International insurance and risk management firm Allianz Trade has upgraded Azerbaijan’s country risk rating from C1 to B1, citing shifting global trade conditions and disruptions linked to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The Munich-based global financial services company Allianz has reported that economic growth in Azerbaijan slowed in 2025 but is projected to accelerate in 2026.

The combined market value of the world’s top 10 insurance companies has fallen 3.9% since the start of the year, shedding $57.3 billion in the first eight months, according to companiesmarketcap.com.

Allianz reported a stronger-than-expected 13% rise in Q2 net profit, reaching €2.84 billion, surpassing analyst forecasts of €2.76 billion.

Football Australia (FA) has threatened to withdraw high-profile World Cup and Asian Cup qualifiers from Sydney’s Allianz Stadium due to serious concerns over pitch quality and inadequate preparation windows.