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Underwriting in a fractured world – risk appetite, geopolitics and the new strategic reality

Panel discussionUnderwriting Club (Forum at Broker Expo)

2025-10-09 | 10:00 AM - 10:40 AM

Information

Underwriting leaders are navigating a fractured global risk landscape shaped by political instability.


ESG scrutiny, regulatory divergence, and fast-moving systemic threats. Geopolitical unrest, war exclusions, supply chain disruptions, and sanctions are forcing a deeper assessment of accumulation risk and treaty exposure. Meanwhile, expectations around portfolio performance, broker servicing, and underwriting control are intensifying. This session will unpack how underwriting directors are re-evaluating risk appetite, adapting governance, and future-proofing their portfolios against unpredictable external forces.


  • What effect is geopolitical volatility, conflicts, sanctions and trade policy having on pricing, appetite and treaty placement?
  • How are underwriting leaders preparing for the next phase of ESG scrutiny, green transition risk, and regulatory divergence across jurisdictions?
  • What internal governance changes are needed to support underwriters making decisions in highly volatile markets?
  • How are reinsurance trends and capital availability influencing decisions around emerging risks, cyber, property catastrophe, and political violence?

Speakers

QBE International

Nick Hankin

QBE International

Chief underwriting officer

Markel

Mark Plews

Markel

Director of underwriting, UK