News

New Big “I” survey reveals that only 3 in 10 Americans (31%) review or shop for insurance each year, with many waiting until premiums increase, major life changes occur, or coverage issues arise.

Throughout the year, the Big “I” and Independent Agent magazine have been hard at work, examining emerging market trends and helping you be there for your clients with the latest insights.

While many insurers have filed for rate decreases in 2025, many customers have yet to feel the effects of those decreases, with 44% of auto insurance claimants reporting a price increase in the past 12 months.

Nearly half of U.S. homeowners have seen their insurance premiums increase over the past year, signaling growing concerns over insurer loyalty and long-term profitability, according to J.D. Power.

Small commercial customers are more likely than ever to consider moving their business to another insurer at renewal, according to J.D. Power.

Nationally, homeowners insurance rates jumped 11.4% in 2024, with double-digit increases reported in the last two years.

The newly expanded resource—which builds upon the toolkit first published in July 2023—covers a wide range of updates and strategies for navigating the challenges posed by the hard market.

The latest research from Liberty Mutual and Safeco explores how the hard market is impacting both agents and customers and how agents can improve customer satisfaction and retention.

The increase in auto insurance shopping is prompted by soaring auto insurance costs, with a 22.2% year-over-year increase in the average cost of auto insurance through the end of February.

Client communication, retention, technology and team morale are among agents’ top priorities in adapting to the hard market.