While the FTSE 100 index has climbed this year, the Aviva (LSE: AV.) share price hasn’t participated in the rally. Year to date, it’s down about 9% (versus a near-5% gain for the Footsie).

So, what’s going on here? And is now a good time to consider buying?

A new risk for Aviva and its shareholders

This may sound strange, but I think the share price fall here is related to AI fears. In the same way that software stocks have been hit by disruption fears recently, insurance stocks are now in the firing line.

One reason for this is that AI stands to empower consumers, enabling them to find the absolute lowest price in the market for the insurance policies they need with minimal…