Brown & Brown, Inc., an insurance brokerage and risk management services company, has released its 2026 Market Trends Report, which provides a detailed assessment of developments across the insurance landscape, noting that rate conditions in multiple areas are beginning to move in a direction more favorable to buyers who have carefully prepared for renewals and maintained strong claims performance.
At the same time, the report also identifies industries and product lines where pricing is expected to remain elevated and underwriting standards are more stringent.
The 2026 edition is Brown & Brown’s first release since its 2025 acquisition of Risk Strategies. The report draws on the combined experience of experts from both organizations to analyze the impact on the commercial insurance, employee benefits and personal insurance markets and considerations for organizations planning for the year ahead.
“The dynamism of today’s insurance market and the changing economics of customer management make this insight invaluable for planning,” commented Steve Hearn, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and President of the Retail Division. “I am excited to see how the combined expertise of Brown & Brown and Risk Strategies deepens our ability to gain insights into the factors shaping risk and liability markets.”
Although the overall market volume has increased, the report points out that there are significant differences in the situation of different market segments. In commercial insurance, intense competition among carriers is creating opportunities for well-managed risk. However, large-scale loss events, including wildfires and cyber incidents, continue to impact underwriting decisions and pricing. Certain industries, such as transportation and hospitality, as well as organizations operating in disaster-prone areas, may encounter more restrictive terms.
In the employee benefits world, employers are looking for ways to address cost pressures without reducing the relevance or quality of coverage. The widespread adoption of digital health tools, including virtual care solutions and platforms that promote cost transparency, reflects this focus. At the same time, maintaining benefits programs that support employee engagement and retention remains a top priority.
The personal insurance market is being impacted by climate-related volatility, increased claims severity, regulatory developments and changing carrier strategies. These factors emphasize the importance of detailed risk information and proactive management. While underwriting conditions are beginning to stabilize in some areas and capacity is being selectively expanded, properties at risk from wildfires and severe convective storms still face tighter requirements and continued pricing pressure.
The company said the report is designed to provide practical insights for businesses, employers and individuals to evaluate insurance decisions in complex operating environments. Brown & Brown said its national scale, international reach and expertise enable it to support clients amid changing market conditions.