Cancer has emerged as the fastest-growing condition in both insurance utilisation and cost across the Asia Pacific region over the past 18 months, according to the "2026 Global Medical Trends Report" by WTW.
A noted lack of confidence in New Zealand in the public health system is behind the shift of individuals to the private sector.
Several factors are complicating accessibility to healthcare, according to a study commissioned by Prudential plc.
Globally, the direct economic cost of Nat CAT in 2025 was estimated at $296bn, below the decadal average of $394bn (2015 to 2024) and most recent five-year average of $409bn. In APAC, the estimated economic losses were $87bn (Asia: $83bn, Oceania: $4bn), according to Guy Carpenter's "Natural Catastrophe and Climate Report", released in January 2026.
Markel Insurance has promoted Mr Phil Amlot to the position of Head of Trade Credit for Markel International.
Lockton has appointed Mr Julian Park as Head of People Solutions, South Korea and Mr Subhash Chandra as Head of Life and Health Reinsurance - People Solutions, Asia.
Composite insurance rates in the fourth quarter of 2025 decreased by 5% in the Asia region, according to the "Global Insurance Market Index' report published by the world's biggest insurance broking group Marsh.
Willis, a WTW business, has appointed Ms Mareli Vermeulen as Head of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), Asia within its Financial and Executive Risks (FINEX) business.
Insurers in the Asia-Pacific region are eyeing a significant shift in their investment strategies. According to new research by FinTech firm Clearwater Analytics, they are planning to increase allocations to private markets and hedge funds from 20% to 33% of portfolios over the next five years. The study surveyed insurance asset management executives overseeing $3.82tn in assets.
Most Asian businesses are planning to accelerate their climate transition over the next three years, according to the report, "HSBC Sustainability Pulse Survey 2025", released by the global financial services group.