Global commercial insurance rates flat in Q2, ending 26 consecutive quarter streak of increasing rates

Dubai, July 29, 2024 – According to the Global Insurance Market Index released by Marsh, the world’s leading insurance broker and risk advisor and a business of Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC), global commercial insurance rates were flat in the second quarter of 2024 (down from a 1% increase in Q1 2024).

The findings mark the first time in nearly seven years – since the third quarter of 2017 – that the global composite rate has not increased. The continued moderation of rates was largely driven by increasing competition among insurers in the global property market.

On average, rates decreased in Canada and the Pacific by 5%, and in the UK and in Asia regions by 3%. Rates increased in the US and Europe by 1%, and in the Latin America and the Caribbean and India, Middle East, and Africa (IMEA) regions by 4%.

Other findings included:

• Property insurance rates globally were flat compared to 3% and 6% average increases in Q1 2024 and Q4 2023, and either declined or moderated in every region except IMEA. Property insurers and owners alike are closely watching the Atlantic hurricane season to see if any substantial storm activity might significantly impact their business.
• Casualty lines rates increased 3% globally, the same as the previous six quarters; Canada and Asia showed decreases while the UK and IMEA were flat. Insurers remain concerned with large jury awards in US courts.  
• Financial and professional lines rates decreased for the eighth consecutive quarter – by 5% globally – with rate decreases recorded in every region. In the US, UK, Canada, and Europe, the rates decelerated as compared to the previous quarter, while accelerated in other regions.
• Cyber insurance rates decreased 6% globally – repeating the 6% decrease recorded in the prior quarter – with decreases in every region. Insurers continued to focus on cybersecurity controls, typically looking for year-over-year improvements in cyber resilience. 

Commenting on the report, Pat Donnelly, President, Marsh Specialty and Global Placement, Marsh, said “We have seen the continued moderation of the global composite rate over the past few years, with a stable composite in Q2 2024, which is a positive movement for our clients. As there remains rate increases in some lines, we see significant opportunities to help clients navigate the complexity they're facing today and support their risk financing decisions.”