2025 Confirmed as Third-Hottest Year in Recorded History

Scientists have confirmed that 2025 was the third-hottest year in recorded history, trailing only 2024 and 2023. The data underscores a continued warming trend, with implications for energy markets.

Global temperatures remain a focal point for investors and policymakers, with energy demand patterns shifting in response to climate patterns. Analysts highlight the growing pressure on power systems, renewable energy portfolios, and gas supply chains amid increased frequency of extreme weather.

Meanwhile, the health insurance landscape in the U.S. has shifted due to the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies at the end of 2025. Initial data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services shows a drop in ACA enrollment, with around 1.5 million people dropping their coverage in early 2026.

What Are the Energy Market Implications?

Enverus, a leading energy data and analytics firm, has released its 2026 Global Energy Outlook. The report highlights increasing strain on power systems due to policy changes in 2025 and the ongoing shift toward renewable energy. Independent System Operators are tightening load forecasts using AI-driven models, while gas-fired generation mergers and acquisitions remain active according to the report.

Gas supply in the Permian Basin is expected to grow by approximately 1.1 billion cubic feet per day by year-end 2026, as pipeline expansions reach the Gulf Coast. The report also notes the saturation of battery storage in some markets, such as ERCOT.

Investor focus is shifting toward technologies with strong after-tax returns, including landfill-based renewable natural gas and carbon capture and storage. In contrast, hydrogen and manure-based RNG face headwinds due to weaker market signals and incentives.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

The property/casualty insurance industry continues to show improved underwriting results, with a strong direct loss ratio in the first nine months of 2025. AM Best attributes this to effective underwriting, pricing, and risk management practices, particularly in personal lines.

Slide Insurance Holdings has posted strong earnings results, with Q3 2025 EPS of $0.79 and a combined ratio of 48.5%. The company is expanding its policy portfolio and entering new markets in 2026, positioning itself for continued growth.

In Canada, Westland Insurance has acquired PV&V Insurance Centre Ltd., expanding its presence in Ontario and strengthening its agricultural and commercial insurance offerings. The acquisition aligns with the company's strategy to grow through both organic and strategic means.

How Are Policy and Regulatory Developments Shaping 2026?

Colombia has joined a growing list of countries implementing stricter crypto tax reporting rules, aligning with the OECD's Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework. The new regulations require platforms to collect and report detailed user and transaction data, effective for the 2026 tax year.

Geopolitical developments continue to influence energy and security strategies. U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his stance on securing Greenland, warning that failure to act could allow Russia or China to gain influence in the Arctic region.

Separately, the CIA has assessed that while Cuba's economy remains in a grim state, it is unclear whether the government will collapse. The agency highlights the potential for public unrest as economic hardship persists.

These developments collectively shape the 2026 financial and policy landscape, influencing energy markets, health care, and geopolitical strategy.