“By the end of 2026, “doing it right” for insurers means being able to make better decisions faster, at scale, and without sacrificing discipline or trust. It means having underwriting and claims systems that are integrated, intelligent, and adaptive; using real-time data and embedded AI to automate the routine, surface risk early, and let experts focus on what truly requires judgment.”
— Samir Salem, EVP of Customer Success
This article is an excerpt from the P&C Insurance Leaders’ Outlook 2026.
Cogitate’s EVP of Customer Success, Samir Salem, is well-versed in the challenges insurers and MGAs are overcoming with DigitalEdge insurance platform and sees first-hand the business impact of tech innovation. As Cogitate’s team develops advancements in AI and data, Samir works directly with our customers to adopt these, and other innovations, for better outcomes across underwriting and claims processing.
Michael: What behaviors are going to define smart underwriting and claims practices in 2026?
Samir: In 2026, I feel that smart underwriting and claims are no longer about who has the most models. They are about how we embed real-time intelligence into everyday decisions, freeing experts to focus on complexity, and consistently delivering outcomes that are faster, fairer, and more profitable. The behaviors needed are part technological, by adopting a digital platform that can help in faster implementation of this intelligence and part by disciplined feedback loops, and a culture of continuous improvement.
Michael: So if you’re advising a new insurer or MGA starting up in this environment, what technology capabilities should they prioritize?
Samir: They need systems that keep them fast, adaptable, and intelligent. Startups don’t have the time or margin for rigid infrastructure, and they can’t afford platforms that create lock-in. Integration is the top priority, but embedded intelligence is what turns integration into advantage. The technology stack must connect seamlessly with third-party data, rating engines, underwriting workflows, distribution channels, and have AI built directly into those workflows, not bolted on as an afterthought.
If teams are manually moving data or making routine decisions without intelligent assistance, they are already at a disadvantage. The smartest approach is to adopt platforms with open integrations, modular design, and embedded AI that augments underwriting and claims decisions in real time. In a market moving this fast, adaptability powered by smart AI isn’t optional, it is a competitive edge.
Michael: You’ve talked before about the growth of insurance startups. What’s driving that trend?
Samir: The surge in insurance startups is being driven by a few converging forces. Barriers to entry are much lower than before, cloud platforms, APIs, and embedded AI make it possible to launch without heavy, monolithic systems. At the same time, risks are fragmenting. Climate, cyber, and new liability exposures are creating niche markets that incumbents struggle to address quickly.
Distribution has also changed, with digital and embedded channels enabling faster access to customers. And increasingly, technology itself is the differentiator; startups are built around real-time data and intelligent automation from day one. In short, startups keep emerging because the market is evolving faster than legacy models can adapt.
Michael: What are you watching as an indicator in the market?
Samir: I am seeing FAIR Plans expand rapidly, which is a clear sign that standard markets aren’t absorbing risk the way they once did. Regulators are paying closer attention, consumers are feeling the pressure, and carriers are being forced to rethink how they approach certain geographies and lines of business. When FAIR Plans grow, it usually reflects a tougher underlying risk environment or traditional mechanisms struggling to keep pace. That creates room for innovation, but it also raises the stakes. Entering the market without strong tools, sound risk models, and disciplined operational controls means you’ll be exposed very quickly.
Michael: So by the end of 2026, what’s your simplest definition of “doing it right” for insurers?
Samir: By the end of 2026, “doing it right” for insurers means being able to make better decisions faster, at scale, and without sacrificing discipline or trust. It is having underwriting and claims systems that are integrated, intelligent, and adaptive; using real-time data and embedded AI to automate the routine, surface risk early, and let experts focus on what truly requires judgment.
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