COVER Magazine

Sustainability in the financial advisor space depends on adaptability and embracing new models, says Barry Shrosbree, Senior Manager at 1Life Insurance Direct Sales.

A recent roadshow targeted independent financial advisors, highlighting technology's role in bridging the protection gap and fostering growth.

As the holiday season nears, Carina Thompson, Manager Complex Claims at MUA, shares insights on managing risks. Vigilance is crucial amid increased criminal activity. She provide some tips that brokers can share with their clients to manage their risk at home and on the road for a safer festive season.

In this interview, Tony from Cover Magazine speaks with Zahed Rassool, the CTO of My Glass, delving into the technology and processes that power the company. My Glass, a glass repair and replacement service, has leveraged technology to streamline its operations, from claim submission to client installation. They've developed an in-house solution that not only manages claims efficiently but also focuses on security and fraud prevention.

In this interview Zahed highlights how My Glass has eliminated paperwork entirely by digitizing their processes. Mobile devices are used for pre-inspections, ensuring the correct stock and materials are on hand for installations. He emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse stakeholder needs and running a user-centric approach. Zahed explains how they iteratively develop and release updates to adapt to the ever-changing industry landscape.

The interview also touches on the challenge of training diverse users, with My Glass prioritizing intuitive design and continuous communication to guide users effectively.

In this interview with Marike Van Niekerk, Manager at MUA Insurance, the focus was on the strategic advantages of specializing in the high-net-worth demographic. Historically recognized for specialist motor insurance, MUA has adapted to market shifts while maintaining a niche focus. Specializing allows MUA to tailor products, ensuring client satisfaction and loyalty. Marike highlights the benefits of niche markets, including addressing specific audience preferences and reduced competition. This approach extends to brokers, enhancing resource allocation and customer relationships. In a high-net-worth market, MUA leverages historical knowledge for accurate underwriting, demonstrating the power of specialization in building strong client relationships, fostering innovation, and thriving in competitive markets despite economic challenges.

Kashmira Naran, Insurance Partner at KPMG and co-editor of the 2023 Insurance Survey, gives a look into the dynamic changes shaping the South African insurance landscape with insights from the 2023 KPMG Insurance Survey.

As economic pressures and geopolitical uncertainties impact the industry, learn how insurers are resiliently adapting. The survey's central theme, "the power of human," highlights the industry's shift toward customer-centricity. Discover key challenges, including economic pressures, natural catastrophe events, and political uncertainties, and explore opportunities driven by technology and ESG initiatives. From embracing generative AI to transitioning from risk transfer to risk management through IoT technology, South African insurers are innovating. Despite fierce competition, the sector remains crucial to the country's economy, prioritizing relationships and customer-centric approaches for long-term success amidst a rapidly evolving landscape.

Lawrence Nazare, CEO of Continental Re, discusses the profound impact of climate change on the insurance and reinsurance sectors. Urges collaboration, proactive risk management, and evolving insurance models to navigate climate challenges.

In a recent interview, Marike Van Niekerk, Manager at MUA Insurance, highlights the pivotal role of client communication and education in fostering sustainability and affordability within the insurance industry. Emphasizing the importance of clear and transparent communication, Marike stresses its significance in meeting client expectations, managing risks, and enhancing the overall insurance ecosystem. The interview underscores the challenges posed by knowledge gaps among clients regarding risks and insurance products and the crucial role education plays in addressing these gaps. Marike also discusses how behavioral change, influenced by client education, can positively impact insurance premiums. Brokers, acting as intermediaries, play a vital role in effective communication, ensuring clients understand their rights and options. From a marketing perspective, Marike notes that effective client communication is not only a legal requirement but also a powerful tool for capturing audience attention and building brand loyalty, ultimately benefiting the entire insurance ecosystem.