Zurich commerical broker chief Dave Smith spots similarities to the early 2000s when the market turned

Current market conditions are begining to resemble the early noughties, when the hard market returned, says Zurich commercial broker managing director Dave Smith.

Smith says the sticking of fleet motor rates in the first quarter is the first bellwether of a hardening market.

However, Smith says there are two big differences to 20 years ago.

So how likely is the return of the hard market?

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.