Specialty Lines in 2026: Navigating the New Risk Landscape
02/16/2026
As we move through 2026, organisations across all sectors are facing an increasingly complex and interconnected risk environment. Technological acceleration, economic volatility, regulatory reform, geopolitical uncertainty and rising litigation are reshaping exposures for businesses and their leadership teams at unprecedented speed. For insurers and their customers alike, understanding how these forces intersect is now critical to effective risk management and decision-making.
Against this background, the Specialty Lines 2026 Report provides a comprehensive, forward-looking analysis of the key trends shaping the risk landscape as we continue through 2026. Drawing on claims experience, legal developments and market insight. The Report explores how emerging risks are materialising across industries, and what this means in practical terms for our customers.
Click the button below to download the full report.
“As we look ahead to 2026, it’s clear that the risk environment for our clients is becoming more complex, interconnected, and fast moving than ever. In moments like these, the depth of expertise within our Specialty Lines UK Claims team truly sets us apart. I’m delighted to introduce this article, which brings together the sharp insights, forward looking predictions, and practical guidance from our exceptional Financial Lines and Cyber claims handlers. Their experience at the frontline of emerging risks offers a perspective that is both grounded and invaluable. I encourage our customers and broker partners to explore their analysis - it reflects not only the challenges ahead, but the confidence and capability of a team committed to navigating these challenges alongside you. If you’re Interested in hearing more from the team, please look out for our 2026 Breakfast Seminars."
Rosie Wilson, Major Loss Team Leader at Zurich UK.
“As risks shift and intensify, trusted guidance and insight matter more than ever. Our exceptional claims handlers bring the specialist knowledge our market relies on - and their perspective on 2026 and beyond is essential reading.”
William Anderson, Head of UK Specialty Lines Claims.
"2026, if a continuance of 2025 and prior, is set to be another year of rising claims and rising complexity. With increasing regulatory scrutiny, employee concerns around phishing and social engineering, job security pressures, M&A growth and stock market unease, the need to support our Customers and brokers in navigating these challenges has never been clearer. Claims are taking longer and costing more - we urge you to consider and review adequacy of policy limits, does your Insurer have the Claims teams to understand and deliver on your needs and with the rising length of time to resolution are they going to be with you step by step."
Adrian Jenner, Global Head of Financial Lines Underwriting.
What’s inside the report?
- Cyber threats, and notably, the ripple effects of cyber events.
- Risks impacting Directors & Officers, from AI and cyber, to ESG & greenwashing.
- Financial Institutions and developments, such as the Motor Finance Ruling, Private Equity, and Social Engineering and Crime.
- Industry-specific challenges around Professional Indemnity, including those impacting Construction, Lawyers, Accountants, Surveyors, Valuers and Property Managers as well as a focus on AI and Professional Services Firms.
- Strategic imperatives for 2026, outlining how organisations can better balance innovation, governance and resilience.
Look out for details of our 2026 Breakfast Seminars at our London office in Mark Lane.
