The Connected Podcast

Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum
  • 5.0 (2)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED DAILY

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. 14H AGO

    FTC Says GM And OnStar Were Watching and Selling Your Data

    The Connected Podcast: Insurance News and Events The Connected Podcast Exploring Today's Pivotal Insurance Ecosystem Trends In this episode of The Connected Podcast, the discussion centers on pivotal changes within the insurance ecosystem, emphasizing recent developments that could alter industry practices. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has imposed a landmark 20-year order against General Motors and OnStar over allegations of secretly collecting and monetizing driving data from consumers without appropriate consent. This has resulted in increased insurance premiums for vehicle owners, highlighting urgent questions about data privacy and transparency.   The segment also delves into legislative efforts aimed at regulating vehicle data access, with calls for new laws to ensure consumer control over data generated by vehicles. Richard Ward III from the American Vehicle Owners Alliance stresses the need for owner consent in data access, pointing to the ongoing debate between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and vehicle owners over data rights.   Florida's proposed Senate Bill 522 is another focal point, as it seeks to overhaul the state's no-fault auto insurance system by eliminating mandatory personal injury protection (PIP) coverage and setting minimum liability limits. This legislative change could significantly impact Florida's insurance landscape, addressing rising costs and litigation complexities.   Additionally, the episode addresses the growing issue of negative equity in the auto loan market, with 30% of late 2025 trade-ins involving negative equity, thus exacerbating consumers' financial challenges as debt cycles deepen.   Collectively, these developments highlight the evolving nature of the insurance and automotive sectors and the intertwined roles of regulation, consumer rights, and financial dynamics in reshaping industry relationships.   Insights from the Insurance Ecosystem This segment of The Connected Podcast explores the latest developments in the insurance ecosystem, focusing on insights from Hippo's fourth annual Housepower Report and advancements in AI technology within the industry. Hippo's report highlights how homeowners are navigating affordability, maintenance, and protection amid rising costs and climate risks. Notably, homeowner sentiment has improved from the pandemic peak, with fewer homebuyers expressing regret and more focusing on long-term residence plans.   Affordability and location remain critical factors for home selection, emphasizing the need for strategic maintenance and protection plans as buyers manage older homes. Additionally, the segment discusses Travelers' strategic partnership with Anthropic to enhance AI capabilities. By deploying AI assistants to nearly 10,000 employees within its TravAI platform, Travelers aims to boost efficiency and innovation in software development, analytics, and machine learning, while supporting role-specific tasks. This initiative reflects a commitment to AI-driven productivity and customer experience enhancement, aligned with their Responsible AI Framework.   Finally, the podcast examines the broader implications of generative AI in insurance. Generative AI holds potential for transforming document-heavy processes and complex data interpretation across life, property, casualty, and health insurance sectors. By integrating these technologies into workflows, the industry can enhance eff

    13 min

  2. 1D AGO

    Collision Engineering Career Alliance Appoints Mary Mahoney as President

    In this episode of The Connected Podcast, we dive deep into the significant events shaping the constantly evolving insurance ecosystem.   Spotlight on Mary Mahoney: After an illustrious 40-year career in Enterprise Mobility, Mary Mahoney transitions to lead the Collision Engineering Career Alliance as president. Her mission is to advance collision repair by developing skilled talent, staying ahead of evolving vehicle technology. Mahoney emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships essential for industry growth, viewing her new role as a crucial step in securing the future of collision repair.   Florida's Insurance Sector Reforms: Promising developments surface in Florida as Governor Ron DeSantis announces an average premium reduction of 8.7% for Citizens Property Insurance Corporation policyholders, effective spring 2026. This change is part of broader tort reforms aimed at reducing litigation costs for insurers. Additionally, the introduction of 17 new insurers to the market provides homeowners with more coverage options, marking a positive move towards market stability.   Aon's Strategic Expansion: Aon has announced an expansion of its Data Centre Lifecycle Insurance Program by US$1 billion, totaling US$2.5 billion. This strategic move addresses the growing demand in cloud computing and AI, integrating various risks associated with data centre projects, with a focus on resilience and supporting innovation and economic growth.   US Property and Casualty Insurance Trends: As 2025 begins, the US property and casualty insurance sector faces challenges from catastrophic events like California wildfires and severe storms. Yet, by the third quarter, the industry shows resilience. Homeowners and private passenger auto sectors see improvements in loss ratios and increased net underwriting income, reflecting stability driven by efforts for rate adequacy. Nonetheless, general liability lines see divergent outcomes, highlighting a complex environment influenced by factors beyond just premium growth.   Innovation Trends: The podcast also explores innovation trends, noting the cautious rise of AI agents and their potential reputational risks, as well as the impact of the Internet of Things and the Predict and Prevent model on risk monitoring. The discussions delve into embedded and parametric insurance models offering new opportunities and the transformative breakthrough of autonomous vehicles on underwriting dynamics.   Insurance Industry Challenges: The Allianz Risk Barometer for 2026 underscores AI’s transformative role yet the associated complexities involving operations, legalities, and reputation. Political instability further complicates the industry’s risk landscape. Simultaneously, there's a push for innovation, improving customer engagement and value through strategic transformations.   Telematics and Predictive Approaches: The acceptance of telematics in auto insurance grows, with increasing favorability toward telematics apps leading to usage-based insurance and personalized pricing. Insurers shift from reactive to proactive Predict & Prevent approaches in response to climate change and inflation, challenging traditional indemnity models.   Key Lawsuit Spotlight: A look at a critical lawsuit involving a West Virginia couple against Liberty Mutual and tech vendors, claiming manipulation to underpay insurance claims after a tornado. Alleged tactics of downplaying vehicle damage and quick settlements highlight discrepancies in claims management. The industry watches closely, anticipating impacts on future claims standards.   Acquisition and Market T

    14 min

  3. 2D AGO

    Many Auto Insurers Slashing Rates as Claims Drop

    The Connected Podcast: News and Events in the Insurance EcosystemThe Connected Podcast: News and Events in the Insurance Ecosystem In this episode of The Connected Podcast, we dive deep into the latest news from the U.S. insurance industry, revealing surprising trends and important developments.   Nationwide, vehicle insurance rates are taking a turn that contradicts previous expert forecasts, as rates decrease rather than rise. This new trend, attributed to insurer strategies to recover from previous losses during the challenging post-pandemic period, brings relief to drivers. Highlighting this shift, Progressive Insurance in Louisiana has approved rate decreases, marking a significant regional development. Meanwhile, in New York, Governor Kathy Hochul is tackling high auto insurance costs by addressing fraud and legal loopholes that lead to inflated premiums. This initiative is set to ease financial burdens and improve affordability for drivers in the state. In California, the insurance market presents its own set of challenges. The California FAIR Plan is rapidly expanding to provide coverage options for those previously locked out of standard home insurance. However, while some insurers are seeking rate increases, Mercury Insurance goes against the grain, bolstering its presence in the market, thereby illustrating the complexity of California's insurance landscape. Industry experts further discuss the shifts leading up to 2026, where geopolitical unrest, climate change, AI advancements, and cyber threats underscore the need for industry-wide adaptability. Tom Hughes from the International Underwriting Association emphasizes disciplined client service as key to navigating these pervasive issues. Martin Burke from MS Amlin underscores the risks associated with insurers branching into unfamiliar areas during soft markets. He advocates a strong focus on core competencies and precise risk selection to maintain profitability, cautioning against complacency in the face of evolving risks within catastrophe-exposed lines, despite rate reductions. Technological advancements continue to transform the insurance industry, highlighted by the launch of Nevado AI. CEO Sharon Rodriguez promotes its AI-native platform designed to overcome traditional system limitations, streamlining operations and enhancing strategic innovation across the sector. In corporate news, Insight Service Group has appointed Seth Ingall to the Board of Directors, leveraging his extensive experience from GEICO to expand their technology-driven solutions. Additionally, PCMI, following strategic moves by Thoma Bravo, has named Clyde Owen as their new CEO to enhance platform investments and operational efficiency. In a related discussion, Patrick Sullivan, editor of the Auto Insurance Report, outlines the evolving landscape of the auto insurance industry. Post-2026, auto insurers witness a return to profitability, yet the technological complexity of modern vehicles continues to challenge traditional insurance operations. Sullivan's insights emphasize the necessity for adapting to digital consumer behaviors, offering crucial guidance for navigating the industry's future. Tune in to The Connected Podcast to stay informed on the pivotal changes and emerging opportunities within the insurance ecosystem, and discover how experts recommend navigating this dynamic landscape through innovation and strategic insights.   Links: Many auto insurers slashing rates as claims drop Money in Your Pockets: Governor Hochul Proposes Measures to Bring Down Crus

    11 min

  4. 3D AGO

    Property Insurance Rates Slide as Cat Losses Diminish

    Welcome to The Connected Podcast, your premier destination for in-depth coverage of the latest news and events shaping the ever-evolving insurance ecosystem. In our most recent episode, we delve into the transformative landscape of commercial property insurance, where year-end renewals saw an exciting shift towards intense competition, resulting in double-digit rate decreases for buyers. This favorable market environment is driven by surplus market capacity and fewer-than-anticipated catastrophe losses, even accounting for the early wildfires in California. The mild hurricane season invited an influx of new capital, prompting insurers to expand their property portfolios and enhance competitive conditions.   The episode continues with insights into the January 1st reinsurance renewals, with insurers basking in rate reductions averaging up to 20% on catastrophe programs. Vincent Flood, Aon's property practice leader, notes an average 12.5% rate reduction, setting the stage for continued favorable conditions unless profitability in the property line is affected. New market entrants, especially from Bermuda, add to catastrophe capacity, encouraging further market softening and anticipated rate reductions of 10% to 15%.   We then shift our focus to Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis has announced imminent insurance rate relief for homeowners. Starting Spring 2026, Citizens Property Insurance policyholders will enjoy premium reductions, thanks to comprehensive reforms that have stabilized the previously troubled market. These efforts, spearheaded by Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, target inefficiencies like fraud and waste, reinforcing Florida’s insurance sector—the success of which is applauded by Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky.   The episode also explores legislative initiatives in California balancing innovation and policyholder protection. Assemblymember Lisa Calderon’s bill aims to regulate insurers’ use of aerial imagery for property assessments, necessitating notification to homeowners before assessing risks. The proposal urges transparency and prevents cancellations based on outdated images, addressing the ongoing insurance crisis.   As the conversation continues, the podcast highlights CyberCube's projection of an approaching "AI disillusionment" era by 2026. While initial enthusiasm for AI may face obstacles like antiquated systems and stringent regulations, organizations integrating AI strategically will harness it as a disruptive force across cyber risk management and underwriting.   Additionally, the spotlight is on Lemonade, a digital-first insurer, whose shares surged by 8.3% following positive analyst appraisals. Lemonade's innovative strategies and robust quarterly results have inspired investor confidence, driving shares to a 52-week peak.   An examination of the property and casualty insurance domain reveals AI and remote work fostering improved expense ratios. Analyses by AM Best and Morgan Stanley document declining expense ratios over the past decade, with projections for continual reductions by 2030, significantly aided by remote work's impact on rent expenses.   Attention is also given to escalating class-action settlements, exceeding $70 billion among the top 10 cases in 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year surpassing $40 billion. This phenomenon underscores class-action lawsuits' growing financial impact.   Lastly, the podcast ventures into the auto lending sector, where rising vehicle prices and borrowing costs present challenges. Companies like Earnix emphasize data-driven analytics, advocating for evidence-based pricing to maintain competitiveness and protect margins.   In another segment, we peer into the future of the property and casualty insurance industry as we

    12 min

  5. 4D AGO

    CES Las Vegas 2026 Wrap Up: SmartHome & AI

    The Connected Podcast: Navigating the Dynamic Insurance Ecosystem The Connected Podcast Navigating the Dynamic Insurance Ecosystem In this segment of The Connected Podcast, we delve into the ever-evolving landscape of the insurance ecosystem, spotlighting the latest news, trends, and legislative changes. Our exploration begins at the CES, where groundbreaking advancements in smart home technology promise enhanced daily life integration. Innovations like automated blinds and self-charging locks are set to redefine accessibility and user-friendliness in homes.   Moving forward, we address the surge of robotics and AI showcased at CES. Key players like Nvidia and Intel are spearheading AI technological advancements, which could dramatically impact insurance policies. As AI technologies permeate industries, the implications for underwriting practices become increasingly critical for insurers.   The episode then transitions to employment shifts within the insurance sector. Insights from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal a decrease in claims adjusting jobs and a rise in positions among pharmacy benefit managers and third-party administrators. This reorganization hints at underlying technological and market dynamics driving industry changes.   On the legislative front, discussions turn to California's Senate Bill 876, aimed at enhancing disaster recovery efforts. Spearheaded by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and Senator Steve Padilla, the bill seeks to bolster insurer accountability during disasters, tightening requirements and imposing stricter penalties for unfair practices.   The segment wraps up with a success narrative of Progressive's impressive growth, reporting $63.7 billion in net premiums written in the first nine months of 2025—a 13% increase year-over-year. With 38.1 million policies, Progressive sets a benchmark for leadership in the U.S. auto insurance market.   Key Developments in the Insurance Ecosystem In the latest segment, we analyze CNA Financial's strong earnings report for the third quarter of 2025. With a net income of $403 million and a record core income rise of 40% to $409 million, CNA Financial's robust Property & Casualty segments underscore the results. The report highlights decreased catastrophe losses, increased net investment income, and an improved P&C combined ratio of 92.8%, along with a cash dividend of $0.46 per share for shareholders.   We explore broader industry insights from S&P Global Market Intelligence, forecasting robust underwriting results for 2025 in the U.S. property/casualty insurance sector due to improvements in private passenger auto outcomes. While optimism prevails, potential challenges could impact future conditions with a projected combined ratio of 96.2 for 2025.   Flood risk emerges as a significant global threat, with a $255 billion flood protection gap leading to massive economic losses far exceeding insured amounts. The episode emphasizes innovative solutions like parametric insurance, addressing increasing flood threats across regions like the U.K. and the U.S.   Artificial Intelligence and Legal Perspectives The podcast highlights AI's evolving role in the industry, drawing insights from Goldman Sachs Asset Management's 13th annual Global Insurance Survey. While AI implementation stands at 29% with further explorations underway, its allure lies in efficiency and decision-making enhancements. AI is utilized by 73% of companies to cut operational costs and by 39% in underw

    12 min

  6. JAN 9

    P&C Market Enters Correction Phase With Significant Rate Relief

    The Connected Podcast: Latest News & Events in the Insurance Ecosystem The Connected Podcast: Latest News & Events in the Insurance Ecosystem In this episode of The Connected Podcast, we delve into the evolving landscape of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market as we approach 2026. The market is witnessing a split dynamic: while property insurance rates are softening due to increased reinsurance capital and a calmer hurricane season in 2025, creating favorable opportunities for commercial insurance buyers, the casualty lines face pressure from social inflation and emerging risks, adding complexity to the market.   A noteworthy development is the substantial decrease in the number of policies with Citizens Property Insurance Corp. This is a result of the successful "depopulation" program that transitions policies to the private market, bolstered by a 2022 law aimed at reducing litigation costs. Optimism for profitable growth in 2026 is high, with a projected combined ratio of 96-97% and expectations of a stable homeowner market.   The industry continues to embrace AI, investing in technologies to enhance pre-binding, underwriting, and claims processes. Reflecting on last year's global catastrophe losses, the podcast suggests better preparedness for future challenges through improved risk models. Listeners are encouraged to watch trends such as varying commercial rates, rising car loan payments, and a shift in financial burden to consumers through higher deductibles, signaling an evolving and potentially prosperous future for the insurance sector.   The discussion continues with significant issues and innovations currently impacting the industry. The episode starts with an exploration of California's challenges in assessing wildfire risk, especially highlighted by last year's Palisades and Eaton fires. A recent analysis using ZestyAI's Z-FIRE™ model reveals discrepancies in risk assessments, identifying around $1 trillion in at-risk residential properties categorized as low or no risk by federal standards. This gap highlights the urgency for insurers to refine their risk management and underwriting processes.   The conversation also acknowledges the critical role of communication in customer retention within the insurance market. Clear and consistent communication is essential for maintaining policyholder loyalty, as emphasized by Eileen Potter from Smart Communications. Insurers are encouraged to prioritize transparent and effective interactions to prevent customer frustration and potential churn.   Furthermore, the episode touches on technological advancements in the automotive sector, with Mercedes-Benz introducing its Drive Pilot system in California and Nevada. This development marks a shift towards more automated driving experiences, posing new considerations for insurers as they navigate emerging risks and opportunities.   In a recent exploration, the evolving landscape of insurance is further examined through a Vertafore survey and industry developments. As of 2026, consumers are balancing digital tools with human agents. Despite digital advancements, nearly 90% of policyholders value an agent's involvement, especially for policy management and shopping, with 83% expecting a reply within one business day.   Industry news includes Jewelers Mutual's acquisition of EventGuard, expanding into event insurance via an AI-driven platform, and Xceedance’s acquisition of Marble Box, enhancing broker support services through AI inte

    13 min

  7. JAN 8

    U.S. Business Leaders Signal Optimism and Growth Plans for 2026 Despite Economic Uncertainty

    Welcome to The Connected Podcast, where we delve into the latest news and events shaping the insurance ecosystem. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the optimism among U.S. businesses as highlighted by JPMorgan Chase's Business Leaders Outlook survey. Despite past economic and geopolitical challenges, middle market companies are seizing growth opportunities, leveraging emerging technologies and nurturing strategic partnerships as they look towards 2026. Meanwhile, small businesses are balancing domestic issues like inflation with a seemingly lesser concern over regulatory uncertainties.   The U.S. property and casualty insurance sector is demonstrating remarkable resilience, as noted over the past decade. AM Best reports improved underwriting results and a significant drop in the combined ratio by 2024. Insurers have been adept at adjusting premium adequacy to offset rising claim costs, with personal lines insurers reaping substantial benefits.   On a global scale, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. ascends as the largest nonbanking insurer by assets, surpassing Allianz SE, while UnitedHealth Group Inc. maintains its position in net premiums written. These shifts signify a dynamic global insurance landscape, molded by economic conditions and currency valuations.   The collision repair sector witnesses strategic shifts as Incline Equity Partners divests Certified Collision Group (CCG) to The Riverside Company. Since 2014, CCG's growth across North America, capitalizing on vendor partnerships and preferred insurance programs, exemplifies industry-wide trends of collaborative expansion and innovation.   Rising home insurance rates are at the forefront as we approach 2026, with Insurify's survey revealing that 59% of homeowners faced premium hikes. Many are resorting to curbing expenses, delaying repairs, and incurring debt. Although average annual costs surged to $3,017 by 2025, a surprising 28% of homeowners would consider dropping their insurance if possible, despite financial risks.   In California, new legislative efforts spearheaded by Senator Sasha Perez and Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara aim to enhance accountability and transparency in claim processes, particularly for wildfire survivors. The rapid $22.4 billion payout for recent wildfires underlines a collective resolve to fortify recovery methods and insurance ecosystem trust.   Technological advancements showcased at CES 2026 are reshaping insurance dynamics, notably through innovations like the Teradar Summit sensor. This breakthrough enhances vehicle ADAS and autonomy, influencing risk assessment and pricing. The convergence of AI with tangible sectors is revolutionizing predictive analytics and liability considerations.   The shift toward dealership experiences with embedded insurance is gaining momentum, simplifying car sales and boosting financial outcomes. Concurrently, Roots' Document Indexing AI Agent augments claims processing, ushering in greater efficiency and customer-centric approaches in the insurance industry.   In the automotive sector, Agero's strategic enhancement by appointing Tom Feeney, a proven growth leader, to its board signals a commitment to revolutionizing roadside assistance with technology-driven innovations.   CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc.'s launch of the OEM Link Network, with Nissan's collaboration, aims to streamline Nissan's Certified Collision Repair Network across approximately 2,000 U.S. facilities. This partnership is pivotal in managing modern vehicle complexities and optimizing repair shop operations.   Join us in this episode of The Connected Podcast as we navigate these pivotal developments, exploring how technology and strategic partnerships are redefining insurance practices and indus

    14 min

  8. JAN 7

    One Year Later: Consequences of the Los Angeles Area Wildfires for the Insurance Sector

    In this episode of The Connected Podcast, we dive into the evolving landscape of the California property and casualty insurance sector, particularly in the aftermath of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. This catastrophic event highlighted both the resilience and vulnerabilities within the industry. Despite an overall recovery facilitated by increased premiums and fewer catastrophe losses elsewhere, the industry was significantly impacted. State Farm General Insurance Company, in particular, faced financial difficulties, reporting losses of $7.6 billion. The California FAIR Plan emerged as a crucial buffer, receiving substantial industry support, yet its $696 billion exposure underscores the urgent need for better risk pricing and sustainable reform.   Looking ahead to 2026, optimism fills the air as analysts predict a return to profitable growth, with expectations of stabilization even in historically volatile markets like homeowners insurance. This positive outlook is bolstered by major insurers investing heavily in artificial intelligence to enhance processes such as underwriting and claims analysis. However, despite these advancements, the unpredictability of natural disasters continues to pose significant challenges, though the industry has shown improved preparedness for future catastrophes.   Vibrant merger and acquisition activity, coupled with a thriving insurtech funding landscape, signals dynamic growth and transformation within the industry. With over $1 billion in quarterly investments, the focus on early-stage ventures points to innovative shifts ahead. As the sector adapts, strategic foresight remains crucial in navigating both uncertainties and opportunities on the horizon.   In another segment of the episode, we explore current developments within the insurance industry, beginning with recruitment challenges. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts just a 3% increase in financial services jobs by 2034, highlighting a significant talent gap. The upcoming retirements of experienced professionals exacerbate this issue. The 2025 Independent Insurance Agent Survey reveals that 81% of respondents are worried about workforce challenges. Christopher Orr from Korn Ferry provides insights, emphasizing that AI is influencing talent acquisition while emerging technologies demand skilled leaders and professionals, reshaping roles rather than eliminating them.   The episode also discusses the global property and casualty sector, where Moody's maintains a stable outlook for 2026. This optimism is founded on solid profitability and robust capitalization, with pricing increases enhancing profit margins in personal motor and homeowners insurance. Though there are some declines in pricing for commercial lines, rates remain adequate for profitability.   Our discussion covers a major leadership shift at Berkshire Hathaway, as Warren Buffett passes the leadership mantle to Greg Abel. Despite slight stock declines on Buffett's final day as CEO, his legacy endures, as reflected in Berkshire's extraordinary returns and a massive cash reserve. Abel is now tasked with steering this powerful conglomerate into its next chapter.   We also highlight recent advancements in the insurance ecosystem, focusing on technology and market trends. The Hartford has opened a new technology hub in Columbus, Ohio, aimed at advancing innovation through artificial intelligence and cloud architecture. Chief Information Officer Shekar Pannala emphasizes that the hub will foster collaboration and talent cultivation to develop future-ready insurance solutions.   Additionally, insights from the Swiss Re Institute and Alera Group indicate steady growth for the property and casualty insurance market through 2025 to 2026, with increasing competition resulting in varied pricing dynamics acro

    14 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

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
    480
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Connected Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Connected Podcast