Latest news with #WTW
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Just 3 in 10 aviation executives believe their strategy can adequately address the emerging risk challenges of the next decade
LONDON, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 130 senior aviation representatives took part in our new report, Understanding emerging risks in the aviation industry by Willis, a WTW business (NASDAQ:WTW). Of these, only one in two declared themselves confident that their business model and strategy are resilient to today's emerging risks environment, and only 30% believe their strategy will be fit for purpose over the next decade. In addition, 80% of key decision makers and 90% of those involved in teams leading or implementing risk strategies were unable to identify their organization's definition of emerging risk. Almost half of the respondents in the sector (49%) were unable to identify their company's top five emerging risks. Other key findings include: Climate transition: Climate change is viewed as a significant threat to the aviation industry, impacting operational resilience, financial performance and stakeholder trust. Fixed-asset aviation operators – such as airports, fuel suppliers and cargo handlers – are particularly exposed to the exogenous risks associated with climate change. Nearly one in three (29%) of all respondents mention climate change in their overall top five emerging risks, one in five (20%) put the climate transition as a top five source of emerging risks in the next two years and one in two (50%) chose the environmental category as one of their top five sources of emerging risks in the next 10 years. Geopolitical and economic risks: Geopolitical and economic risks are closely tied and seen to have an outsized influence on opportunity and business plans. Concerns about financial shock, geopolitical instability, government business policy, trade sanctions and business financial risk affect all companies in the sector. Insurance gaps are also mentioned in this context, suggesting an unsated appetite for economic risk transfer products among aviation organizations. Geopolitical and economic outlook risks feature in the top 5 risks in all time horizons: risks of today, of the next two years and the next 10 years. They are also at the top in terms of interconnectivity, with the most volume of risk connections declared. Cyber risks: As the hosts and owners of critical national infrastructure and systems, aviation companies are perennially in the crosshairs of cybercriminals. 11% of respondents see this as the industry's most significant current risk (on par with supply chain risks) and it also features heavily over the five- and 10-year timescales. It is closely connected with AI, which is seen as an enabler of both hackers and internet security providers. Artificial intelligence: AI is viewed as a risk in the immediate timescale, taking the top position for 36% of respondents, but drops out of the top five when looking at a two-year and ten-year horizon. One airport executive shared a dual concern around the exposure that comes from using AI and the risk of not using it and being left behind. For example, there is potential for the industry to deploy AI to gather insight on minor incidents that lead to attritional claims. These are estimated to represent half to two thirds of the value of aviation insurance claims in any given year, and there is a clear incentive for the insurance and risk management sector to work with the industry to develop tools or services that can reduce their number or severity. The unique nature of aviation as an industry puts it in an interesting position when it comes to technology as a whole and the development of AI specifically. Airports compete geographically and airlines on routes, but because many airports and airlines are seen as important parts of national infrastructure, there are often very strict rules around ownership. The industry's structure has also made it relatively open to sharing appropriate data, particularly where safety is involved. This could potentially mean that any successful AI tools and services will spread relatively quickly through the industry over the next few years, without outsized benefits for any particular organization. John Rooley, CEO, Willis Aviation & Space, said: 'The challenges we face today in the aviation industry, whether it's the business implications of AI, cyberattacks, disruptions to the global supply chain or energy transition, demand a re-evaluation of how we perceive and manage emerging and interconnected risks. But our survey shows that aviation experts, traditionally superb at long-term planning that accommodates fleet renewals, infrastructure development and regulatory compliance, have been struggling to define the emerging risk landscape. The time has come to take a proactive stance and align planning with a forward-thinking approach that embraces adaptability and resilience.' About WTW At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance. Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Learn more at Media contact Lauren in to access your portfolio
Globe and Mail
14-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
WTW's Willis appoints Adrian Cousins as Head of London Market Claims
LONDON, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Willis, a WTW business, (NASDAQ: WTW), today announced the appointment of Adrian Cousins as Head of London Market Claims. In this new role, Cousins will be responsible for overseeing and implementing key aspects of Willis' global claims strategy, including strategic engagement with London market insurers, reinsurers, adjusters and law firms. Cousins will report to Neil Harrison, Global Head of Claims, who commented: 'We're continuously evolving our approach to the delivery of claims services and solutions, leveraging our specialty and scale for the benefit of our clients. Achieving our goals in this critical area of the Willis client value proposition requires proven leadership, technical expertise and strong market relationships. Adrian has delivered outstanding outcomes for Willis clients for many years and we look forward to him now taking on these broader responsibilities as part of our Global Claims Leadership Group.' In addition to the Head of London Market Claims role, Cousins will continue to serve as Head of Claims for FINEX in GB, Western Europe and internationally, reporting to Jeremy Wall, Global Head of FINEX. About WTW At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance. Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Media contacts Lauren David
Globe and Mail
11-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
The sun is shining on renewable energy, according to latest Willis Renewable Energy Market Review
LONDON, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Although carbon-based clean technologies are expected to see only marginal growth, renewable and clean energy technologies are projected to grow exponentially to meet rising global demand. Looking ahead, despite ongoing global pressures and with softening market conditions, optimism is anticipated to persist according to the Renewable Energy Market Review 2025 published today by Willis, a WTW business (NASDAQ: WTW). The review, titled Next-gen renewables: Risk resilience and insurance readiness, includes commentary on emerging market dynamics across key regions, highlights the next wave of renewable energy innovations, and outlines strategies to navigate growing global uncertainty. Together, these insights deliver a comprehensive analysis of the risks and opportunities shaping the sector in 2025. Several key trends are explored in this years' review: Softening market conditions persist: an oversupply of capacity is intensifying competition among insurers, continuing to drive pricing downward Natural catastrophe losses remain a major concern: severe weather events are directly damaging assets and causing significant challenges Risk and insurance solutions evolve: innovation in peril diagnostics and broad parametric solutions is helping the market better manage volatility and uncertainty Renewable innovation gains momentum: emerging technologies such as kinetic infrastructure, solar-integrated materials, nuclear fusion and gravity-based storage demonstrate the continued interest in reshaping the future energy landscape Steven Munday, Global Renewable Energy Leader, Natural Resources at Willis, said: 'While global pressures endure, the next wave of innovation continues to push the sector forward into new and unchartered waters, low carbon power generation doesn't stop with wind and solar. Different regions face intrinsic risks and opportunities, but the renewable energy sector as a whole can step into the future to deliver clarity and confidence. The market is advancing data and analytics, integrating renewable occupancy focused climate risk models, and enhancing risk management tools to better assess and price risks associated with renewable energy projects. With more insurance capacity entering the market as insurers seek to capture growth in the renewable and clean energy sector and replace premium from shrinking opportunities in fossil fuel insurance lines, softer pricing, broader terms with cover innovation, lower deductibles in most product lines and regions are welcomed headlines for 2025.' The complete report can be downloaded here. About WTW At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance. Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Learn more at Media contact Lauren David: / +44 7385947619 Haggie Partners WTW@ / + 44 20 7562 4444
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
WTW Outperforms Industry, Trades at a Discount: How to Play the Stock
Shares of Willis Towers Watson Public Limited Company WTW have gained 18.7% in the past year, outperforming its industry and the Zacks S&P 500 composite's growth of 10.2% and 12.3%, respectively. It, however, underperformed the Finance sector's return of 21.5%. The insurer has a market capitalization of $30.27 billion. The average volume of shares traded in the last three months was 0.7 million. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Willis Towers' bottom line surpassed earnings estimates in each of the last four quarters, the average being 15.99%. WTW shares are trading below the 50-day and 200-day moving averages, indicating a bullish trend. WTW shares are trading at a price to forward 12-months earnings of 17.17X, lower than the industry average of 21.58X. Its pricing, at a discount to the industry average, gives a better entry point to investors. Shares of other insurers like Brown & Brown, Inc. BRO and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. AJG are trading at a multiple higher than the industry average, while Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. MMC is trading at a discount. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Willis Towers' 2026 earnings per share and revenues indicates an increase of 14.1% and 5.3%, respectively, from the corresponding 2025 estimates. The insurer has a solid surprise history. It surpassed earnings estimates in three of the last four quarters and missed in one, the average beat being 5.12%. Based on short-term price targets offered by 17 analysts, the Zacks average price target is $364.71 per share. The average suggests a potential 18.9% upside from the last closing price. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Three of the 10 analysts covering the stock have lowered estimates for 2025, while three analysts have lowered the same for 2026 over the past 60 days. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings has moved down 0.8% in the past 60 days, while the same for 2026 has moved down 0.7% in the same time frame. Willis Towers' growth strategy encompasses a focus on improving operating margins, increasing free cash flow conversion and driving sustainable revenue growth. Focus on core opportunities with the highest growth and return, which include gaining market share in Risk and Broking and Individual Marketplace, should spur long-term growth and return more value to Health, Wealth & Career and Risk & Broking segments, driven by solid customer retention levels, growing new business and geographic diversification, continue to fuel the top line. Most of the company's operating regions experienced revenue growth for 15 straight quarters. Strategic acquisitions have expanded its geographical footprint in the last few years in countries like Italy, Canada, the United Kingdom and France, as well as ramped up its product Towers has been improving its liquidity while maintaining a solid balance sheet. A solid balance sheet and steady cash flow are expected to help the company engage in capital deployment for buybacks, dividend payouts, debt repayments, acquisitions and investments that drive and support growth. Banking on its capital position, WTW distributes wealth to shareholders in the form of dividend hikes and share repurchases. Its dividend has witnessed a six-year CAGR (2019-2025) of 5.7%. The insurer expects share repurchases to total approximately $1.5 billion in 2025, subject to market conditions and other relevant factors. Despite the upside potential, Willis Towers' expenses have been rising over the last several quarters. Higher salaries and benefits, other operating expenses, and transaction and transformation, as well as increased consulting and compensation costs related to the Transformation program, result in the contraction of margins. Willis Towers estimates to deliver expansion in margin over the long trailing 12-month ROE of 20.5% is weak when compared with the industry average of 27.3%, reflecting its inefficiency in using shareholders' funds. Willis Towers boasts a strong product portfolio and has a solid track record of strategic acquisitions, as well as favorable growth estimates. The Health, Wealth & Career and Risk & Broking segments should continue to witness significant growth from increases in most lines of business. A robust capital position over the years reflects its financial the escalating expenses and poor return on equity, it is better to stay cautious about this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (MMC) : Free Stock Analysis Report Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG) : Free Stock Analysis Report Brown & Brown, Inc. (BRO) : Free Stock Analysis Report Willis Towers Watson Public Limited Company (WTW) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Globe and Mail
08-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Most US employers not budging on budgets, salary increases remain flat
NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Average salary increase budgets for US companies in 2026 are expected to remain stable at 3.5%, matching 2025's actual increases. This is according to the latest Salary Budget Planning Report by WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company. Three out of five organizations saw their salary budgets change in the last pay cycle. More than half (53%) of these organizations reported no change between their anticipated and actual pay budgets in 2025. For the nearly one-third (31%) of these organizations that are projecting lower salary increase budgets than last year, the most common reasons cited are an anticipated recession or weaker financial results (51%) and concerns related to cost management (45%). Tight labor markets (59%) and inflationary pressures (30%) are the most commonly cited reasons for change among the relatively few organizations that are projecting higher salary increase budgets. 'While top-line budgets are generally holding steady, the real shift is happening beneath the surface. Organizations are being more deliberate about how they allocate pay, where they focus investment and what outcomes they expect to drive. Employers are no longer simply reacting to economic signals; they're reimagining how to best support broader business goals despite uncertainty,' said Brittany Innes, director, Rewards Data Intelligence. Despite stable pay increases, employees are staying put. Fewer organizations this year have found employee stability challenging compared to the past two years. Less than one-third of organizations (30%) report difficulty attracting or retaining employees, representing a decrease of 11 percentage points since 2023. In response to market conditions in which turnover is relatively low and burnout and disengagement remains a concern, organizations have taken a number of actions to support their workforce, including improving the employee experience (47%), enhancing health and wellness benefits (43%) and increasing training opportunities (40%). Additionally, employers are adjusting compensation programs to address the competitive labor market and inflationary pressures. These actions have included conducting a compensation review of all employees (50%), performing a compensation review of specific employee groups (48%), hiring people higher in relevant salary ranges (45%) and raising starting salary ranges (40%). Over two-fifths of organizations (43%) have enhanced their use of retention bonuses or spot awards and 37% have targeted base salary increases for specific employee groups. As organizations focus on these efforts, they continue to wrestle with higher annual payroll expenses. The average annual payroll expense increased by nearly 4% (3.6%), and 7 in 10 organizations report total annual payroll expenses higher than last year. 'As employers navigate continued economic uncertainty, ongoing increases in labor costs and the changing needs and expectations of employees, they are positioning themselves for what is to come and making investments in their workforces that go beyond pay raises. These include career development, wellbeing, flexibility and equity—because these are critical for performance, retention and resilience in a shifting market,' said Lori Wisper, managing director, Work & Rewards. About the survey The Salary Budget Planning Report is compiled by WTW's Rewards Data Intelligence practice. The survey was conducted from April to June of 2025. Approximately 29,128 responses were received from companies across 157 countries worldwide. In the U.S., 1,569 organizations responded. About WTW At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance. Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Learn more at Media contacts: Ileana Feoli
