The heavily interconnected nature of the risk matrix impacting organisations, governments and individuals is clear f
rom both the WEF’s annual Global Risks report and the AXA Future Risks Report.
Shining a spotlight on how the emerging trends among these are shaping the commercial insurance and risk landscape in the early days of 2025, Bill Bradshaw (pictured top right), operations manager, London operations at FM, highlighted three interconnected trends. Firstly, the continued emphasis on climate resilience, secondly the growing demand for solutions tailored to the renewable energy transition, and, thirdly, an evolving understanding of risk management's value beyond pricing.
“These trends may bring challenges, but they also present significant opportunities,” he said. “The renewable energy transition, for example, is driving demand for innovative solutions to protect and support green technologies like solar and wind. This evolution is not just about managing risks but also about enabling businesses to invest confidently in sustainable growth.
“Similarly, as businesses look beyond pricing in their risk management strategies, there’s an opportunity to focus on building resilience, improving operational continuity, and strengthening partnerships that deliver long-term value. By addressing these trends with a forward-looking approach, organisations can turn complexity into a platform for success.”
Bradshaw noted that many of the trends influencing 2025 have their roots in the challenges and priorities of 2024, but they are becoming more pronounced and interconnected. For example, he said, climate resilience remains a key focus.
The increasing frequency and intensity of natural hazards – often exacerbated by climate change – highlights the growing importance of addressing secondary perils. Similarly, he said, the renewable energy transition is an ongoing story, but as green technologies scale rapidly, the need for tailored risk solutions and robust engineering expertise is more critical than ever. These factors demonstrate that while the seeds of these trends were planted in previous years, evolving global pressures are amplifying their significance in 2025.
Looking to the advancing renewable energy protection sector, Bradshaw highlighted that it’s one that’s evolving rapidly, driven by government policy, technological advancements, and the pressing need to transition to sustainable energy sources. “In Europe and the UK, we are seeing strong demand for renewable energy solutions, particularly in solar and wind, with insurers stepping in to support these developments with bespoke coverage and loss prevention measures.”
New innovations in the market are a prime example, providing end-to-end support, from design through to operational risk mitigation. The evolution is positive, Bradshaw said, as it underscores the industry's ability to adapt to changing needs and contribute meaningfully to the global energy transition.
Inflation was a core topic of 2024. It is stabilising steadily and, as such, no longer dominating risk and resilience conversations. Bradshaw noted that this means businesses can shift their attention to the broader benefits of partnership with an insurer and the value it brings. This includes prioritising contract certainty, proactive loss prevention, and smooth claims handling, which together can enhance operational resilience.
“In an era of frequent natural catastrophes and regulatory changes, businesses need partners that offer not only coverage but also the insights and tools to prepare for and mitigate potential risks,” she said. “Insurance plays a critical role in aligning resilience strategies with long-term business goals, ensuring organisations remain competitive and sustainable in a complex environment.”
What is clear, Bradshaw said, is that recognition of the role risk management plays in navigating emerging risks is under increasing scrutiny. As the frequency of natural hazards increases and climate-related risks dominate the global agenda, businesses are under pressure to demonstrate robust risk management strategies.
“Regulatory scrutiny, particularly in areas such as climate reporting, further amplifies this focus,” he said. “Risk management is no longer seen as a back-office function but as a strategic imperative that contributes to resilience and long-term value creation.
“This understanding brings with it greater focus on risk management and whether it is effective regarding managing and mitigating risks. Stakeholders, from boards to investors, are demanding greater accountability, pushing businesses to prioritise proactive approaches that integrate engineering, analytics, and tailored risk solutions.”
As to what clients and partners want from their risk management and insurance partners in 2025, Bradshaw emphasised that they expect a collaborative and proactive approach. They want tailored solutions that address their unique challenges, he said, such as compliance with evolving climate regulations and the complexities of renewable energy projects.
“Transparent communication and a commitment to innovation are also highly valued,” he said. “Beyond coverage, businesses look for partners that can provide actionable insights, foster resilience, and enable them to navigate a rapidly changing risk environment with confidence. The ability to adapt to their needs and offer consistent, high-quality service is central to building long-term partnerships.”
