Strong returns in reinsurance sector attracts capital, leading to favorable client outcomes
Global volatility persists but elevated insured loss activity seen in the first quarter moderated New York, NY (July 1, 2025) – According to Guy Carpenter, a leading global risk and reinsurance specialist and a business of Marsh McLennan, despite global economic volatility and insured loss activity nearing $70 billion through the first half of 2025, reinsurance renewal trends seen at January 1 continued, including: Strong reinsurer balance sheets driving appetite for growth; Excess property capacity and moderating pricing; Disciplined casualty underwriting; Reinsurer focus on holistic client relationships to grow their portfolios. Insured loss activity in the second quarter levelled off from the elevated first quarter. Losses for the first half of 2025 are now flat compared to the inflation-adjusted five-year average. The Los Angeles wildfires account for $40 billion in insured losses or 59% of activity in the first half of 2025. For reinsurers, the wildfires are not expected to impair capital or appetite for the remainder of the year. Despite loss activity in the first quarter, strong reinsurer performance is expected to continue in 2025. Reinsurer returns on equity were 16% in 2024 and are projected to be 15% in 2025. Reinsurance capital closed 2024 at an all-time high...