COVER Magazine

Beyond the AI Hype: The True Focus of Digital Transformation

AI is a hot topic in insurance, but real digital transformation goes far beyond just implementing AI tools. Graham Harvey, CEO of Cardinal, emphasises that insurers must start with business needs—such as fraud prevention and process automation—before determining if AI is the right solution. Legacy systems remain the backbone of insurance operations, and integrating AI requires collaboration with system providers. Additionally, challenges like cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and workforce reskilling must be addressed. Ultimately, successful digital transformation is about rethinking business processes strategically rather than blindly adopting new technology. 

Revolutionising the Funeral Insurance Industry: Insights on the SAFIS Summit

The funeral insurance industry is evolving, but challenges in compliance, fraud prevention, and innovation remain. In this insightful discussion, Marius Brits, CIO and Co-founder of 360 Administration Systems, unpacks the key pain points and solutions shaping the industry. From the role of technology in policy administration to the need for greater education and transparency, this conversation sets the stage for the upcoming SAFIS Summit. Whether you're a broker, insurer, or funeral parlour owner, this episode provides valuable insights into the sector’s pressing issues and future opportunities.

The Origin of KEU: Pioneering Entertainment Insurance in South Africa

KEU, a leading UMA in South Africa’s entertainment insurance sector, celebrates 24 years of innovation and personal connections. Founded by Denise Hattingh, KEU emerged during a pivotal shift in the insurance market, becoming a trusted name for event and film risk coverage. As Denise explains, “Each risk is unique, whether it’s aerial artists or liability claims.” Marketing lead Iola Edmayr highlights the importance of balancing digital tools, like broker portals, with personal touchpoints. The upcoming rebranding and website refresh, launching in early 2025, signals KEU’s commitment to staying relevant while fostering meaningful broker relationships.

Demystifying Premium Finance: A Guide for Policyholders and Brokers

Sachin Govender, Managing Director at Fulcrum Premium Finance, unpacks the concept of premium financing, a solution that offers structured payment methods for annual insurance premiums. He explains its wide-ranging benefits for policyholders, brokers, underwriters, and insurers, such as improved cash flow, reduced administrative burdens, and faster premium collection. Govender highlights the growing demand in sectors like heavy commercial vehicles, where high premiums necessitate financing options. He emphasises Fulcrum’s quick approval process, with quotes delivered in under a day, and a customer-focused approach, enabling clients to optimise their cash flow while brokers enhance their value proposition through flexible payment options. 

FNB Insure’s Approach to Health and Financial Security

In this episode, FNB Insure’s Product Portfolio Lead, Balesh Raniga, delves into the importance of affordable health insurance for South Africans. He explains FNB’s innovative approach, from the Health Cash Plan to Gap Cover, designed to provide essential financial support during health events.  
Balesh also shares insights on FNB’s goal to move beyond the “grudge purchase” mindset by making insurance accessible and meaningful. Tune in to learn how FNB Insure is addressing the unique challenges of South Africa’s insurance landscape and bridging the gaps in health funding, even for those who aren’t traditional medical scheme members.

Momentum Insure’s Journey: Insights from CEO Brand Pretorius

Momentum Insure has undergone a significant transformation since its acquisition of Alexander Forbes Insurance in 2019/2020. In this discussion with Momentum Insure’s CEO Brant Pretorius, he fills us in Momentum Insure’s journey and transformation since this acquisition.  
Despite industry challenges such as climate change, inflation, and failing infrastructure, Momentum Insure has successfully realigned its strategy. With a focus on claims ratio improvement, cost reduction, and digitalisation, the company has achieved remarkable growth and profitability.  
Pretorius highlights the importance of intermediaries in this journey, emphasising their evolving role in providing advice and leveraging technology. Looking ahead, he says that the company remains committed to maintaining profitability, driving growth, and fostering strong partnerships with intermediaries.

The Future of Premium Collection: A Conversation with Fulcrum’s Tech Team

Jade Jensen, MD of Fulcrum Group South Africa, and Dave Stevens, CTO, explore Fulcrum’s new Air Collect model. They discuss the complexities of premium finance and how Air Collect is transforming the collection process for brokers and insurers.  
Jade and Dave explain the technical and operational advantages of Air Collect, which consolidates collections and streamlines payment distributions. This innovative solution minimises risks, reduces administrative burdens, and simplifies monthly reconciliations for brokers.  
If you're in the insurance industry, this podcast provides valuable insights into how Fulcrum’s solutions can enhance efficiency and mitigate financial risks. 

Generational Insights in Insurance Claims

Nic Smit, from Bidvest Life, shares key insights from their annual claims report, offering a generational perspective on insurance needs. Millennials are 55 times more likely to claim for income protection than death benefits, highlighting a critical gap in awareness and coverage. Smit emphasises the need for financial advisers to adapt their approaches to reach younger clients and discusses innovative solutions, such as combining critical illness benefits with income protection for improved claims experiences. Additionally, he highlights their impressive claims payout ratios and quick turnaround times, showcasing Bidvest Life’s commitment to supporting policyholders in times of need. 
 

Innovating Reinsurance: Insights from Jephita Gwatipedza, Zep Re

Jephita Gwatipedza, COO of Zep Re, highlights the evolving reinsurance landscape across Southern Africa. Despite challenges like economic constraints and localised regulatory shifts, opportunities are emerging in micro-insurance, agriculture insurance, and parametric solutions. Zep Re’s initiatives include World Bank-backed agricultural insurance projects and innovative products like collateral replacement indemnities to enhance insurance accessibility. Skills development remains a priority, with the RI Academy training over 22,000 professionals in five years. Jephita underscores the need for local expertise and international collaboration to unlock the region's growth potential while addressing critical risks such as flooding and emerging threats like cyber risks. 

Driving Excellence Through People and Processes at My Glass

Join Tony from COVER as he chats with Gary Stieger, CEO of My Glass, about their recent award win and the drivers behind their success. Gary shares insights into how My Glass delivers exceptional service through passionate teams, robust systems, and a culture of continuous improvement. Learn how My Glass balances the needs of insurers, brokers, and clients while maintaining a 98-99% customer satisfaction rating. With a strong network of service providers and innovative systems, My Glass is redefining service standards in the fitment industry.