Willis Towers Stock Price, News & Analysis

WTW launched its Political Risk Index today, revealing significant geopolitical shifts globally. The index rated 61 countries, finding that only 25 lean towards the West, while 18 align with Eastern powers, and another 18 remain neutral. Notably, the Western bloc’s influence has declined sharply, with just six countries classified as strong allies of the West compared to 30 five years ago. The report also highlights increasing risks in countries shifting towards the East, such as a 7% rise in expropriation risks and declines in political rights and economic freedom. These changes suggest a growing challenge for businesses operating globally.

WTW (NASDAQ: WTW) releases the Renewable Energy Market Review 2023, emphasizing the challenges in the renewable energy sector due to a 'new trilemma': net-zero energy security, unsettled global macroeconomics, and rising demand amid input shortages. The review highlights the importance of risk management and ESG in navigating these complexities. Contributors recommend that risk managers focus on understanding their ESG positions and adopt a proactive approach. Additionally, the report forecasts insurance rate fluctuations, with some clients facing significant increases based on their risk profiles.

WTW (NASDAQ: WTW) has appointed Tony Yen as the new Head of Taiwan, effective January 1, 2023, succeeding Charles Wang, who retired in December 2022. With over 20 years of experience in risk engineering and management, Yen has been with WTW since 2015 and leads the Corporate Risk & Broking business in Taiwan. His appointment is expected to enhance service delivery and drive growth amidst global uncertainties. Simon Weaver, Head of Asia Pacific at WTW, expressed confidence in Yen's ability to provide data-driven solutions to clients, aiming to boost their resilience and success in a complex business landscape.

WTW (NASDAQ: WTW) has announced the unification of its Asia and Australasia operations into a single Asia Pacific region, effective January 1, 2023. Simon Weaver, previously Head of Australasia, will now lead the combined region, focusing on business growth and enhanced collaboration. This transition follows the upcoming retirement of Clare Muhiudeen, the current Head of Asia. WTW aims to leverage synergies, improve operational efficiency, and better respond to client needs in a complex global economy. Weaver's extensive experience in risk management and insurance will guide this new phase of growth.

WTW has launched a new online platform named 'Clarity on Demand' aimed at the aviation sector, offering 24/7 access to expert commentary on policy clauses, claims, and market trends. The platform is designed to assist clients, including airlines and aviation-related businesses, by providing a space for knowledge sharing and technical insights. This initiative reflects the industry's shift toward remote learning and supports better risk management and insurance strategies amidst ongoing challenges.

WTW (NASDAQ: WTW) will announce its fourth quarter and full-year financial results on February 9, 2023, before market opening. A conference call is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day, which will include a question-and-answer session. The call will be broadcast live on WTW’s website, and a replay will be available post-call. WTW specializes in providing data-driven solutions in people, risk, and capital across 140 countries, aiming to enhance clients' strategies, resilience, and performance.

WTW reports that the funded status of the largest corporate defined benefit pension plans in the U.S. ended 2022 at 95%, unchanged from the previous year. A WTW analysis of 356 Fortune 1000 companies found a funding deficit of $62 billion, reduced from $80 billion in 2021. This decline in pension obligations was attributed to a 26% decrease in liabilities due to rising interest rates, despite a 26% drop in pension assets, totaling $1.22 trillion. Investment returns averaged –19% in 2022, prompting caution for plan sponsors as they face potential cost increases moving into 2023.

WTW has launched a new strategy for its North American Corporate Risk and Broking (CRB) business, enhancing its client offerings by aligning internal resources through industry specialization. This innovative approach focuses on twelve specific industries and aims to improve client service by integrating broking, claims advocacy, risk control, and technology. The model addresses clients' needs while providing a unique value proposition across various segments such as healthcare, technology, and construction. This strategic evolution reflects WTW's commitment to delivering tailored solutions for diverse clients.