Research published by Dun & Bradstreet, a provider of data and analytics for business decisions, shows that the UK insurance industry is moving towards 2026, with a focus on technological advancements and tighter operational risk management.
The firm’s findings show that insurers are focusing on expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) while increasing oversight of third-party relationships, fraud and other external risks. Dun & Bradstreet emphasizes that both of these goals depend heavily on the availability of accurate, well-managed data.
Research shows that 37% of UK insurers see internal AI adoption as a top priority by 2026. An equal proportion of insurance companies see reducing third-party risk as a key focus area. Dun & Bradstreet interprets this alignment as a reflection of insurers seeking growth and efficiency gains while dealing with increased risks associated with suppliers, partners and the broader ecosystem.
Other strategic priorities were mentioned less frequently, with 31% of companies focusing on market expansion and 26% focusing on embedded financial planning and improved decision-making processes.
The study also points to ongoing data-related barriers. Dun & Bradstreet reports that more than half of insurance companies surveyed have experienced unsuccessful AI initiatives due to poor data quality, and only 17% currently operate a unified data platform. The company noted that without improved data governance, integration and accuracy, it may be difficult for insurers to generate sustained returns from AI investments.
Beyond AI, Dun & Bradstreet sees operational risk as a growing concern across the industry. Fragmented systems and legacy infrastructure exacerbate challenges related to fraud, cyber incidents and supply chain disruptions. The company added that regulatory developments, including the EU Artificial Intelligence Act and the Digital Operations Resilience Act (DORA), are raising expectations for transparency, control and accountability.
In this environment, Dun & Bradstreet research found that 76% of respondents cited operational risk, including third-party and supply chain risk, as a top concern. The company concluded that insurers’ ability to integrate, validate and act on timely data is becoming a core component of effective risk management and long-term resilience.
“As we move into 2026, the insurance market is navigating a delicate balance between innovation and risk management,” added Zulf Raja, head of insurance at Dun & Bradstreet. “Businesses are not only exploring artificial intelligence and digital transformation, but are also paying more keen attention to third-party risk, data integrity and economic uncertainty. Successful companies will be those that combine growth ambition with resilience.”
