In a world where strikes, sabotage, and civil unrest increasingly threaten business operations, political violence insurance (PVI) is no longer a niche product - it’s a necessity. And at EXOS, a specialty reinsurance intermediary, the mission is clear: match the right capital with the right risk.
“We see ourselves as a bridge between exceedance and reinsurance,” said Tareq Qassas (pictured), associate director – production at EXOS. “Our role isn’t just to place capacity. It’s to structure it properly so that capital flows where it’s most needed, and coverage is sustainable.”
This view reflects both a technical approach to brokering and a deeply human one. “Behind every placement, there are businesses and communities depending on us,” he said. “So I try to combine disciplined analysis with empathy.”
The demand for PVI has surged in recent years, driven by global instability and the realisation that standard property policies often exclude crucial risks. From terrorism to sabotage and denial of access, clients now expect broader protection – and EXOS has adapted accordingly.
“Political violence has expanded well beyond terrorism,” Qassas noted. “We now structure solutions that address everything from SRTC to war-on-land and business corruption. And we serve not only global corporates, but also frontier citizens who need access to reliable, sustainable solutions.”
It’s a balancing act, especially in regions where local insurers lack the capacity to meet demand. Here, Qassas sees a responsibility that goes beyond business. “Without global reinsurance capital, local markets can’t protect their economies,” he said. “So we have to balance capital discipline with developmental responsibility. That’s how we ensure fair pricing, clear wordings, and long-term viability.”
As global instability takes many forms, EXOS adapts its strategy to meet the nature of the threat. In regions hit by sudden violence, the response is immediate. In areas with persistent unrest, long-term capacity planning becomes critical.
“A shock event like Doha requires immediate aggregation review, repricing, and data capacity,” Qassas said.
“Nepal, on the other hand, is very different, it’s a case of chronic instability. Our role there is to maintain steady capacity built on informed local intelligence. As brokers, our job is to translate volatility into workable, insurable solutions.”
Africa presents a more mixed landscape. “Hotspots are tightening, but stable jurisdictions are attracting competition,” said Qassas. “We stay agile by reallocating placements dynamically.”
Innovation is also high on the EXOS agenda, particularly as underwriting becomes more data-driven. “Parametric solutions, public-private partnerships, AI, and social monitoring will reshape underwriting,” said Qassas. “We’re investing in these areas and building partnerships to ensure our clients get access to both capacity and innovation.”
As political violence insurance evolves in response to global tensions, Qassas views the intermediary’s role as deeply consequential. “Our role is never just to place business, it’s to make sure the solution fits the people who depend on it.”
