A recent survey by Gallagher has revealed that U.S. business owners are increasingly worried about various risks that could impact their operations in the coming year. Conducted with 1,000 business owners, the survey highlights significant concerns over cyberattacks, supply chain disruptions, and severe weather events.
According to the findings, 72% of respondents expressed fears about cyber threats, while 69% were concerned about issues related to their supply chains and severe weather. This growing anxiety reflects a broader trend among business owners who are feeling the pressure of external risks.
In 2024, nearly 87% of business owners with insurance filed claims, with 73% of those claims exceeding $25,000. The most common types of claims were related to property, employment practices liability, cyber incidents, and flooding. Gallagher’s analysis pointed to a rise in business interruption risks, driven by inflation and an increase in cargo theft, which has made risk management more critical for companies that rely on intricate logistics.
The survey also noted a worrying trend in cyber risks; in 2025, 72% of business owners were concerned about cyberattacks, up from 69% in 2024. In response, 36% of those surveyed are looking to either acquire or expand their cyber insurance coverage. Additionally, data showed a staggering 431% increase in supply chain cyberattacks from 2021 to 2023, highlighting the urgent need for businesses to address these vulnerabilities.
Gallagher’s research also found that 90% of business owners are closely monitoring the impact of tariffs on their operations. Tariff-related supply chain challenges are adding to the operational uncertainty many businesses face.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is another area of concern. The survey revealed that 93% of business owners are worried about AI’s potential effects on their businesses, a notable increase from 85% the previous year. Many believe that stronger regulations and protections are necessary to mitigate the risks associated with AI misuse. Despite these concerns, 46% of respondents plan to invest more in AI technologies to enhance their operations.
Supply chain issues remain a pressing risk, with 75% of business owners stating they have contingency suppliers in place. Investments in supply chain resilience include technologies like AI, machine learning, and automation. Last year, 68% of business owners expressed concerns about potential disruptions in their supply chains.
Severe weather is another significant worry, with 57% of business owners considering relocating their businesses or investing in more resilient facilities. Flooding, in particular, was identified as a primary threat by 35% of respondents. However, only 30% currently have flood insurance, leaving many potentially vulnerable.
In response to weather-related claims, many business owners have taken steps to fortify their properties against risks like floods, fires, and hurricanes. Gallagher’s chairman and CEO, J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., emphasized the importance of proactive planning and risk modeling to safeguard operations against these unprecedented risks.
As businesses continue to face a landscape filled with uncertainties, the need for comprehensive risk management strategies has never been more crucial.