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Insurance & Risk Management Trends Every Middle-Market Leader Should Watch in 2026
The insurance market is no longer just about buying coverage — it’s about building resilience, protecting enterprise value, and using risk strategy as a competitive advantage. For middle-market companies ($10M–$500M revenue), the gap between proactive risk leaders and reactive buyers is widening fast. Here are the trends I’m seeing shape boardroom conversations across the country: 1. The “Softening Market” Isn’t Uniform Yes, some lines are stabilizing — but this is not a blan

jamesvanharms
2 days ago2 min read


Why Middle-Market Leaders Should Be Exploring Insurance Captives in 2026
A look down the street from our Steamboat Springs location - one of our favorite winter views For many middle-market companies ($10M–$100M in revenue), insurance has historically been treated as a fixed expense — something to negotiate once a year and move on. That approach is quickly becoming outdated. As premiums rise, underwriting tightens, and risk becomes more closely tied to enterprise value, forward-thinking leadership teams are asking a different question: Should we c

jamesvanharms
5 days ago2 min read


Strategic Consulting for Mid-Sized Companies: A Guide
In today's competitive landscape, mid-sized companies face unique challenges that require tailored strategies for growth and sustainability. Strategic consulting can provide the insights and frameworks necessary to navigate these complexities. This guide will explore the importance of strategic consulting for mid-sized companies, the key areas where it can make a difference, and practical steps to engage with consultants effectively. Understanding Strategic Consulting Strateg

jamesvanharms
Dec 1, 20254 min read


Insurance Trends to Watch for 2026
By Routt & Dane Strategy Group As we move toward 2026, insurance is no longer a back-office purchase or a once-a-year renewal exercise. For middle-market organizations, insurance strategy is becoming a core business discipline—one that directly affects growth, valuation, and resilience. Below are the key insurance trends we believe leadership teams should be watching closely as they plan for 2026 and beyond. 1. Insurance as a Strategic Lever — Not Just a Cost Center The days

jamesvanharms
Dec 16, 20252 min read


Understanding the Role of Consulting in Business Growth
Consulting plays a crucial role in helping businesses identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance performance. Consultants bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, allowing them to provide tailored solutions that address specific challenges. Here are some key areas where consulting can make a significant impact: Identifying Opportunities for Improvement Consultants can conduct thorough assessments of a business's operations, identifying inefficiencies

jamesvanharms
Dec 1, 20254 min read


How We're Helping in Wisconsin and Colorado
Understanding the Economic Landscape Wisconsin's Economic Strengths Wisconsin is known for its diverse economy, which includes agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The state is home to a robust agricultural sector, producing dairy, corn, and soybeans. Additionally, Wisconsin's manufacturing industry is strong, particularly in machinery, food processing, and paper products. Agriculture : Wisconsin ranks first in the nation for cheese production and is a leading producer

jamesvanharms
Dec 1, 20254 min read


AM Best Revises U.S. Excess and Surplus Lines Segment Outlook
AM Best has announced a revision of its market segment outlook for the U.S. excess and surplus lines segment, changing it from positive to stable. This adjustment is attributed to several factors: Softening rates in the market. Moderation in premium growth. This change reflects the current trends and conditions within the insurance market, indicating a more cautious outlook moving forward. In today's competitive landscape, businesses are constantly searching for ways to incre

jamesvanharms
Dec 1, 20251 min read


Insureds Have a Duty to Review Their Insurance Policies
It is essential for insured individuals and businesses to regularly review their insurance policies to ensure they are adequately protected. This duty involves several key considerations: 1. Understanding Coverage Policyholders should familiarize themselves with the specifics of their coverage, including: Types of coverage provided Exclusions and limitations Coverage limits 2. Assessing Changing Needs As personal or business circumstances change, so do insurance needs. Regula

jamesvanharms
Dec 1, 20251 min read


Insurance & Risk Management Trends Every Middle-Market Leader Should Watch in 2026
The insurance market is no longer just about buying coverage — it’s about building resilience, protecting enterprise value, and using risk strategy as a competitive advantage. For middle-market companies ($10M–$500M revenue), the gap between proactive risk leaders and reactive buyers is widening fast. Here are the trends I’m seeing shape boardroom conversations across the country: 1. The “Softening Market” Isn’t Uniform Yes, some lines are stabilizing — but this is not a blan

jamesvanharms


Why Middle-Market Leaders Should Be Exploring Insurance Captives in 2026
A look down the street from our Steamboat Springs location - one of our favorite winter views For many middle-market companies ($10M–$100M in revenue), insurance has historically been treated as a fixed expense — something to negotiate once a year and move on. That approach is quickly becoming outdated. As premiums rise, underwriting tightens, and risk becomes more closely tied to enterprise value, forward-thinking leadership teams are asking a different question: Should we c

jamesvanharms


Strategic Consulting for Mid-Sized Companies: A Guide
In today's competitive landscape, mid-sized companies face unique challenges that require tailored strategies for growth and sustainability. Strategic consulting can provide the insights and frameworks necessary to navigate these complexities. This guide will explore the importance of strategic consulting for mid-sized companies, the key areas where it can make a difference, and practical steps to engage with consultants effectively. Understanding Strategic Consulting Strateg

jamesvanharms
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