AI tops future risks list

For the first time, artificial intelligence has been named the top future risk by global experts in the AXA Future Risks Report 2026, surpassing climate change. This shift is based on a survey of 4,345 experts across 62 countries and 24,000 citizens in 19 countries, changing how economic threats are perceived and prompting the insurance sector to update its pricing and coverage models.

AI moves up rapidly in concern

Artificial intelligence has advanced three places in just one year, moving from fourth to first in the concerns of the professionals surveyed. Among those who see AI as a major risk, 54% believe it is emerging rapidly, due to its ability to transform economies. This rise is driven by AI's integration into industries and services, creating regulatory uncertainties and challenging traditional economic models.

Public still prioritizes climate change

Climate change remains the top concern for citizens of all ages, but AI has moved from seventh to second place between 2025 and 2026. This shows a difference in perception between experts and the public. Experts, who see the daily effects of AI, anticipate changes that the public has only started to notice. Meanwhile, the visible impacts of climate change, like extreme weather, keep it high on public concern.

Insurers adapt to new risks

The shift in risk priorities is forcing insurers to revise their actuarial models. Risks related to AI, such as cyberattacks and algorithm liability, require new pricing strategies. Cyber insurance policies now include clauses for AI-driven attacks, and professional liability insurance is evolving to cover algorithmic errors. Climate-related insurance remains important, but insurers must balance coverage for both climate and technological risks.

Insurers find new market opportunities

The gap between expert and public perception represents a commercial opportunity. Sixty-eight percent of citizens believe insurers play a crucial role in managing future risks, creating a captive market. Insurers can use their data and expertise to educate customers, offer preventive coverage, and build long-term partnerships. By shifting from curative to preventive models, they respond to the belief that 85% of people think future risks can be partially avoided through prevention.

Demographic changes add to complexity

Alongside AI and climate change, demographic changes, like declining fertility and aging populations, are reshaping protection needs. French households, facing weaker family support and delayed retirement, are seeking coverage for all life stages. Health insurance now includes telemedicine and personalized prevention, while dependence insurance is growing due to aging. Companies must protect their physical, intangible, and human assets, with SMEs struggling to assess their risks and large firms navigating complex regulations.

Insurance adapts to interconnected risks

The AXA report highlights how insurance must not only protect but also help anticipate and reduce risks. Insurers see themselves as shock absorbers in the economy, and sovereign and institutional funds are increasing their investments in insurance assets. The growing complexity of threats, like a cyberattack during a heatwave, requires integrated coverage. Insurers are developing combined policies for cyber, climate, and liability, while public-private partnerships are expanding to share risks that cannot be fully insured.

Report signals a new era for risk management

The thirteenth edition of the AXA Future Risks Report marks a turning point, with AI becoming central to global economic stability. Those who can balance climate protection, technological security, and demographic adaptation will have a competitive edge. For individuals and companies, understanding the new risk hierarchy is becoming essential to navigate an increasingly uncertain future.