Discovering license plates: Romania

28 January 2026

The Spanish Bureau of Motor Insurers (OFESAUTO) has released a guide to help identify Romanian vehicle license plates. Since Romania's accession to the EU, their plates include the specific "RO" euroband code, which facilitates recognition within the Green Card system. This publication aims to assist Spanish drivers and authorities in correctly identifying foreign vehicles. Proper identification is crucial for processing cross-border claims efficiently.

AI will cease to be an experiment and will become a reality for insurers in 2026

28 January 2026

Industry experts predict that 2026 will be the year Artificial Intelligence moves from experimental pilots to full-scale implementation in the insurance sector. This shift is expected to revolutionize auto insurance underwriting and claims processing by improving efficiency and speed. Insurers are deploying these technologies to enhance the customer experience and operational capabilities. Early adopters of AI are anticipated to gain a significant competitive advantage in the market.

Home insurance: How high are premiums for natural hazard protection?

28 January 2026

This cost analysis explores current premiums for natural hazard protection (Elementarschäden) within German residential property insurance. As extreme weather events increase in frequency, the political debate regarding mandatory disaster insurance has reached a critical point. The study highlights significant regional variations in costs based on localized climate risk profiles and building structures. Despite rising threats of floods and storms, a substantial portion of homeowners remains underinsured. Insurers are struggling to keep premiums affordable while managing the escalating costs associated with climate change claims. This situation forces a strategic re-evaluation of actuarial models for property and related motor risks.

AI chatbots were yesterday's news; now comes the digital employee

28 January 2026

The insurance sector is rapidly moving from basic AI chatbots to sophisticated "digital employees" capable of complex tasks. These advanced AI agents are designed to handle entire workflows and interact with customers with high natural language proficiency. This technological shift aims to significantly boost operational efficiency while reducing the administrative load on human staff. Implementing digital employees allows for faster inquiry processing and provides a more personalized service experience. As AI capabilities evolve, integrating these autonomous agents is becoming a prerequisite for staying competitive in the digital age. This trend marks a transition from simple automation to intelligent workforce augmentation.

Turkiye: 1 in 5 vehicle owners cancel traffic insurance policies

28 January 2026

In a major systemic threat, approximately 20% of registered vehicle owners in Turkiye have canceled or failed to renew their mandatory traffic insurance. This alarming statistic, reported by Quick Sigorta, highlights the severe impact of economic pressure and rising premiums on the national insurance pool. The widespread lack of coverage poses a macroeconomic risk, potentially leading to the insolvency of the national guarantee fund. Millions of drivers are now operating without essential third-party liability protection, creating a safety net crisis for accident victims. Authorities face the urgent challenge of restoring affordability and trust to prevent a total sector collapse. This situation serves as a stark warning about the fragility of mandatory insurance systems during economic volatility.

The Government approves the registration of VPLs: Fines of up to 800 euros for driving without insurance

27 January 2026

The Spanish government has approved new regulations for Personal Mobility Vehicles (VPL), such as electric scooters, which include a mandatory registry. A significant aspect of this new rule is the imposition of fines of up to 800 euros for operating these vehicles without insurance. This measure aims to ensure that victims of accidents involving micromobility vehicles are protected. Insurers are adjusting their product offerings to meet this new mandatory demand.

Liability insurance: The winners in terms of claims costs in 2024

27 January 2026

A new analysis has identified the top performers in the German liability insurance market for 2024, highlighting those with the best combined ratios. This sector, which is closely linked to motor liability, saw certain insurers excel in balancing competitive premiums with effective risk management. These "loss-cost winners" managed to maintain profitability despite broader economic pressures. The report serves as a benchmark for brokers and customers looking for stable insurance partners.

DEVK invests in insurance broker

27 January 2026

German insurer DEVK has acquired a stake in the Managing General Agent (MGA) "Herzenssache" to expand its market reach. This strategic partnership is designed to foster growth and develop specialized insurance solutions. The move reflects a trend of traditional carriers collaborating with agile agencies to access niche customer segments. It allows DEVK to diversify its portfolio and enhance its distribution capabilities.

Spanish insurance strengthens its influence in Insurance Europe

27 January 2026

The Spanish insurance sector has strengthened its position within Insurance Europe, the federation of European insurers. This increased influence allows Spain to have a greater say in EU-wide regulations, including motor insurance directives and consumer protection. Key focus areas include solvency standards and adapting to new European policy decisions. This development signifies deeper integration for Spanish insurers in the broader European market.

VHV board member: "We are focusing on future-oriented technology"

27 January 2026

Dr. Sebastian Reddemann, a board member of VHV Allgemeine, outlines the German insurer's strategy for 2026, focusing on future-oriented technology. He highlights the integration of AI-supported claims handling as a key driver for efficiency in the auto sector. The company is also targeting young drivers with specific offers to maintain competitiveness. The interview emphasizes VHV's commitment to digital transformation in motor insurance.

Are EVs cheaper to insure than gas vehicles? It depends

27 January 2026

A study by MyChoice in Canada shows that insurance costs for electric vehicles (EVs) are not consistently lower than those for internal combustion engine cars. Premiums are heavily influenced by the specific model and the manufacturer's approach to repairability and parts availability. While EVs may have lower fuel costs, their complex technology can lead to significantly higher repair bills following an accident. Insurers are currently refining their actuarial models as more historical data on EV claims becomes available to the industry. Consumers are encouraged to compare specific models to understand the full cost of ownership and insurance. This variability highlights the ongoing challenge of underwriting rapidly evolving automotive technologies.

Polar vortex snows offer opening to review homeowner coverage

27 January 2026

Intense storms driven by a polar vortex in southern Ontario have prompted brokers to initiate comprehensive coverage reviews with their clients. The extreme weather has caused significant property damage due to heavy snow accumulation and freezing temperatures across the region. Brokers are using this period to educate policyholders on loss prevention and the importance of adequate coverage limits. The frequency of such weather anomalies is forcing a reconsideration of deductibles and perils associated with winter storms. Ensuring that policies match the current climate risk landscape is essential for maintaining carrier solvency and client resilience. These events serve as a practical test for disaster response and claims handling efficiency.

First auto insurer to receive claim pays, even if the policy expired before the accident

27 January 2026

A Canadian tribunal has issued a landmark ruling stating that the first insurer to receive an auto claim must pay, regardless of policy expiration. The case established that even if a claimant provides incorrect data, a sufficient "connection" is created to trigger the insurer's immediate payment obligation. This "pay first, dispute later" principle is designed to ensure that injured parties receive support without being delayed by administrative disputes. The decision clarifies the priority of payment in complex cases involving multiple potential insurance providers. This precedent will likely streamline the initial claims intake process but may increase inter-company litigation. It emphasizes the consumer protection focus of the Canadian regulatory framework.

Halifax council set to debate bylaw proposing increased oversight for Uber

27 January 2026

The Halifax regional council is considering a new bylaw that would significantly increase the regulatory oversight of ride-hailing platforms like Uber. The proposed rules aim to create a level playing field by aligning Uber’s requirements with those of traditional taxi and limousine services. Potential changes include stricter licensing procedures, mandatory safety inspections, and enhanced insurance obligations for all active drivers. This regulatory shift responds to long-standing calls for fairness and safety within the municipal transportation sector. If adopted, the bylaw will impact the operational costs and compliance strategies for all ride-sharing entities in the area. Carriers must be prepared to adjust their commercial products to meet these new standards.

Are brokers getting squeezed by ChatGPT for the hearts and minds of consumers?

26 January 2026

Canadian consumers are increasingly using ChatGPT and other generative AI tools to research insurance options before contacting professional brokers. While this leads to a more engaged consumer, it also presents a risk as AI often provides information lacking regional or legal nuance. Brokers are finding themselves in a position where they must correct AI-generated hallucinations or overly broad advice. This "AI-squeeze" forces brokers to pivot toward high-value consultancy and specialized regulatory navigation to prove their essential role. The industry is currently debating how to best integrate AI tools to enhance rather than replace the broker's expertise. Maintaining professional relevance requires a focus on the complex nuances that AI still cannot master.

How to read an insurance policy?

26 January 2026

SISTRAN has released a detailed guide for Latin American consumers to help them navigate the complex technical language of insurance policies. The guide explains fundamental concepts such as deductibles, exclusions, and coverage limits to reduce consumer confusion. This initiative is a response to the low levels of financial literacy that historically hinder insurance penetration in the region. By empowering clients to better understand their contracts, SISTRAN aims to build greater trust between the public and the insurance sector. Clear communication is presented as a vital tool for improving customer retention and reducing claim disputes. This educational effort is part of a broader strategy to foster a stronger insurance culture in LATAM.

Motor vehicle insurance doesn't just apply to cars – golf carts, snowmobiles and even armored vehicles also need to be insured

23 January 2026

The Finnish Motor Insurers' Centre reminds the public that mandatory traffic insurance applies to more than just cars. Following legislative updates, vehicles like golf carts, snowmobiles, and even tanks must be insured if used in traffic. This announcement aims to clarify coverage requirements and ensure legal compliance for non-traditional vehicles. Owners are urged to check their insurance status to avoid penalties and ensure victim protection.

Turning the brakes on dangerous driving

22 January 2026

The Insurance Association Malta (IAM) has welcomed new government enforcement measures aimed at curbing dangerous driving behaviors. The association stresses that a consistent police presence and swifter judicial outcomes are essential for improving national road safety. These measures respond to rising incidents of reckless driving and the public glorification of such acts on social media. IAM supports stricter penalties, including bans on digital content that encourages or celebrates traffic violations. The insurance sector views these enforcement actions as a critical lever for reducing accident frequency and claim costs. Enhanced road safety directly supports the long-term sustainability of motor insurance premiums.