Herald gathers insurance leaders in New York to weigh AI's practical value for the sector

Insurance brokers and carriers are testing AI tools widely but struggling to prove financial returns. Staff report feeling busier than ever, even as companies invest in automation meant to cut workloads.

Categorized in: AI News Insurance
Published on: Apr 15, 2026
Herald gathers insurance leaders in New York to weigh AI's practical value for the sector

Insurance Leaders Remain Divided on AI's Real Impact

Insurance brokers and carriers are experimenting with AI tools at scale, but many remain uncertain whether the technology actually improves their bottom line. That's the takeaway from a recent industry dinner in New York where operations, technology, and business leaders gathered to assess AI's role in their sector.

Some operations leaders view AI as the next phase in a decade-long effort to increase producer productivity. Others are less convinced. One technology leader cited in discussions about the dinner said multiple AI tools have been tested without delivering clear financial gains so far.

The Productivity Paradox

Staff report feeling busier than ever, even as companies invest in tools meant to streamline workflows. This suggests that efficiency gains-if they exist-haven't yet translated into lighter workloads or measurable cost reductions for most organizations.

The gap between optimism and skepticism reflects a broader pattern in enterprise software: tools that promise efficiency often require significant implementation effort and organizational change before they pay off.

Where the Opportunity Lies

Broad engagement across insurance is accelerating. Companies are actively testing which AI applications deliver tangible value rather than betting on single solutions. This experimentation phase creates an opening for vendors who can demonstrate measurable efficiency gains and cost savings with concrete numbers.

For insurance professionals, the takeaway is clear: AI adoption will likely accelerate, but success depends on vendors proving their tools work in your specific workflows. Pilots that show real financial impact will drive the next wave of spending.

Learn more about AI for Insurance and how AI Agents & Automation are being applied to operational challenges across the industry.


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