A new survey from Gallagher suggests that U.S. business owners are treating risk management as a strategic business function rather than a reactive insurance purchase. The survey of 1,000 business owners found widespread concern about a range of threats, including artificial intelligence, cyberattacks, supply chain disruptions, and severe weather events. Nearly all respondents expressed concern that their insurance coverage may not adequately protect them from certain losses, underscoring the continued challenge of aligning risk exposures with insurance programs.
Artificial intelligence emerged as both an opportunity and a source of concern. While nearly half of respondents plan to increase AI investments in 2026, many are also incorporating AI into risk assessment and mitigation efforts. At the same time, business owners expressed strong support for greater AI regulation and safeguards. For claims professionals, the findings point to a growing need to understand how AI-related risks could affect liability exposures, cybersecurity incidents, operational failures, and future coverage questions.
Cyber risk remains a leading concern, with more than two-thirds of respondents worried about cyberattacks and many seeking additional cyber insurance protection. The survey also highlights how supply chain disruptions have become a routine business challenge. Many companies have established backup suppliers and continuity plans to reduce operational disruptions, reflecting broader efforts to improve resilience and reduce business interruption exposures.
Weather-related risks continue to generate significant concern, particularly flooding. More than half of business owners identified flooding as a major threat, yet only 30% reported carrying flood insurance. This disconnect between perceived risk and insurance protection remains an important issue for claims adjusters handling catastrophe and commercial property losses. The survey also found that some businesses are investing in resilient construction and property reinforcement following weather-related claims, a trend that could influence future loss severity and recovery outcomes.
Overall, the report reflects a business community that is increasingly focused on resilience and risk mitigation but still faces substantial coverage gaps. For insurance carriers, brokers, risk managers, and claims professionals, the findings provide a snapshot of evolving client concerns and emerging exposures that are likely to influence underwriting, loss prevention efforts, and claims activity in the coming years.
