Navigating a Soft Market: Phil Cunningham Shares How Discipline and Investment Are Driving DCL Forward 

In a recent Insurance Post feature, our CEO, Phil Cunningham, joined several industry-leading voices to discuss the ongoing dynamics of the soft commercial motor insurance market - a landscape shaped by rising competition, growing capacity and downward pressure on premiums. 

While soft markets inevitably test insurers, brokers and MGAs, Phil offered a clear view into how DCL is navigating these pressures. This is through strategic investment and a focus on strengthening broker relationships. 

Refining Growth to Protect Margin 

One of the central themes Phil emphasised is the importance of recalibrating growth expectations to maintain underwriting discipline. 

In the interview, he explained that DCL revised its gross written premium (GWP) growth target from 20% to 10% - not as a retreat, but as a strategic decision to ensure sustainable performance. 

This approach is underpinned by last year’s expansion of DCL’s underwriting team. A move Phil described as essential both for supporting broker partners and ensuring consistent, disciplined decision-making. 

The Power of Keeping Claims In-house 

Another standout point from Phil’s contribution was the value of our inhouse claims capability. 

Unlike peers relying heavily on outsourced claims handling, DCL manages a significant proportion of claims internally. Phil noted that over half of the company’s staff work within claims, giving DCL a meaningful operational advantage. 

This strategy is reinforced by the launch of the DCL Claims Portal in 2024. A tool designed for simplicity, transparency and access to real-time claims details for brokers. 

Phil highlighted how far the industry has come: claims information was once treated almost as a secret, but today, transparency is a strength. By opening up full claims data to brokers, DCL reinforces trust and better supports informed decision-making. 

A Market Searching for Its Catalyst 

The article pointed out that this current period of market softness differs from previous cycles, which were usually triggered by specific global or economic events. Phil echoed a sentiment shared by others in the piece, that this softening has no clear catalyst and may even be partially “industry-created.” 

Despite the uncertainty, Phil remains confident about the long-term outlook. 

Why Discipline Matters Now More Than Ever 

Across the industry perspectives included in the article, one theme was consistent: discipline is the differentiator. 

But Phil’s comments underscored how discipline at DCL is more than just a mindset, it’s embedded through: 

• Strong underwriting governance 

• Investment in internal capability 

• Transparent claims handling 

• Continued support for brokers 

This combination positions DCL to remain resilient and support brokers even as market dynamics shift unpredictably. 

Looking Ahead 

A soft market inevitably create challenges, but they also create space for innovation and strategic clarity. Phil’s reflections in the Insurance Post piece showcase DCL’s commitment to long-term discipline, strengthened partnerships, and ongoing investment in areas that matter most to brokers and policyholders.  

You can read the full article here.