Sanlam’s business engines: a look at the group’s 2025 performance
A breakdown of the results shows how the group’s main business clusters performed as it continues repositioning for growth across South Africa, Africa, and India.
Santam
Sanlam share dips after results despite strong operating growth
Sanlam reported record new business volumes and strong client inflows in 2025, but several weaker headline indicators drew investor attention following the results release.
Why Sanlam’s headline earnings fell despite strong business growth
Currency movements, bond market distortions, reinsurance losses, and strategic investment spending combined to weigh on Sanlam’s reported results.
Santam underwriting surge lifts profitability well above targets
Lower weather-related claims and disciplined pricing helped lift underwriting profitability in 2025, pushing margins above the insurer’s long-term target range.
Santam authorised to establish IFSC reinsurance office in India
The licence allows the insurer to operate as an International Insurance Office within India’s financial hub.
When AI goes wrong, liability still lands on humans
As AI reshapes workplace decisions, legal experts and insurers warn that professional indemnity and D&O exposure is rising fast.
A digitally enabled practice is key to broker success, says Santam
Technology adoption matters less than how well it is integrated into workflows, skills development, and client engagement in a complex insurance environment.
Hailstorms hit harder as climate shifts: farmers face rising losses and uncertain seasons
Shifting storm patterns and intensifying events are reshaping agricultural risk and making robust crop insurance indispensable.
Santam goes global: Lloyd’s approves Syndicate 1918 launch
South Africa’s leading short-term insurer is set to underwrite international property, marine, cyber, and more from January 2026.
Santam starts onboarding farmers under SA’s first parametric insurance licence
Parametric insurance offers smallholder farmers a lifeline against climate shocks, with payouts triggered by predefined weather events rather than traditional claims processes.
Road risks climb: Why clients can’t afford to skimp on car insurance
South Africa ranks 4th worst in the world for road safety, with rising accident claims underscoring the need for appropriate protection.
Sanlam’s new business up 7% as insurance and inflows offset flat life sales
The net result from financial services grew by 20% to about R8.08bn, with general insurance the standout in the six months to the end of June.
Santam’s GWP up 10% as international business surges by 25%
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.
Facing the future: how insurance is evolving to tackle uncertainty
Santam’s Thabiso Rulashe on how insurers are adapting to stay resilient – and profitable – in an era of rising risks.
South African insurers harness AI to spot risks sooner and serve clients better
From early-warning systems in liability cover to behaviour-based motor premiums, local insurers are adapting AI tools to South Africa’s unique risks.
Cyber threats: awareness high, but cover still low
Only a fraction of South African consumers and businesses have cyber cover, leaving a significant gap between awareness and protection.
Santam set to launch Lloyd’s syndicate this year
The anticipated gross written premium for 2026 is between R6.9bn and R9.2bn.
