Reinsurance Market Stabilizes Amid Rising Global Capacity

2

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

"The current scenario represents a well-balanced alignment of demand and supply, with reinsurers showing increased willingness to commit their extensive capital," noted Tom Wakefield, CEO of Gallagher Re.

Across the Australasian region, the market exhibited less fluctuation in property catastrophe quotes compared to last year, indicative of achieving sustainable long-term pricing. According to Gallagher Re, prices remained relatively stable with select cases experiencing risk-adjusted reductions on higher layers.

The latest statistics reveal Australian catastrophe reinsurance rates for properties without previous losses fell between 0-10%, whereas those hit by losses saw increases of 5-10%. Casualty sectors, meanwhile, displayed steadiness, backed by robust perceived price appropriateness.

Tony Gallagher, CEO of Guy Carpenter Asia-Pacific, highlighted a 4% rise in regional demand against a 10% surge in supply, resulting in a softening of market dynamics. "In Asia-Pacific, first-half renewals smoothly transitioned with rate reductions noted in non-loss-impacted programs," he explained. "We also observed a stabilization of terms, conditions, and structures, with minor modifications driven by policyholders."

Guy Carpenter’s analysis corroborates that most property placements were finalized early or on schedule in an evolving market context. Global property catastrophe rates, when adjusted for risk, displayed flat to modest declines mid to high single digits; particularly in upper layers, some instances fell over 10% for non-loss-impacted profiles, suggesting a "moderating yet robust" pricing sphere.

Reflecting on prior challenges, Aon emphasized that the recent renewal season in Australia and New Zealand saw a return to stability. Comparatively low natural disaster losses over the preceding year set the stage for outcomes characterized by predictability, with reinsurers actively showing interest in regional catastrophe risks.

Significant insured loss events, such as the Christmas and New Year storms and Cyclone Jasper, primarily impacted insurers due to higher net retentions from last year’s renewals, leading to more conservative losses for reinsurers.

"While there is increasing support for lower-layer placements, reliance on traditional aggregate reinsurance remains limited," observed Aon. "Nonetheless, discussions regarding alternative solutions have gained momentum."

A notable development, the cyclone reinsurance pool, swayed demand by reducing property catastrophe reinsurance needs by roughly $3-$4 billion last year. Large insurers had integrated the pool by December end, with smaller insurers expected to follow suit by year-end.

Aon concluded, "The integration of the cyclone pool into catastrophic programs reflects a mature understanding and acceptance within the market."

Published:Thursday, 4th Jul 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

ASIC Initiates Legal Proceedings Against Australian Super for Claim Delays

10 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal action against Australian Super, the nation's largest superannuation fund, alleging significant delays in processing nearly 7,000 death benefit claims. These delays, some extending up to four years, have raised serious concerns about the efficiency and fairness of the fund's claims handling processes. - read more

Australian Insurers Face Challenges in Risk Preparedness

10 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent findings from PwC's Insurance Banana Skins Survey indicate that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in preparedness for emerging risks, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). - read more

Insurance News to Host Third Annual Conference in Sydney

10 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Insurance News has announced its third annual conference, scheduled to take place in Sydney on March 19, 2026. This full-day event aims to provide attendees with comprehensive insights into current market trends, industry pressures, and emerging opportunities within the insurance sector. - read more

Rising Home Insurance Costs Amid Climate Change Concerns

10 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Australians are facing escalating home insurance premiums, with climate change playing a significant role in this upward trend. Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has highlighted that the increasing frequency and severity of weather events are contributing to higher costs for homeowners. - read more

Rural Affinity and Munich Re Strengthen Agricultural Insurance in Australia

09 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for Australia's agricultural sector, Rural Affinity has renewed its partnership with Munich Re Specialty - Global Markets under a new five-year agreement. This collaboration, which began in 2006, is set to enhance the availability and scope of agricultural insurance products across the country. - read more

Click for more Insurance News