

    3 min

  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    Verisk Pulls Plug on $2.4 Billion AccuLynx Deal After FTC Review Delay

    The Connected Podcast - Insurance News & Events The Connected Podcast: News & Events in the Insurance Ecosystem In this episode of The Connected Podcast, our hosts venture into the intricate world of historical and contemporary developments shaping the insurance ecosystem. We kick off with a fascinating journey through time, tracing how cultural traditions of marking time have evolved. From the ancient Babylonian festival Akitu to today's New Year's Eve celebrations and the famed Times Square ball drop, we explore the transformation of these traditions over the centuries.   The podcast then brings into focus a significant event from the insurance tech industry: Verisk's ambitious $2.35 billion acquisition plan of AccuLynx. Originally intended to be finalized by 2025, unforeseen challenges arose when the U.S. Federal Trade Commission failed to complete its review by the deadline. This prompted Verisk to terminate the agreement, a decision disputed by AccuLynx. Analysts now speculate about Verisk's potential strategy adjustments, including increased share repurchases in response to the acquisition setback.   Continuing the conversation, we highlight an innovative development in public safety technology. The LiDAR Saving Lives Public Safety Coalition has launched the groundbreaking ROADMEDIC Airbag Deployment Satellite IoT Clearinghouse, created by Roadside Telematics Corporation. This revolutionary platform is set to transform emergency response systems by providing real-time alerts and information through smart airbag deployments, thereby enhancing timeliness and operational effectiveness during emergencies.   Our episode also delves into the dynamic legislative landscape and its impact on the insurance industry over the past year. Key developments in workers' compensation include Pennsylvania's proposed bill for medicinal cannabis allocations, Florida's rate reductions, and California's rate hikes. Legal rulings like Ohio's denial of permanent disability claims for combined injuries, alongside debates in New York and Kentucky regarding psychological injuries, further shape this landscape.   Moreover, the realm of mergers and acquisitions sees major players such as Marsh, Aon, and Arthur J. Gallagher seize attention with multi-billion-dollar deals, reshaping the industry's dynamics. Concurrent issues like broker-poaching lawsuits, tariff impacts, FEMA changes, and driver data sharing also play crucial roles in influencing the sector.   Insurtech stands as a transformative force, with market projections growing from $20 billion in 2025 to $23.5 billion in 2026. This segment emphasizes technology's role, with AI, data analytics, and automation reshaping customer experiences and operational efficiencies. While AI bolsters workplace productivity, its role in job replacement remains minimal, underscoring the increasing importance of data and automation skills in the industry.   In another captivating segment, the discussion shines a light on the contrasting trajectories of two mega insurers within the Top 10 Auto Insurers, highlighting the pivotal role of technology in shaping the industry's future. We delve into Warren Buffett's surprising oversight regarding digital transformation, particularly impacting subsidiaries like Geico. Despite his mastery in traditional marketing, Buffett's reluctance to invest in technological advancements left Geico trailing behind tech-savvy competitors like Progressive. This narrative un

    9 min

  3. 6 DAYS AGO

    US P/C Insurance Underwriting Profitability Strong Despite Headwinds

    The Connected Podcast - Episode OverviewThe Connected PodcastTopic: News and Events in the Insurance Ecosystem   In the latest episode of The Connected Podcast, the focus is on the U.S. property and casualty insurance sector, which maintains a 'neutral' outlook for 2026. As highlighted by Fitch Ratings, the sector experienced a robust performance in the previous year, aided by a mild hurricane season and favorable reserve developments. However, it faces challenges such as rising competition, geopolitical uncertainty, slower economic growth, and a complex legal environment impacting claims management. Factors like large settlements, litigation abuse, and increasing claims severity drive up prices, especially in the commercial auto and general liability sectors.   The forecast suggests largely unchanged business conditions with resilience in capital and profitability, despite potential slight softening. Improved positive reserve releases in 2025 saw the combined ratio improve, with a projection of 96% to 97% for 2026, contingent on moderated hurricane seasons and reserve developments.   The homeowners insurance market shows early signs of stabilization, though affordability and premium concerns remain. According to the Insurance Information Institute, double-digit growth in net written premiums by 2025 could lead to profitability and stable pricing by 2026. Influencing these trends are inflation, high rebuilding costs, and climate-related losses, notably due to the Los Angeles wildfires.   Both sectors are grappling with complex pressures but also uncover opportunities for strategic adaptation and stabilization. As insurers and stakeholders navigate these dynamics, they must prepare for future challenges and opportunities.   This episode also explores the transformative impact of advanced technologies on the insurance industry, focusing on automotive claims. AI-powered tools, including sensors, image diagnostics, and automated damage detection, streamline the claims process, as highlighted by research from Helwan University with their Cost Estimation System combining computer vision and customer data. Despite these advancements, challenges like data integration and standardization persist. CCC Intelligent Solutions emphasizes a balanced approach to claims processing, harmonizing accurate payouts, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.   We also examine the hurdles tech startups face, particularly in scaling and handling financial surprises in meeting contractual insurance clauses, as discussed by Joseph Cook from The Arizona Group. The escalation from modest policies to complex, costly insurance programs is notable as companies grow, especially those backed by private equity, often focusing more on financial than operational needs.   In InsurTech, AI innovations continue with Nirvana Insurance raising $100 million in Series D funding to enhance their AI-native commercial insurance platform. Leveraging telematics and machine learning on substantial driving data, they offer tailored underwriting and efficient claims processes, showcasing AI's transformative potential.   The podcast also highlights developments in property and casualty insurance, showcasing XBP Global Holdings' five-year partnership with a U.S.-based insurer to revolutionize payment processing through AI and robotic process automation. This initiative aims to enhance security, speed, and user experience in mobile transactions.   Overall, the podcast emphasizes that AI and automation are not only improving current systems but also creating new opportunities within the i

    10 min

  4. 29/12/2025

    US weather forecast includes snow storms, sudden cold and bomb cyclone

    Welcome to the latest episode of The Connected Podcast, where we dive deep into the evolving landscape of the insurance ecosystem as 2025 comes to a close. This episode, packed with expert insights and thoughtful analysis, tackles the dynamic shifts affecting various sectors, including the formidable winter weather conditions wreaking havoc across the Midwest, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic states. Forecasters anticipate more disruptions, posing significant challenges for communities and the insurance industry alike.   As the insurance sector navigates a transformative period marked by major mergers and acquisitions, heavily influenced by private equity funding, we examine how these moves are reshaping the industry as it heads into 2026. Our guest, Gilad Shai from BMI Capital International, shares his expert insights, emphasizing the importance of growth and innovation.   The discussion takes a closer look at the automotive sector, where despite economic complexities such as tariffs and a rise in electric vehicle interest, the market has shown resilience. A 4.0% rise in retail sales through 2025 is noteworthy, even as December reflects a 7.5% year-over-year dip in total new-vehicle sales. We delve into the nuanced impacts of selling days on sales data, and although there is a slight shift in the seasonally adjusted annualized rate of sales, total sales across 2025 surpass 16 million units, showcasing the market’s adaptive strategies amidst ongoing challenges.   This episode spotlights key developments in the automotive insurance space, starting with a new vehicle donation program by the Collision Repair Education Foundation, Ford Motor Co., Collision Engineering Career Alliance, and I-CAR. This initiative equips students with access to modern vehicles, providing hands-on experience with contemporary automotive technology, and preparing a skilled future workforce in collision repair.   We then transition to economic challenges in vehicle ownership, noting a 33% increase in the price of new cars and trucks in the U.S. since 2020, with average costs now exceeding $50,000. These rising costs lead to longer loan terms and late payments, underscoring the need for sustainable purchasing strategies.   Furthermore, the segment explores the growing trend of total vehicle losses, driven by the complexity of advanced technologies and aging fleets that escalate repair costs. This trend necessitates strategic adjustments from insurers and repair professionals to navigate the modern challenges effectively.   Continuing with compelling narratives, we examine Kelly’s story, a driver from Houston, highlighting the surging car insurance costs that press many into minimal coverage choices. This situation places drivers in precarious positions, emphasizing an urgent need for the industry to innovate solutions for those most financially vulnerable.   The conversation further explores the sweeping influence of artificial intelligence in the property and casualty insurance sector. Major players like State Farm, USAA, and Allstate lead this charge by harnessing AI for claims processing, underwriting, and enhancing customer service. This wave of innovation raises strategic considerations around patent protection versus open collaboration amid the rapid tech advancements.   Finally, we delve into the concept of parametric insurance, often criticized for its "basis risk problem" but praised for quick payouts and cost-effectiveness. This segment challenges conventional perceptions by highlighting its value in providing rapid liquidity over accurate loss compensation, prompting a reevaluation of its role within the industry

    13 min

  5. 23/12/2025

    Trump Takes Aim at State Regulation of AI

    In the latest episode of The Connected Podcast, the focus is on two major developments impacting the insurance industry: AI regulation and fraud in the property and casualty (P&C) sector.   The episode begins with a discussion of President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at creating a unified regulatory framework for artificial intelligence across the U.S. This move seeks to prevent a patchwork of state laws that could complicate compliance. Key initiatives include setting up an AI Litigation Task Force to challenge restrictive state laws, having the Department of Commerce review existing AI-related state laws, and potentially withholding federal broadband funding from non-compliant states.   The podcast then shifts to the issue of fraud in the P&C operations, highlighted by the recent uncovering of a $14.6 billion fraud ring. With direct premiums surpassing one trillion dollars for the first time, the importance of effective entity resolution technology is underscored to combat fraud. The segment explains the significance of "entities," which encompass complex networks of identities, roles, and relationships, crucial for managing fraud risks and enhancing customer experiences. Effective use of entity resolution technology is emphasized as vital to unraveling these complexities and safeguarding against fraud, ensuring stronger operations within the P&C sector.   In this segment of The Connected Podcast, the discussion focuses on current innovations and shifts within the insurance ecosystem, emphasizing the transformative role of technology. The podcast begins by exploring the integration of artificial intelligence in group health insurance, with an NAIC survey indicating that 84% of U.S. health insurers have adopted AI. This shift is primarily fueled by AI's ability to manage rising costs, unforeseen claims, and complex risk profiles, offering enhanced cost efficiency, pricing transparency, and customization possibilities. However, holistic integration across operations remains crucial for maximizing these benefits.   The conversation then shifts to Tesla Insurance, highlighting how Tesla utilizes its insurance offerings to lower the overall cost of vehicle ownership rather than seeking profits, showcasing how tech companies could disrupt traditional insurance paradigms. Furthermore, insights from Guidewire suggest that the future of the P&C sector is being shaped by the move towards 'Intelligent Insurance' by 2026, emphasizing a data-driven approach, AI operationalization, and innovative partnerships, with Managing General Agents rising as key players.   Lastly, the podcast examines Progressive's recent trademark application for Snapshot Pro, indicating a strategic expansion into telematics and commercial auto insurance. This move highlights Progressive's dedication to advanced technology, aiming to enhance services, engage commercial policyholders, and refine pricing strategies with detailed data collection.   In a recent episode of The Connected Podcast, the focus was on significant developments in the insurance ecosystem, spotlighting how Beneva, a Quebec City-based insurer, advanced its digital capabilities in auto insurance. Beneva utilized Guidewire's Advanced Product Designer (APD) to enhance code automation and digital enablement, achieving a significant transformation in just eight weeks through collaboration with GFT, a German-based company. This partnership allowed Beneva to fully leverage Guidewire's features, offering more online services and business-user flexibility.   The episode also explored a broader trend in the U.S. auto insurance sector towards precision pricing. LexisNexis Risk Solutions highlighted the transition from broad to data-driven pricing strategies to improve claim efficiencies and res

    9 min

  6. 22/12/2025

    John Hancock CEO Tells Congress Incentives Can Drive Healthier Behavior

    The Connected Podcast: Navigating the Insurance EcosystemJoin us for this enlightening episode of The Connected Podcast, where we delve into the significant news and events shaping the insurance ecosystem. With a blend of historical narratives and contemporary insights, this episode uncovers the stories that reflect the industry's impact and innovation.   We begin with a look back at the inspiring tale of State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company during the Great Depression. Under Bob Pein's leadership, the company brought hope to Columbus, Ohio, with elaborate holiday celebrations, highlighting the power of community spirit in challenging times.   Shifting to the present, Brooks Tingle, CEO of John Hancock Financial, discusses health behavior modification through the Vitality program, which has successfully encouraged healthier lifestyles. His testimony in Washington, D.C., emphasizes the transformative potential of preventive healthcare incentives.   The episode then explores Palantir Technologies' strategic move into London's insurance market through a partnership with AIG, Blackstone, and Amwins. This collaboration not only boosts investor confidence but also underscores Palantir's journey from government contracts to complex financial services.   In another notable development, Lockton's new headquarters in Leawood, Kansas, symbolizes growth and innovation, set to open by 2030. This ambitious project includes office space, residential, retail, and hotel facilities, emphasizing Lockton's commitment to expansion.   We also touch on the affordability crisis in U.S. housing, noting that average spending on housing far exceeds recommended benchmarks. In Bellefontaine Neighbors, Missouri, affordability challenges are highlighted against a backdrop of economic hurdles.   Next, the controversial Risk Rating 2.0 overhaul of FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program garners attention. Despite its intent to reflect actual flood risks, the initiative has led to significant premium hikes, causing many policyholders to drop coverage, raising concerns about protecting vulnerable homeowners.   Also tabled is the issue of distracted driving, with over 3,200 fatalities in 2023. We explore how telematics advancements offer hope, fostering improved driving habits and reducing road accidents.   Turning to the financial sector, Clearwater Analytics' acquisition by a leading consortium affirms its transformational journey. CEO Sandeep Sahai discusses how going private will enable bolder growth in global markets and alternative asset management.   The episode further highlights Nirvana Insurance, a disruptor in the trucking industry with its $100 million Series D funding. Leveraging AI, Nirvana aims to revolutionize traditional insurance and support trucking fleets with customizable solutions.   Lastly, embedded insurance surfaces as a cornerstone of customer experience strategies, integrating seamlessly into consumer journeys. This resonates with a broader industry movement towards customer-centric approaches and technological enhancement.   Tune in to explore these narratives and more, as we dissect the dynamic shifts and evolutionary strides within the insurance industry.   Links: Season. Greetings State Auto brightened Christmas for years beginning in Great Depression Brooks Tingle Tells Congress Incentives Can Drive Healthier Behavior Palantir’s Strategic Foray into Insurance Signals Broader Ambitions Lockton plans new global headquarters in Kansas - Busine

    12 min

  7. 19/12/2025

    Reinsurance Market to Reach USD $629 Billion by 2030

    The Connected Podcast: News and Events in the Insurance Ecosystem The Connected Podcast: News and Events in the Insurance Ecosystem In this episode of The Connected Podcast, listeners are drawn into an insightful exploration of the reinsurance market and its pivotal role in navigating emerging challenges and opportunities. According to Mordor Intelligence, the market is projected to expand from approximately $469.70 billion in 2025 to nearly $629.7 billion by 2030, representing a CAGR of 6.04%. Major drivers for this growth include increasing catastrophe claims and stricter IFRS 17 requirements, which position reinsurers as indispensable allies for primary insurers. Specialty lines, particularly cyber risk, are in increased demand, leading reinsurers to incorporate digital tools and parametric solutions into their strategies.   The Swiss Re Institute provides a detailed analysis on insured losses from natural catastrophes, noting a sum of $107 billion in 2025. This figure marks the sixth consecutive year with losses surpassing $100 billion, though it reflects a decline from the previous year's $141 billion. Noteworthy losses arose from catastrophic events such as the Los Angeles wildfires—the most costly in history at $40 billion—and severe convective storms, which incurred $50 billion in losses. Meanwhile, Europe saw minimal damage from hailstorms, and the Atlantic hurricane season was unexpectedly mild.   A legislative highlight features the introduction of the Continuous Coverage for Flood Insurance Act. Propounded by Representatives Kathy Castor and Maria Salazar, this bipartisan bill aims to facilitate smoother transitions between private flood insurance and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) by redefining continuous coverage to include private insurers. This proposal aspires to enhance homeowner flexibility, spur competition, and potentially reduce costs in flood-prone regions.   Additionally, the episode delves into the insurance market dynamics, with a report from Matic indicating a deceleration in home insurance premium growth in 2025—rising at 8.5% compared to 18% the previous year, signaling market stabilization. However, climate unpredictability persists in affecting costs, as homeowners continue to bear more financial responsibility with a 22% increase in deductibles, while insurers employ advanced technologies like AI, satellite imagery, and drones for precise risk assessment.   The commercial trucking insurance sector faces significant pressures, highlighted by a 235% rise in nuclear verdicts since 2012. Jackson Alexander from Reliance Partners underscores the critical importance of safety and compliance practices to assist motor carriers in mitigating litigation risks, offering dedicated safety teams to help clients enhance their operational metrics.   The discussion transitions to the US property and casualty insurance market, which is grappling with familiar challenges infused with new dynamics as 2026 approaches. According to an ACORD study, insurers need to maintain disciplined underwriting, operational efficiency, and robust distribution partnerships to triumph within a shifting pricing cycle and declining investment returns. Dave Sterner from ACORD emphasizes the necessity of balancing discipline and strategic partnerships for sustained value creation throughout this transitioning economic landscape.   The episode also unveils the forthcoming 2026 Insurtech + AI Demo Day Events by Wells Media Group, an initiative crafted to exhibit cutting-edge AI and technology solutions wit

    15 min

  8. 18/12/2025

    Homeowners Insurance Market Shows Early Signs of Stabilization

    The Connected Podcast - Insurance News & Events The Connected Podcast: Insights into the Insurance Ecosystem Welcome to the latest episode of The Connected Podcast, where we delve into the most recent developments impacting the insurance ecosystem. As highlighted by a detailed report from the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I), the homeowners insurance market is heading toward stabilization, introducing what experts are calling a 'new normal' in risk pricing.   Despite the strain of rising premiums and limited coverage on household budgets, there's optimism on the horizon. Projections suggest that the industry could witness double-digit premium growth by 2025, potentially achieving profitability by 2026. This growth is driven by inflation, increased replacement costs, and ongoing climate-related losses, such as the wildfires in Los Angeles. Notably, a significant improvement is expected in the direct incurred loss ratio by Q2 2025.   The episode also covers a 107.2 net combined ratio projection for 2025, representing a 7.5-point improvement, alongside an expected 11.8% growth in net written premiums. With economic conditions shifting from negative to positive trends, future interest rate cuts could potentially boost housing markets by 2026 or 2027.   In the automotive sector, excitement is brewing with Enlyte’s acquisition of PartsTrader, a leading parts procurement marketplace. This strategic move promises enhanced solutions across the collision claims and repair industries. Enlyte's CEO, Alex Sun, alongside PartsTrader's CEO, Steve Messenger, emphasizes the synergies and innovation that this acquisition will bring, marking it as a path for improved services and industry growth.   The episode highlights the introduction of the ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. Sponsored by Rep. Diana Harshbarger, this legislation aims to establish standardized guidelines for the calibration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in vehicles, specifically targeting models from the year 2028 onwards. This act seeks to clarify the presently ambiguous processes faced by collision repair shops and calibration centers.   Additionally, the episode sheds light on a recent Bain & Company survey revealing the underutilization of generative AI within the property and casualty sector, with only 4% of insurers fully integrating it into claims operations. Despite 78% adoption, a comprehensive AI-driven transformation is still pursued by only 27% of insurers. Bain suggests that such an approach can significantly enhance productivity, speed up claims processing, and reduce settlement cycles.   Innovative strategies like Zywave’s Agentic AI are also explored. This AI strategy introduces a suite of specialized AI agents designed to enhance various insurance operations facets, aiding in prospect identification, lead scoring, data enrichment, and personalized outreach. These tools offer insurance companies an advanced means to boost client interaction and business growth.   As we approach 2026, the discussion centers on transitioning from patching legacy systems to redefining core systems with AI-driven, scalable solutions. This shift marks 2025 as a pivotal year for resetting core strategies, emphasizing the need for cultural changes over mere technological upgrades. Mark Bennett from ACORD Solutions Group highlights the cultural barriers to modernization, an essential step for insurers to tackle global complexities.   The epi

    14 min
See All (471)

About

Co-curated by Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum, The Connected Podcast is a daily scan of all the happenings in the world of Insurance & InsurTech News.

Information

  • Creator
    Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    471
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Connected Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Connected Podcast