The race to reach a fire before it becomes a total loss
Private firefighting networks, connected smoke detectors, and faster emergency response are giving insurers new ways to limit losses before flames engulf a home.
Insurance
Can AARTO make better drivers – and smarter underwriting?
Old Mutual Insure says demerit points could eventually influence underwriting, but only if they prove to be a reliable predictor of insurance risk.
Could AARTO eventually affect your insurance premium?
SAIA says international precedent exists, but insurers will need years of reliable data before drawing any conclusions.
Refundable ‘premium’ sinks taxpayer’s insurance deduction
The High Court finds that most of the payment was a recoverable, interest-bearing deposit rather than expenditure incurred for genuine insurance cover.
Santam joins insurers rewarding claim-free customers with cashback
The new programme pays qualifying policyholders 10% of premiums back after claim-free periods, reflecting the growing use of rewards to build customer loyalty.
Living benefits dominate claims among under-30s
Discovery’s claims data highlights how illness and disability can disrupt a young adult’s financial future long before retirement planning begins.
Income protection dispute turns on 10% increase versus CPI cap
The Appeal Tribunal found that voluntary pre-claim benefit increases were distinct from post-claim escalation and could not be used to support a fixed 10% increase.
NFO’s only non-life final ruling of 2025 turns on theft, not ‘missing items’
Even though the SAPS case was marked ‘unfounded’, the NFO held this did not prove there had been no theft, and the policy claim fell within cover on the facts.
CPD deadline days away: MBSE highlights immediate-access course options
Professionals still have time to complete any outstanding hours, but they should avoid leaving enrolment to the weekend.
OneSure uses AI to tackle operational complexity across insurers
The brokerage says InsureBot assists with policy interpretation and comparisons, while accountability stays with authorised staff.
Clearer communication can prevent many motor insurance disputes
The NFO says proactive disclosure, better underwriting conversations, and stronger intermediary oversight will benefit customers and insurers alike.
On-site fuel storage may create hidden insurance exposures
GIB Insurance Brokers says firms storing larger fuel volumes on-site should ensure insurers are informed and that sums insured reflect the increased exposure.
Referral fees and FAIS: when a lead becomes intermediation
The High Court’s decision shows how commission-style lead arrangements can be characterised as FAIS intermediary services, with enforceability consequences.
Momentum expands group cover access for HIV-positive members
The revised approach extends access to higher levels of death, disability, and income protection cover for qualifying members.
Santam names head for new India reinsurance business
The GIFT City operation, together with the Lloyd’s syndicate and Avatar acquisition, is part of the group’s move to broaden its risk base and underwriting capabilities.
Trust is an insurance broker’s ‘moat’ in the digital era
Santam’s Fanus Coetzee says the real value of an intermediary is not at sale, but when a client needs clarity, reassurance, and help after a loss.
Naked’s ChatGPT app signals where insurance distribution may be heading
The insurtech says the new app is a step towards a future where AI assistants could help consumers to manage and automate parts of their insurance decisions.
