The smart home could represent a holy grail for property insurers. However, although eagerly anticipated, it has yet to achieve mass market adoption for several reasons, including product development, consumer demand and device interoperability. This month we examine the progress being made in these fields by insurers and InsurTechs in China, as well as how the state is responding to the opportunities presented by the technology – in a country where the penetration rate of home insurance is just 1%. Taking us further in thought leadership this month Swiss Re’s Cindy Zhang and Cecilia Sevillano look abroad to explore the opportunities smart home presents for insurers in China and worldwide.