What's Happening?
Neil Sprackling, CEO of Swiss Re's U.S. Life & Health division, discussed the impact of excess mortality and health innovations like GLP-1 drugs at the LIMRA 2025 Annual Conference. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected mortality rates, with ongoing challenges from heart disease, diabetes, and drug overdoses. Swiss Re's research suggests that GLP-1 drugs could reduce all-cause mortality by 6.4% over the next 20 years.
Why It's Important?
The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of the life insurance industry, where understanding mortality trends is crucial for risk assessment and policy development. Innovations in healthcare, such as GLP-1 drugs, offer potential benefits for public health and insurance markets. These developments could lead to changes in insurance products and strategies, impacting both insurers and policyholders.
What's Next?
The life insurance industry will continue to monitor mortality trends and the impact of health innovations. Companies like Swiss Re may adjust their strategies and offerings in response to these changes. The broader healthcare sector will also be watching the adoption and effects of GLP-1 drugs, as they could influence public health outcomes and healthcare costs.
