
Santam keeps underwriting on target despite R1.5bn claims
Severe storms drove a sharp increase in large claims, but improved book profitability and underwriting discipline helped keep the margin above the target midpoint.

Severe storms drove a sharp increase in large claims, but improved book profitability and underwriting discipline helped keep the margin above the target midpoint.

The insurer anticipates additional claims from the recent storms in the Western Cape, although the full impact is not yet clear.

Lower weather-related claims and disciplined pricing helped lift underwriting profitability in 2025, pushing margins above the insurer’s long-term target range.

Youi delivered strong performance in Australia, but the rand’s appreciation trimmed rand-translated premiums.

For the six months to June, Santam reports net income growth of 19%, with a underwriting margin of 11.3% – well above its target range.

Non-life insurers bounced back from a loss of R16.7bn in 2022 to a profit of R13.7bn in 2023, while life insurers posted significant profit growth, says KPMG.

The group attributed the turnaround in motor insurance to managing claims inflation and improving risk selection, resulting in a significant reduction in claims frequency.