Agenda
2025 Program: Underwriters in a Dangerous Time
Day 1 – Wednesday, 17 September
11am
Accenture – NICC Golf Tournament
Accenture – NICC Golf Tournament at Club de Golf Le Sorcier
3pm
Registration Opens
6:15-7:30PM
Cocktail Reception
Day 2 – Thursday, 18 September
7:30AM
Registration Opens
8-8:45AM
Breakfast
Breakfast Sponsored by
8:45-9AM
Welcome & Address
Introductions by
8:55-9:05AM
EmCee Address
9:05-9:30AM
Munich Re Canada & HSB Canada Rising Star Awards
9:30-10:15AM
The View from OSFI
Peter Routledge in Conversation with Celyeste Power
Session Description
The pace of regulatory change in the insurance sector shows no signs of slowing. As the industry navigates a complex and evolving environment—from capital adequacy and climate risk to consumer protection and digital transformation—it’s more important than ever to take stock of where we are and where we’re headed.
This dynamic fireside chat will feature OSFI Superintendent Peter Routledge in conversation with Celyeste Power, President & CEO of the Insurance Bureau of Canada, offering a timely and candid discussion on the regulatory landscape. Together, they’ll explore the expectations shaping the future of supervision, the role of industry collaboration, and how insurers can prepare for what’s next.
Set against the backdrop of ongoing economic uncertainty and structural shifts in the market, this session will provide valuable insights to help leaders align strategy with regulatory direction—and set the tone for the conversations to follow throughout NICC 2025.
10:15-10:45AM
Networking Break
Sponsored by
10:45-11:40AM
Concurrent Sessions
Session A
Hot, Hotter & Hottest Legal/Regulatory Updates
Session Description
We’re kicking off this year’s panel sessions with a returning favourite—a powerhouse panel of legal and regulatory experts diving into the most pressing issues facing the industry today. Building on themes from the opening fireside chat with the OSFI Superintendent, this session will explore the “hot,” “hotter,” and “hottest” developments shaping the legal and regulatory landscape. From recent rulings to anticipated reforms, expect a fast-paced, insightful, and practical discussion that sets the tone for the rest of the conference.
Session B
MGAs making their value known in the commercial marketplace
Session Description
MGAs have been talked about for years, partly misunderstood, and now becoming top of mind for commercial insurance in Canada. Why are MGAs occupying more and more of the commercial & specialty marketplace? What value do they bring the broker, the carrier, the insurance cycle? These relatively misunderstood underwriters are becoming the elite niche solutions providers in a legacy monolithic dominated underwriting landscape. Mature MGA channels like those in the UK and the US now occupy nearly 50% of the commercial insurance market; how quickly and why will MGAs in Canada catch up to this marketshare here? Hear from practitioners from two MGAs, a carrier and a broker on these questions.
11:45-12:45AM
Concurrent Sessions
Session C
Underwriting The Future: Are we ready for AI-Powered Threats?
Session Description
Join us for a timely and thought-provoking discussion on the emerging threats and opportunities posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Property and Casualty (P&C) insurance industry. Our expert panel will delve into the latest AI-powered risks, from sophisticated cyber attacks to AI-driven fraud, and explore the implications for underwriters, risk managers, and the industry as a whole. With insights from leading experts in cybersecurity, AI, and insurance, this session will provide a unique perspective on the future of P&C insurance and the steps necessary to stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with our panelists and gain actionable insights on how to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the P&C industry. Topics will include an overview of the emergency of AI-Powered Threats, a discussion on underwriting and Managing AI risks, and view into the future. Audience participation is encouraged.
Session D
Building in Resiliency: New Home Construction Built to Last
Session Description
In January 2024, ICLR and the Canadian Homebuilders’ Association launched the Resilient Homes Task Force. Leaders from the insurance industry and home builders are working together to champion the construction of homes designed and built with reduced risk of damage from wildfire, flooding, severe wind, and hail. The Panel will discuss the focus of the Task Force on resilient construction best practices guidance provided by ICLR to builders and insurers, pilot projects, and a labelling program. The conversation will explore lessons learned and next steps.
1-2:30PM
IBC Lunch & Presentation
Sponsored by
2:45-3:45PM
Concurrent Sessions
Session E
American Insurance Crises – Could Canada be Next?
Session Description
The California insurance crisis has left 1 in 10 homes uninsured and led to more than 3.6 million non-renewals, and a ballooning of that state’s insurer of last resort. California is only the latest example of a US state that is struggling to bring insurers back to its home insurance market.
What are the key conditions that have led to insurance crises throughout the US? What are the essential lessons for Canada’s insurance industry and governments to ensure a stable and competitive personal property insurance market in Canada?
Session F
Multi-National Coverage Tactics
Session Description
Delve into the evolving landscape of multinational strategies, which are becoming an ever more important component of comprehensive risk management and transfer strategies. Explore how these strategies can offer tailored solutions to address specific risks, enhance control over insurance costs, and provide greater flexibility in managing global exposures.
4:15-5PM
Concurrent Sessions
Session G
Climate Risk Disclosure: Best Practices for Insurers
Session Description
The last year has seen a flurry of new reporting requirements from OSFI on climate risk for Canadian insurers. How should insurers approach these new regulations, and how does it impact issues like asset allocation? Join SLC Management’s Sally Murdock, Managing Director, Insurance Strategy, Office of the CIO, and Kevin Quinlan, Senior Director, Climate and Client Strategy and (tbc) Managing Director, for a panel discussion on the challenges, learnings, and opportunities that have emerged, based on SLC Management’s experience managing the General Account of Sun Life. Learn how the new requirements for climate risk disclosure are enhancing risk management, informing client reporting, and influencing investment strategy.
Session H
Canadian Reinsurance Landscape: Seeking Equilibrium & Sustainability
Session Description
The Canadian market has experienced elevated catastrophe loss activity in recent years. At the same time the reinsurance market reset of 2023 pushed retentions higher, resulting in increased net retained exposure for insurance companies. This session will cover lessons learned from recent cat events, how the industry is managing the increased exposure, and how we are working with reinsurance partners to develop viable solutions for frequency protection. This session will also discuss alternative risk transfer solutions as part of an overall reinsurance strategy with an overview of the first Canadian CAT bond issued in 2025.
5:10-6PM
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Is it Worth the Risk?
Session Description
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are typically seen as positive drivers of social progress and organizational growth, but they can also be perceived as risks in certain contexts. While as a risk, it can present challenges, the key to success lies in approaching it thoughtfully, with clear goals, consistent messaging, and a focus on long-term sustainability. Leadership lies in recognizing that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is not just a compliance requirement but a strategic imperative that drives innovation, strengthens decision-making, and enhances organizational outcomes.
7:30PM
Gala Dinner
Sponsored by
Day 3 – Friday, 19 September
9-9:45AM
Global Economic Outlook

Group Chief Economist
Swiss Re
Session Description
As economic uncertainty continues to shape global markets, what lies ahead for the world economy—and for the insurance industry? Join Jérôme Jean Haegeli, Group Chief Economist at Swiss Re, for a timely and insightful overview of the key forces driving today’s economic landscape. From inflation and interest rates to geopolitical tensions and long-term structural shifts, this session will unpack the trends that matter most. Expect expert analysis, forward-looking perspectives, and an opportunity for audience Q&A to explore what’s next for insurers navigating a rapidly evolving global economy.
9:45-10:45AM
Global Leaders’ Panel
Session Description
This signature NICC session brings together top executives from leading global firms to explore the international forces shaping Canada’s insurance market. With the 2026 renewal cycle on the horizon, the panel will dive into critical topics including:
– Global capital flows and market capacity
– Catastrophe (CAT) exposures and climate-related risks
– Economic volatility and inflationary pressures
– The evolving global risk landscape
Gain exclusive insights and a world-class perspective on what’s ahead for both the Canadian and global insurance industries.
11:10-11:50AM
Concurrent Sessions
Session I
Dealers’ Choice: Auto Dealers in Ontario to Distribute Insurance?
Session Description
Session J
The Cross-Border Connection: Organized Crime, Fraud, & Enforcement
Session Description
Join Équité Association, Canada’s national authority on insurance crime and fraud prevention, along with a panel of esteemed experts from across the country, including senior law enforcement leadership and CBSA representatives. Offering unique insight to the ever-evolving landscape, this session will delve into the complex web of organized crime and fraud that transcends our borders, impacting the insurance industry, and affecting the safety and security of all Canadians. Insurance crime is not a victimless crime and is a critical source of funding that fuels the distribution of dangerous drugs such as fentanyl, for organized crime networks. This conversation will cover how collaborative efforts, including the impactful work of government agencies, law enforcement, and industry partners, are disrupting criminal networks.
12-1PM
Supply Chain Risk in a De-globalizing/Fractured World
Session Description
In this session, experts will explore how supply chain risk is expected to evolve in an increasingly deglobalized and fractured world. As geopolitical tensions rise, trade alliances shift, and economic interdependence becomes a tool of strategic leverage, companies will need to rethink traditional supply chain models. The discussion will focus on how organizations can proactively build resilience through diversification, regionalization, and increased transparency. Panelists will examine emerging risks—from export controls and sanctions to climate disruptions and cyber threats—and share strategies for navigating this new landscape. Attendees will gain insights into how leading companies plan to adapt procurement, risk management, and sustainability frameworks to remain competitive and secure in a more fragmented global economy.
2:30PM
Wrap Up
Nevina Kishun
President
MSA Research