Adviser Shortage and Policy Shifts Impact Life/Risk Market
Adviser Shortage and Policy Shifts Impact Life/Risk Market
2
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
The decline of life/risk advisers paired with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority's (APRA's) intervention in the Individual Disability Income (IDII) insurance sector imposes fresh challenges on the market, hinting at recovery only intermittently.
Recent insights from Dexx&r, a specialist research organization, depict a significant effect of governmental policies on Australia’s life/risk market, shaking even the traditionally sturdy group insurance subset.
Dexx&r's latest analysis shows a mere 0.4% rise in total risk in-force premiums for the year concluding in December 2023, reaching $16.5 billion.
Interestingly, new individual risk lump sum businesses declined by 5.4%, revealing the broader implications of the prevailing market conditions.
This market turbulence is further highlighted by the increase in individual lump sum discontinues, which escalated to 10.1% by December.
In a stark contrast, new disability income business saw a 7.3% rise during the same year, hitting $451 million, up from $420 million in the prior year.
The attrition rate for Disability Income business is on an upward trajectory, climbing from 9% in December 2020-just before APRA introduced new disability income products-to higher levels following the product releases in 2021.
Significantly, Dexx&r highlighted a 1% decrease in in-force group business for the year ending December 2023. This contraction points to the impact on premium receipts connected to default covers for superannuation funds.
“The introduction of the Protecting Your Super measures led to a reduction in members with default cover; nonetheless, overall premium receipts surged due to re-pricing of existing benefits,” Dexx&r stated.
Total In-force Group Risk Premium witnessed a small dip of 1%, lowering from $7.1 billion in December 2022 to $7.0 billion by December 2023.
TAL maintains its lead with a 32% market share, followed by AIA Australia, Zurich, and MLC Life.
Published:Friday, 17th May 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
The Australian insurance industry is preparing for a downturn in profitability after achieving a decade-high return on equity (ROE) of 19% in the 2024-25 financial year. This peak performance was driven by robust underwriting results, substantial investment returns, and a period of relatively low natural disaster claims. However, industry analysts predict a six-point decline in ROE to 13% for the current financial year, bringing it back within the typical target range of 10% to 15%. - read more
The Australian insurtech sector is demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability, with many startups reporting significant growth and successful market expansion. A recent survey of Insurtech Australia members reveals that companies generating annual revenues between $1 million and $10 million have experienced a 30% increase in revenue. Additionally, there has been a 10% rise in investment from private backers, indicating strong confidence in the sector's potential. - read more
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia are facing mounting challenges due to escalating insurance premiums. A recent report by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Insurance Council of Australia, highlights the urgent need for coordinated national reforms to address this pressing issue. - read more
In a significant move to enhance safety within the Australian agricultural sector, WFI Insurance has announced a partnership with Farmsafe Australia. This collaboration is designed to raise awareness about farming hazards and advocate for the adoption of safer work practices among farmers. - read more
Argis Underwriting has announced a new partnership with Newcastle-based Pacific International Insurance, enabling the company to resume offering farm insurance coverage across Australia. This development comes after Argis ceased providing new business and renewal terms on its Farm Extra Insurance in April, following the conclusion of a five-year arrangement with HDI Global Specialty. - read more
As the landscape of finance and personal security evolves in Australia, the importance of being insured has never been more prominent. In a world of changing family dynamics, economic pressures, and higher living costs, life insurance stands as a bastion of support ensuring the well-being of loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances. - read more
Life insurance is a crucial part of any comprehensive financial plan, providing peace of mind that your loved ones will be financially secure in the event of your passing. - read more
Life insurance is a crucial consideration for middle-aged to older Australians. It provides financial security for your loved ones in the unfortunate event of your death. Understanding the various options available is vital to making an informed decision. - read more
The horizon of the insurance industry has undergone a transformative shift with the advent of digital technology. With a few clicks, consumers can navigate the once-complex world of insurance policies from the comfort of their home. The digital landscape for insurance services offers unprecedented access to information, comparisons, and instant communication, fostering a more empowered insurance client. - read more
Life insurance can seem complex at first, but understanding the basics can help demystify this important financial product. At its core, life insurance is a contract between you and an insurer, where the insurer promises to pay a designated beneficiary a sum of money upon your passing, in exchange for premium payments. - read more
Start Here !
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!
Knowledgebase
No-Fault Insurance: A type of car insurance where your insurer pays for your damages regardless of who is at fault in an accident.