Swiss Re says the outlook for the insurance industry remains positive as the market continues to improve.

“Increasing prices are expected to be particularly beneficial for property and casualty reinsurance and corporate solutions,” the company told an investors’ day.

“In addition, increasing interest rates will have a positive impact on the group’s investment portfolio and benefit the long-tail lines in life and casualty reinsurance.”

Swiss Re says it is still in negotiations with Japanese company SoftBank, which may take a stake of up to 10% in the reinsurer.

The two groups are also exploring areas of strategic co-operation.

“These discussions remain at an early stage, and there is no certainty that any minority investment or strategic partnership will be agreed,” Swiss Re said.

The reinsurer says it has a strong focus on research and development and the effective use of technology.

“I am convinced it will blur industry boundaries and shift insured risks between insurance lines,” CEO Christian Mumenthaler said. “Swiss Re’s tech strategy aims to access new risk pools and manage existing ones more effectively.”