Digital Technologies Conference 2024

Andrea Sironi, Chairman, Generali 

Suitable regulation is needed to address ethical considerations associated with the use of AI, including privacy concerns, bias and accountability. However, overregulation could stifle innovation. Insurance is one of the most heavily-regulated sectors and so it is at the forefront of AI regulation. Insurers are also particularly aware of the risks and benefits of these technologies. For example, AI could contribute to increased financial literacy but it is also energy intensive. Insurers should work to maintain a balance between innovation and governance to benefit both their customers and their own companies. 

Manuela Diviach, Allianz 

Global spending on AI is growing rapidly and is projected to reach USD 297 billion by 2027, a 19.1% increase from 2022. AI has the potential to close significant protection gaps in insurance, including in natural catastrophes, cyber and health. Good quality data, customer confidence in the technology and a human-in-the-loop approach are essential to ensuring responsible AI use. Building trust among employees, leading by example, and providing ample training and opportunities for upskilling are also needed to build a culture of innovation and confidence in AI within insurance companies. 

Moderator: Adrien Lebègue, ZA Tech/ZhongAn Insurance 
Speakers: Carl Bauer, Eos Venture Partners; Alessandro Bonaita, Generali; Arianna Brina, EIOPA; Bryan Pickel, Prudential Financial 

By facilitating the shift towards risk prediction and prevention and allowing the development of more personalised insurance products, AI has the potential to narrow protection gaps, in particular in health insurance. However, awareness is growing about the risks associated with the use of AI, and the adoption of AI in the insurance sector could be slower than expected. Realising the benefits of these technologies will require collaboration between insurers, regulators and other key stakeholders. 

Marcin Detyniecki, AXA 

AI has evolved rapidly – from symbolic AI to machine learning and generative AI. The adoption of large language models in various applications is transforming core insurance processes. Technical concerns, such as issues related to intellectual property, hallucinations, and the need for systematic risk management when it comes to privacy, security, fairness, transparency and safety, need to be addressed. But successfully implemented, AI will drive efficiency, reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction. 

Moderator: Daniele Scarpari, EY
Speakers: David Cis, Generali; Pranay Jain, Enterprise Bot; Bruno Scaroni, Zurich Insurance; Camila Serna, Chubb 

This panel session explored approaches to adopting AI in insurance, including applications in underwriting, claims, marketing and product development. The session addressed the importance of internal regulation and the balance between in-house development and outsourcing. Potential risks associated with AI were also highlighted, including cyber risks, product liability and the impact of AI on customer interactions, emphasising the need for responsible use and flexibility in adapting to the evolving AI landscape. 

Moderator: Atsushi Izu, Dai-ichi Life 
Speakers: Martha Boeckenfeld, Marthaverse, Femitopia; Emanuele Colonnella, Generali; Adam L’Italien, Liberty Mutual; Jing XIAO, Ping An 

The final session looked into the future, envisioning a society where AI plays a bigger role in the daily lives of insurance customers; for example, through technologies for warning systems for severe weather and for monitoring home electrical systems to prevent fires. However, as AI's influence grows, so do concerns about misinformation and fraud, necessitating additional regulations. Adaptability and experimentation will be key to navigating this evolving landscape, which will require insurers to embrace technology, sustainability and customer engagement.