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.
Underwriting
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.
Investment performance drives PPS member payouts to record levels
The mutual insurer reports R5.56bn in investment returns compared with R1.32bn in operating profit, while higher claims put pressure on underwriting performance.
EV fire risk: low probability, high impact – and rising relevance for insurers
Rare but complex EV fire incidents are forcing insurers to rethink pricing, claims, and underwriting models.
Rejected claims expose behavioural risk in motor insurance
Motor insurance data shows most rejected claims are still driven by preventable driver behaviour, with direct implications for underwriting, advice and client risk.
Geopolitical conflict | South African insurers urged to reassess exposure
An interconnected conflict environment is driving risks, with local insurers advised to review policy wording, reinsurance arrangements, and portfolio concentrations.
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.
Medical scheme vs medical insurance: the risk conversation advisers can’t avoid
In this edition of Cover to Cover, we unpack the structural, regulatory, and underwriting differences that advisers must clarify before recommending either healthcare funding option.
How the HCSTI shapes confident, career-ready brokers
MBSE top achievers share how the HCSTI turns ambition and experience into long-term growth in short-term insurance.
Tracking failures could void theft cover as year-end vehicle crime rises
Discovery Insure warns that inactive or faulty tracking devices may leave motorists without hijacking or theft protection.
From spouses to parents: understanding medical scheme dependants
This edition of Cover to Cover explains medical scheme dependant rules, required documentation, and how advisers can help clients keep their families covered.
Non-life insurers deliver strong performance in 2024 – KPMG survey
Disciplined underwriting, improved claims experience, and robust investment income helped non-life insurers to navigate structural headwinds.
Life insurance sector consolidates its recovery in 2024
KPMG’s survey shows broad improvement across major life insurers, driven by moderate premium growth, stronger investment returns, and efficiency gains.
Old Mutual lifts earnings by 29% on strong markets and underwriting gains
Results from operations rose 16% to R4.94bn in the six months to June, boosted by a 71% surge in Old Mutual Insure’s contribution.
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.
