The conversation with Xavier Durand, Group CEO of Coface, explores how credit insurance is evolving at a moment when AI acceleration, shifting trade flows and new market frontiers are reshaping the industry. Durand reflects on the sector’s long history of adapting to technological change and explains why AI now represents a strategic discipline rather than a passing trend. He also highlights the vast global opportunity in SMEs and emerging markets, where credit insurance remains largely untapped and misunderstood.

Across the discussion, Durand shares a grounded view of global trade’s resilience despite geopolitical pressures, noting that “trade is like water; it finds a way”. As the industry marks its centenary, he outlines the dual challenge ahead: deploying advanced technology with purpose while proving the value of credit insurance to businesses that have yet to adopt it. This episode offers a clear, expert perspective on where the next century of growth will come from.