The backlog of UK employment tribunal cases has surged to a record level, with the number of outstanding claims rising sharply as the system struggles to keep pace with demand. Data from HM Courts and Tribunals Service shows that open caseloads reached 68,192 at the end of January, an increase of nearly 50% y-o-y. The figure captures both single and multiple claims, meaning the total number of individual claims outstanding exceeds 500,000.

Heightened cyber activity linked to the Middle East conflict has raised concerns about the potential for severe cyber attacks that could test insurers’ underwriting models and increase systemic risk, according to analysis by S&P Global Ratings.

The Institute of Risk Management has announced the formation of a Malaysian subsidiary, IRM Asia Sdn Bhd. Based in KL, the new subsidiary will act as a regional hub for lifelong learning, professional development, networking and thought leadership.

Initial ransom demands rose 47% in 2025, yet 86% of businesses did not pay, according to data from Coalition. Ransomware was the costliest type of claim, with an average loss of £202,000, while business email compromise and funds transfer fraud accounted for 58% of cyber incidents. Among FTF claims, 52% originated from BEC.

The London Market is continuing to provide cover for insureds affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict. In a statement, Chris Jones, chief executive of the International Underwriting Association, said insurance arrangements across the region had long reflected heightened geopolitical tensions but that coverage remains available across several lines of business.

Markel International has this week launched an internal unit whose goal is to accelerate responsible AI adoption across the group’s five businesses. The AI Centre of Enablement, which will be led by senior vice-president of operations for Markel in Canada Maureen Tomlinson as head of AI, will sit within the insurer’s international portfolio analytics team.