Aon plc (AON), a major risk management and solutions firm based in London, held its first Investor Day in nearly two decades on Monday, presenting its long-term growth strategy and analyzing the most pressing issues for global businesses. CEO Gregory Case spoke with Madison Mills on the Catalysts program, covering the interconnected risks affecting companies around the world and how Aon is helping clients navigate an increasingly volatile environment.
During the event, Case outlined the four megatrend risks that Aon’s 2024 Client Trends Report identifies as most significant: Trade, Technology, Weather, and Workforce. These risks, he said, are deeply interconnected and demand a robust, forward-looking management approach.
Trade and Supply Chain Volatility
Addressing current challenges in global trade, Case noted that supply chain disruptions remain top of mind for clients, particularly in light of tariffs imposed during the administration of former President Donald Trump. Geopolitical instability, inflation, climate change, currency fluctuations, and workforce availability all contribute to ongoing market uncertainty. "The connectivity between these risks is a central concern for companies of all sizes," Case explained, highlighting how these factors can disrupt business operations. To address such volatility, Aon provides clients with tools like supply chain diagnostics, alongside regular webinars to guide action planning and mitigation strategies. (source)
Technological Advancement and Risk
The pace of technological change also brings new opportunities and challenges. Case underscored that innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) have improved efficiency and growth but similarly expose companies to heightened risks—such as cybersecurity threats and regulatory scrutiny. Citing Aon’s research, he called for “forward-looking analytic models” to help businesses better anticipate and respond to quickly evolving digital risks. (source)
Weather and Disaster Preparedness
Companies are also grappling with the financial and operational impacts from an increase in severe weather events. In 2024 alone, global economic losses due to natural disasters are estimated at $368 billion. Aon’s experts advise integrating climate risk analysis into long-term business planning to build resilience. (source)
Workforce Challenges
Attracting and retaining top talent remains a critical risk for organizations. According to Aon’s 2023 Global Risk Management Survey, the failure to attract or retain key staff ranks fourth among global business risks. The challenge is driven by rising competition for skills, increasing healthcare costs, and ongoing workforce shortages. ( source)
Preparedness Gap Highlighted
Aon’s Business Decision Maker Survey found that 72% of executives believe their organizations are not moving fast enough to address these megatrend risks, despite the increasing complexity they present. The survey results underline the need for timely decision-making based on comprehensive data and analytics. (source)
Case concluded that Aon remains committed to equipping clients with the insights and strategies necessary to address the risks of an increasingly uncertain world. The firm continues to offer resources such as supply chain diagnostics, educational webinars, and advanced analytics services in support of clients across commercial, health, and wealth domains.
For further expert insights and analysis, viewers and readers are encouraged to access more segments of Catalysts and review Aon’s publicly available reports.