U.S. commercial insurance prices increase again in the third quarter

Rhea-AI Summary

Willis Towers Watson reports that U.S. commercial insurance prices increased by just over 7% in Q3 2021, a slight moderation from nearly 8% in the previous two quarters. This data was released in the company's Commercial Lines Insurance Pricing Survey. Most lines, particularly professional liability, reported significant price increases; however, workers' compensation prices saw a slight decrease.

Positive

• Commercial insurance prices rose 7% in Q3 2021, demonstrating ongoing market strength.
• Professional liability showed the largest price increase among various insurance lines.

Negative

• Price increases have moderated compared to the previous quarters, indicating potential market cooling.
• Workers' compensation is experiencing a price reduction, contrasting with trends in other lines.

Aggregate price change reported was just above 7%

ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 08, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- U.S. commercial insurance prices grew again in the third quarter of 2021, according to Willis Towers Watson’s latest Commercial Lines Insurance Pricing Survey (CLIPS). The survey compared prices charged on policies underwritten during the third quarter of 2021 to those charged for the same coverage during the same quarter in 2020. The aggregate commercial price change reported by carriers was just above 7% in the third quarter of 2021 after being just below 8% in the first and second quarters.*

Data for nearly all lines continue to indicate significant price increases in the third quarter. Professional liability, which had been significantly accelerating over the previous seven quarters, showed the largest increase. Excess/umbrella liability and directors’ and officers’ liability reported significant price increases, though lower than those in the second quarter of 2021. Though the decreases have tempered somewhat, CLIPS continues to indicate a slight price reduction for workers compensation, in contrast with nearly all other surveyed lines. When comparing account sizes, reported price changes were all below double digits except for specialty lines.

“The aggregate price increases continue to be strong in the third quarter, though slightly lower than the previous quarter, and the rate of price increases has moderated for most lines,” said Yi Jing, director, Insurance Consulting and Technology, Willis Towers Watson.

CLIPS is a retrospective look at historical changes in commercial property & casualty insurance (P&C) prices and claim cost inflation. A forward-looking analysis of commercial P&C trends, outlook and rate predictions can be found in Willis Towers Watson’s Insurance Marketplace Realities series.

*Correction: In the second quarter of 2021, we reported the aggregate commercial price change as just above 6%. The revised figure is just under 8%.

About Willis Towers Watson

Willis Towers Watson (NASDAQ: WLTW) is a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company that helps clients around the world turn risk into a path for growth. With roots dating to 1828, Willis Towers Watson has 45,000 employees serving more than 140 countries and markets. We design and deliver solutions that manage risk, optimize benefits, cultivate talent, and expand the power of capital to protect and strengthen institutions and individuals. Our unique perspective allows us to see the critical intersections between talent, assets and ideas — the dynamic formula that drives business performance. Together, we unlock potential. Learn more at willistowerswatson.com.

About CLIPS

CLIPS data are based on both new and renewal business figures obtained directly from carriers underwriting the business. CLIPS participants represent a cross section of U.S. P&C insurers that includes many of the top 10 commercial lines companies and the top 25 insurance groups in the U.S. This survey compared prices charged on policies written during the third quarter of 2021 with the prices charged for the same coverage during the same quarter of 2020. For this most recent survey, 38 participating insurers representing approximately 20% of the U.S. commercial insurance market (excluding state workers compensation funds) contributed data.

Media contact

Ileana Feoli: +1 212 309 5504
ileana.feoli@willistowerswatson.com

FAQ

What was the commercial insurance price change reported by Willis Towers Watson in Q3 2021?

Willis Towers Watson reported a commercial insurance price increase of just over 7% in Q3 2021.

Which insurance line had the largest price increase in Q3 2021 according to Willis Towers Watson?

Professional liability showed the largest price increase in Q3 2021.

Did any insurance lines experience a decrease in prices in Q3 2021?

Yes, workers' compensation experienced a slight price reduction in Q3 2021.

How does the Q3 2021 price increase compare to previous quarters?

The price increase in Q3 2021 was lower than the nearly 8% increase reported in the first and second quarters.

What does CLIPS stand for in the context of Willis Towers Watson's report?

CLIPS stands for the Commercial Lines Insurance Pricing Survey.