While the summer sun is shining, only remnants of California’s three-year drought remain after a winter of massive storms. As of early April, the U.S. Drought Monitor reported that areas of drought covered less than 9% of the Golden State, a sharp fall from more than 99% as of October 1, 2022. Into May, the state remained roughly 92% drought-free after months of rain and snow. California’s winter was marked by multiple atmospheric rivers that dumped vast amounts of rain and blanketed mountains with an extraordinary level of snowpack. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there is a 50% - 60% chance weather in central and Northern California will be wetter than usual.

The REDY Index leverages CRC Group’s collection of actionable data – the wholesale industry’s largest. It provides critical pricing analysis monthly, giving you a snapshot of the marketplace. The REDY Index generates instant intelligence on pricing trends by industry or coverage, enabling our retail partners to set accurate data-driven expectations with their clients. Removing the guesswork empowers CRC team members to negotiate competitively, consistently producing better outcomes, better deliverables, and better results.

Turmoil in the property market, higher interest rates, and a slowing economy are complicating the Builder’s Risk market. Capacity is available but with higher deductibles and stronger risk mitigation requirements. Increasingly complex placements require skilled brokers with strong market relationships to get the job done.

As property insurance prices continue to rise, the stock throughput segment presents opportunities for relief. While insurers limit or reduce capacity for property coverage, particularly in catastrophe-exposed areas, stock throughput offers more flexibility. That pliability is due in large part to a turnaround in the London market following a hard spell propelled by Lloyd’s Decile Ten profit remediation drive that saw some players exit. Now, insureds may be able to obtain coverage at better terms and prices for stock representing a substantial portion of their exposures. However, stock throughput remains a complex marketplace best navigated with the help of skilled and knowledgeable wholesale brokers.

The cannabis industry continues to grow rapidly. Just two years ago, the global market was valued at nearly $18 billion dollars. Expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of more than 25% over the next several years, the industry is expected to be worth a staggering $134.4 billion by 2030 (source 1). Although still federally illegal, the cannabis business is attracting entrepreneurs and investors across the U.S., fueled by state legalization measures, growing sales, and a need for tax revenue. While the cannabis industry seems to be shedding its taboo market status in some areas, many financial institutions, including insurance carriers, still remain hesitant to offer cannabis coverage, with the majority of professional, casualty, and property insurance business finding a home in the E&S marketplace (source 3). In 2023, the insurance market for cannabis organizations is continuing to evolve and present opportunities across all lines.