Stewart Enhances Virtual Underwriter with Secure Access, Advanced Search, and AI-Powered Support

Enhancements reinforce Stewart’s long-standing commitment to underwriting quality, trusted expertise, and technology innovation

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Stewart Information Services Corporation (NYSE: STC) today announced enhancements to Stewart Virtual Underwriter® (VU), the company’s industry-leading underwriting knowledge resource, including secure login access, enhanced search functionality, and the introduction of an AI-powered Virtual Underwriter Agent, VU Explorer. These updates reflect Stewart’s continued investment in technology that supports accuracy, efficiency, and confidence across the entire real estate transaction process.

For more than 30 years, Stewart Virtual Underwriter has served as a comprehensive and trusted resource, enabling title professionals to access underwriting guidance and reference materials needed to successfully complete closings. Beginning in December of 2025, the Virtual Underwriter website moved behind a secure login, providing exclusive access for Stewart employees, customers, and partners while establishing a foundation for expanded functionality.

“Virtual Underwriter has long been one of Stewart’s most valuable resources, built on decades of underwriting knowledge and expertise,” said Iain Bryant, Group President – Stewart Agency Services. “These enhancements represent a meaningful evolution of the platform by strengthening security, improving how users find information, and thoughtfully introducing AI to support our agents, all while maintaining the high standards of quality and flexibility Stewart is known for.”

As part of the enhancements, Virtual Underwriter now features improved search capabilities designed to help users more quickly locate relevant manuals, bulletins, and reference materials. In addition, Stewart has introduced a Virtual Underwriter AI Agent, VU Explorer, capable of answering users’ straightforward questions on demand using Stewart’s trusted underwriting manuals, guidelines, and proprietary resources.

“The Virtual Underwriter AI Agent is designed to support, not replace, underwriting judgment,” said Wilhelmina Kightlinger, Stewart Chief Underwriting Counsel. “It helps users navigate our extensive knowledge base more efficiently while reinforcing Stewart’s commitment to thoroughness, accuracy, and responsible use of technology. This is about elevating the user experience and supporting quality decision-making. AI is only as powerful as the content and expertise it’s built around, and VU Explorer is powered by Stewart’s expert underwriters.”

“Stewart’s Virtual Underwriter has become a strategic asset for our team at Sun Title,” said Kara Chan, Director of Operations, Sun Title. “By delivering consistent platform improvements like their great new VU Explorer AI Agent and verified, state-specific guidance with full source transparency, it empowers our examiners to operate with confidence and precision – confident of Stewart’s commitment to our success. It’s a modern solution that strengthens the accuracy and efficiency required in today’s dynamic market.”

These enhancements reflect Stewart’s broader strategy to leverage its unparalleled underwriting legacy while continuing to invest in modern technology, including AI, to better serve agents and partners. Stewart expects to continue expanding Virtual Underwriter’s capabilities as part of its long-term commitment to leading innovation across the title and real estate services ecosystem.

Agents with existing Stewart Connect credentials can use the same login to access Virtual Underwriter. Customers who do not currently have Stewart Connect access can request access at virtualunderwriter.com.

About Stewart

Stewart (NYSE-STC) is a global real estate services company, offering products and services through our direct operations, network of Stewart Trusted Providers™ and family of companies. From residential and commercial title insurance and closing and settlement services to specialized offerings for the mortgage and real estate industries, we offer the comprehensive service, deep expertise and solutions our customers need for any real estate transaction. At Stewart, we are dedicated to becoming the premier title services company and we are committed to doing so by partnering with our customers to create mutual success. Learn more at stewart.com.