UK companies could face disruption from shocks to lithium supply chains in Chile, Argentina and Bolivia. Businesses exposed to batteries, electric vehicles, energy storage and other technologies reliant on critical minerals could see losses related to export restrictions, labour disputes, political intervention and infrastructure problems.

The National Insurance Awards 2027 are open for entries. Now in their 14th year, the awards highlight the very best in general insurance provision and management in the UK. Judged by an independent panel of experts for exceptional performance, the awards provide an opportunity for organisations and individuals to showcase their strategies, software and successes from the past year.

Cyber resilience has become a core commercial issue for UK manufacturers, as increasingly connected factories and supply chains leave businesses exposed to disruption, according to a new report from association Make UK. Nearly 30% experienced a serious incident either directly or through their supply chain.

Kiteworks has announced the general availability of Agent and Human Error Prevention, extending its data control plane to outbound email to identify potentially harmful mistakes before sensitive information is sent to the wrong recipient.

Blenheim Partnerships, part of the White Bear Group, has launched an insurance solution designed to protect vessel owners against the financial consequences of new-build ships being delivered late or not being delivered at all. The launch comes as shipbuilding activity sits at its highest level in more than two decades.

Global insured natural catastrophe losses reached an estimated £31.1bn in the first half of 2026, 16% below the 10-year average, according to Swiss Re Institute. Losses from severe convective storms were also below trend.