Rate softening in the energy market shows no signs of abating, according to Willis

Core Insights - Insurance buyers are in a strong position to optimize cost and coverage as the market transitions into 2026, according to the Energy Market Review Update by Willis [1] Upstream Energy Market - The upstream energy market has experienced a record year of low loss activity, attributed to improved risk management and asset quality, leading to continued profitability for insurers [2] - Market softening has accelerated since the previous review in April, with insurers prioritizing retention of well-managed risks and rewarding long-term relationships [2] Downstream Energy Market - Downstream insurers have faced approximately US$3.5 billion in losses this cycle, with claims equaling market premiums, particularly in the US refining sector [3] - Companies with clean loss histories benefit from favorable renewal terms, while those with loss activity may encounter more conservative market conditions, although rate reductions of 10-15% and up to 20-50% in competitive tenders are available [3] Market Trends for 2026 - Insurers reported strong financial results at the end of Q3, with oversupply in capacity and a growth-oriented appetite simplifying complex placement structures, allowing for premium savings for clients [4] - Energy companies renewing in Q4 2025 and looking into 2026 are positioned to negotiate better conditions alongside pricing [4] Specific Market Challenges - Upstream construction faces long-tail risks, but underwriters are more accommodating to these risks where operational relationships exist [6] - Subsea construction capacity remains restricted, creating a micro-hard market, with some insurers considering small amounts of subsea construction to boost premium income [6] - The liability market is transitioning from hard to softening conditions due to healthy capacity and positive loss ratios, contrasting with the US casualty market, which is affected by social inflation and new legislation [6]