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10 Insurance Industry Predictions for 2022 - ePayPolicy

The article outlines ten key insurance industry predictions for 2022, highlighting accelerated digital transformation and digital payments adoption due to the pandemic, continued rising insurance rates driven by factors like weather and repair costs, growth in embedded insurance at points of sale, and insurtech companies expanding their focus beyond service and claims to new areas.

As the new year gets underway, trends are emerging in the world of insurance. By understanding what is likely on the horizon, insurance professionals can prepare and adapt to ensure they’re in the best position to thrive.

Here are ten insurance industry predictions for 2022 from industry experts:

1. Digital Transformation Moves Forward

Digital transformation in the insurance industry has historically been slow, but the pandemic made it a necessity. Shelter-in-place orders and social distancing requirements forced rapid adoption of digital tools. Regardless of the segment—carrier, wholesale, MGA, specialty, or retail—teams are now more productive with digital tools that were not available just a few years ago. The pandemic pushed everyone out of their comfort zones, leading to proficiency in virtual meeting platforms and online services that are now here to stay.

2. Increasing Digital Payments

Digital transformation is also changing how customers interact with insurers. Many insureds paid premiums and signed applications electronically for the first time during the pandemic and are expected to continue seeking this convenience. As the industry adapts, secure and convenient digital payment options will become increasingly standard.

3. Rising Rates Will Be the Norm

Rates are expected to continue rising due to factors such as weather-related losses and increased repair costs. Auto and home rates will trend upwards, and commercial and business auto may see significant increases depending on risk type and geography.

4. More Embedded Insurance at Points of Sale

Embedded insurance at the point of sale is growing. Vehicle manufacturers and other industries are adding insurance as a revenue stream to improve financial performance. This trend is expected to expand, offering new opportunities for insurers.

5. Insurtechs Look Beyond Service and Claims

Insurtech companies initially focused on service and claims, but are now expanding to provide agents with tools for marketing and sales. This shift will help agencies grow and retain customers by offering broader capabilities beyond traditional service and claims management.

6. Workers’ Compensation Losses Will Continue to Have an Impact

Pandemic-related workers’ compensation costs were high, with industry estimates ranging from $500-$750 million in claims. Profitability for workers’ compensation will be affected until premium increases take effect.

7. Cyber Re/insurance Prices Will Rise

With increased digitalization comes a higher likelihood of cyber incidents. As a result, prices in the cyber re/insurance market are expected to rise sharply over 2021-2023, potentially even doubling in some cases.

8. Automation Is Becoming Commonplace

AI and machine learning-supported automation are on the rise. Research suggests that more than half of claims activities could be replaced by automation by 2030, streamlining operations and reducing manual workloads.

9. Tech-Savvy Talent Will Be the Key to Growth

Premium growth is expected to continue, making it essential to enhance the customer journey. The need for insurtech solution development and digital transformation has increased, allowing professionals to work remotely and provide customers with a better online experience. However, finding and hiring enough tech-savvy talent will be a significant challenge for the industry in 2022.

10. Insurance Demand Skyrockets

Research indicates that insurance demand is increasing and could break premium records. Positive pricing momentum is expected to continue across all lines and regions, driven by inflation, higher claims development, social inflation in the U.S., and persistently low-interest rates.

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