Best Insurance Looks Ahead to 2026: AI, Portals, White Labels & More
Over the past 12 months, insurers have already made steps to accelerate digital enhancements across pricing, underwriting and claims. Kesh Thukaram co-founder at Best Insurance and founder of AI underwriting platform excitare.ai, has picked out four key trends we should look for in 2026, including:
- Digital-first distribution will become default
- AI underwriting will accelerate
- Regulation means automated claims processes with real-time status updates will take-off
- Expect more product innovation, partnerships and white label solutions
1. Digital-first distribution will become default
Advancements in technology and AI will continue to transform underwriting and distribution in 2026, with insurers expected to roll out smoother, faster digital journeys for both advisers and customers. This will make insurance products much easier to buy especially in areas where consumers favour digital self-serve options.
For advisers, digital portals will become far more useful and sophisticated, moving beyond basic quote tools to include features such as case tracking, automatic updates, better product comparisons and links to CRM and back-office systems. This will reduce admin, speed up decision-making and improve data quality for insurers.
At the same time, consumer awareness and demand for non-advised, online protection solutions also looks set to grow, especially in the life and income protection markets, as more customers seek out quick, convenient online services instead of traditional advice-led channels.
These changes will create a clear divide in the distribution market and those advisers slow to modernise may find themselves facing higher costs and tighter margins. Others may seek to partner with firms who can offer better technology, faster turnaround times and simpler underwriting processes.
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