Insurers pivot AI strategy toward core risk underwriting
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Insurers are shifting their AI strategy to focus on core risk underwriting, generating tangible business value beyond efficiency. The 2026 Evident AI Index found that insurers are embedding AI into workflows that influence underwriting and capital allocation. The industry has seen a 32% expansion in AI-specialist headcount, with AI specialists now representing one in every 50 employees. Nearly 40% of insurers have designated a senior leader responsible for AI, and the adoption of agentic AI has surged. Insurers like Zurich are deploying modular generative AI platforms, integrating AI into underwriting, claims, and service operations, and achieving significant growth.
💡 Why It Matters
- · The shift to core risk underwriting enables insurers to improve fraud detection and risk selection, producing a disproportionate financial impact.
- · Publicly reporting AI-driven value, as led by firms like Manulife and Generali, sets a new standard for transparency and accountability in AI investments.