On this special panel episode of Scouting For Growth, Sabine VdL convenes a global group of InsurTech experts to decode the forces reshaping insurance in 2025 and beyond—from microinsurance innovation in Africa, to embedded insurance ecosystems in Asia, emerging-risk underwriting in Europe, and accelerating digital disruption across the US, LATAM, and the UK. This is not a hype tour. It’s a reality check for leaders navigating a market where technology, regulation, and customer behaviour are evolving faster than traditional insurance models can keep up. AI must be built in—not bolted on One theme cuts across every region: AI cannot be layered on top of legacy infrastructure and expected to deliver impact. To scale securely and responsibly, insurers must rethink their foundations so AI becomes part of the operating core. The next wave isn’t just better tools—it’s AI embedded across ecosystems, enabling real-time decisions, pricing, and protection. Europe: emerging risks are driving innovation In Europe, the panel highlights a clear shift: around 20% of InsurTech deals in 2024 focused on emerging risks. Climate volatility, electric vehicles, and new systemic exposures are forcing innovation upstream—especially in pricing and underwriting, where traditional models struggle to keep pace with rapidly changing risk profiles. Asia: embedded insurance meets underserved SMEs South-East Asia remains one of the most compelling growth markets. With far less legacy infrastructure than the US, insurers are building embedded insurance directly into digital ecosystems—from commerce to mobility to fintech. The opportunity is massive: 95–97% of Asia’s economy is driven by SMEs, accounting for roughly 75% of employment, yet this segment remains significantly underinsured. Insurance, the panel argues, must show up where customers already are—not expect them to come looking for it. Africa: inclusion through accessibility Africa’s InsurTech landscape carries a paradox. While skilled talent often leaves the continent, capital, innovation, and entrepreneurial energy are flowing in. The fastest growth is emerging in communities building new ways to transfer risk across multiple lines, not just life insurance. Technology is lowering barriers to access, making insurance more affordable, scalable, and relevant for populations historically excluded from protection. A generational shift in data expectations One striking insight: privacy expectations are not universal. In many young, mobile-first markets, consumers are more willing to trade data for convenience, speed, and personalisation—forcing insurers to rethink product design, trust models, and value exchange. A leadership warning Regulation matters—but it shouldn’t be your only compass. Entrepreneurs often move faster than regulators, and the most important signals about where the market is heading are already visible in startup experimentation. Why this episode matters This panel offers a global strategy map for leaders: AI must be foundational, not cosmetic Emerging risks are reshaping underwriting innovation Embedded insurance is accelerating ecosystem-led growth SMEs are the world’s most underserved opportunity Africa’s future lies in scalable, inclusive risk transfer Customer expectations differ radically by region Insurance transformation isn’t happening in one market or one model. It’s happening everywhere—differently, simultaneously, and at speed.