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Coface Economist warns of underestimated global economic risks for 2026. Jean-Christophe Caffet, Group Chief Economist at Coface, recently shared his insights on the key learnings from 2025 and the outlook for 2026 at the latest Coface Country Risk Conference. His analysis offers a sobering perspective on the state of the global economy, challenging the prevailing consensus and urging a more cautious approach. Caffet acknowledges that 2025 did not turn out to be the economic disaster that many had predicted. Despite intense news coverage and ongoing global conflicts, the economy weathered the stress test of the all-out trade war launched by the United States relatively well. Major conflicts, from Ukraine to the Middle East, remained confined to the regional level, not causing new tensions on commodity prices or significant disruptions to the global economy. However, Caffet warns that uncertainty remains high, and the risks have probably never been so great. The coming financial year looks set to be particularly uncertain and turbulent. He questions whether the global economy will once again prove resilient, as the 'consensus' view suggests, or if it is currently in the eye of a storm whose intensity is greatly underestimated, if not denied. Caffet's analysis underscores the need for Europe to strengthen its economic competitiveness while maintaining a robust regulatory framework, particularly to limit climate change. This dual focus is crucial for navigating the contemporary challenges that lie ahead. The full analysis by Jean-Christophe Caffet at the Coface Country Risk Conference provides a deeper understanding of the major risks in 2026. His insights serve as a wake-up call, urging decision-makers to be more vigilant and prepared for the potential turbulence that lies ahead. As Caffet's analysis suggests, the global economy may be in the eye of a storm, and it is imperative to brace for the possibility of heightened volatility and uncertainty in the coming year. Read all about it

Coface CEO: adapt or fall behind in reshaped global trade. In the rapidly evolving landscape of global trade, businesses must adapt or risk being left behind. Xavier Durand, Coface's Chief Executive Officer, recently shared insights at the Gipfeltreffen der Weltmarktführer in Germany, an event renowned as the "Davos of the German SME sector." His message was clear: the bold days of international trade are far from over, and Europe still has a significant role to play. But how can businesses navigate this new world order? The world is changing at an unprecedented pace, characterized by extreme acceleration, unpredictability, and uncertainty. The rules of the game have changed, and what once worked may no longer be effective. Businesses are hesitating, and investment decisions are on hold as the level of risks escalates and insolvencies reach historical highs. However, it is crucial to recognize that globalization is not dead; it is being reshaped. Trade continues to grow, economies remain interconnected, and companies must operate in a world where global dynamics shift abruptly. Durand emphasized the importance of adapting to these changes. He highlighted the need for new ways to cope with the evolving business environment. At Coface, this adaptation has involved a significant reinvention over the past decade, leveraging digitization and AI to stay ahead. By tripling IT investments and expanding data and AI teams, Coface has reduced response times and increased credit decisions, sharing intelligence through Coface Business Information to enable 15,000 companies to manage risks globally. One success story Durand shared involved a German multinational company that transitioned from decentralized risk management to a harmonized, digitalized solution. This shift allowed the company to access higher quality, predictive data, integrate solutions into their CRM/ERP systems, and achieve attractive pricing. The result was more accurate, efficient decision-making, saving time and resources. Durand's advice for navigating these turbulent times can be distilled into three key steps: focus on short-term execution, dare to innovate and invest, and avoid relying on a single scenario by defining multiple pathways. In moments of extraordinary change, having a reliable partner to reshape perspectives on trade risks is invaluable. Durand expressed full confidence in Coface Business Information solutions, which the company uses to manage its own exposure in trade credit insurance. As businesses grapple with the challenges of a rapidly changing world, Durand's insights offer a roadmap for success. By focusing on execution, embracing innovation, and preparing for multiple scenarios, companies can navigate the complexities of global trade and emerge stronger. The future of international trade is not bleak; it is an opportunity for those willing to adapt and innovate. Read all about it

Coface appoints Marsinta Marpaung as Indonesia country manager. Trade credit insurer Coface has promoted Marsinta Marpaung to the newly created role of country manager for Indonesia, effective from December 1, according to a press release. Jakarta-based Marpaung (... To continue reading the full article and get full access to the InsuranceAsia News platform, please enquire about a subscription. Your company may already have a corporate license in place.