Marsh is pleased to share with you our EMEA Insurance Market Report 2012.

2011 was one of the most costly on record, with insured catastrophe losses of more than US$100 billion. Insurance rates continued their upward trajectory for natural catastrophe and supply chain perils, but relatively benevolent market conditions still prevailed in the fourth quarter of 2011 across EMEA. Rate reductions were still achievable for those clients with attractive risks and a good loss history. The previously fierce competition among carriers for the more lucrative books of business has eased and excess capacity is less bountiful.

We anticipate little movement in the EMEA insurance market in the first half of 2012. However, Solvency II -- scheduled to be implemented in 2013 -- and the continuation of the euro crisis may influence the market to harden.

Your Marsh client executive and other members of the client service team welcome the opportunity to discuss with you the Report's insights and their specific implications for your organisation in greater depth. As is the case with all we do, the report is part of our commitment to helping your business thrive.

Read the EMEA Insurance Market Report 2012 [PDF, 3.2MB]

The world's vulnerability to economic shocks and social upheaval has the potential to undermine the progress that globalization has brought, according to "Global Risks 2012," the flagship report from the World Economic Forum's Risk Response Network, published in cooperation with Marsh & McLennan Companies, the parent company of Marsh, and other partners.

Based on a survey of 469 experts and industry leaders, the report finds that chronic fiscal imbalances and severe income disparity are the risks that are rated most likely to occur over the next 10 years, while a systemic financial crisis and food and water shortages are seen to have the highest potential impact over the same period. Compared with a year ago, the results show a shift of concern from environmental risks to socio-economic ones.

Access the report via Marsh.com

Against the backdrop of recent crises and continued economic uncertainty, Risk and the Boardroom Agenda considers some of the key risks that warrant board attention in 2011-2012, proposes some practical steps to be taken in terms of risk response, and provides a focus for organisations on the key issues pertinent in today’s business environment.

Access "Risk and the Boardroom Agenda" [PDF, 4.2MB]

Over the first half of 2011, the insurance market faced natural catastrophes, threats of political instability and legislative changes. This has led to the prospect of significant losses for insurers. As insurers look to recoup some of these liabilities through premium increases, clients face continued financial pressures in a time of ongoing economic uncertainty.

Whilst insurers are pushing for rate increases on almost all classes of business, excess capacity in the market is creating competition. This has enabled brokers to secure renewals as per the expiring premium, or even at a discount. At the same time, clients are looking to reduce their insurance premiums as part of their overall efforts to reduce costs. This is putting additional pressure on their brokers and the wider market.

Access the EMEA Insurance Market Report