AXA targets AI-led growth under new strategic plan

AXA  has unveiled “Growing Forward,” its strategic plan for 2027 through 2029, focused on organic growth, artificial intelligence and prevention.

The French insurance group plans to scale AI across the insurance value chain to improve underwriting, operational efficiency and customer service. It will also make prevention a larger part of its products and services as it responds to technological risks, climate change, rising healthcare costs and aging populations.

AXA is targeting annual underlying earnings-per-share growth of 7% to 9% between 2026 and 2029, along with an underlying return on equity of 15% to 17%. It expects approximately €25 billion in cumulative organic cash upstream during the three-year plan and is maintaining a target payout ratio of 75%.

For 2026, AXA expects underlying EPS growth and return on equity to land at the top end of its existing target ranges of 6% to 8% and 14% to 16%, respectively.

“With ‘Growing Forward,’ we are building the AXA of tomorrow: a high-performing and competitive AXA, an innovative AXA that listens to its customers’ needs, an AXA that contributes to a more resilient and inclusive society. We are confident we can deliver consistent earnings growth and create long-term value for our shareholders.” – CEO Thomas Buberl.