COVER Magazine

Navigating Financial Futures with Elke Brink - PSG Wealth.

n this interview, Tony from Cover speaks with Elke Brink, a wealth advisor at PSG Consult. Elke discusses her unexpected path to a career in finance, her educational journey, and the impact of earning her CFP designation. She shares insights on building client trust, particularly as a young female advisor, and the importance of continuous learning in the ever-changing financial landscape. Elke emphasizes the significance of starting early to build a client book and maintaining a holistic understanding of financial planning. The discussion also touches on the benefits of working with a reputable brand like PSG Wealth.

Mind Shift Series: Deep Dive into Agricultural Insurance with Western National's Jan-Hendrik Botha

In this episode of the Mind Shift series, Tony interviews Jan-Hendrik, head of underwriting at Western National Insurance, about the challenges and importance of agricultural insurance. They discuss the current state of insurance penetration in the farming community, the evolving risks due to operational changes like diversification into processing and manufacturing, and the significance of full disclosure. The conversation emphasizes the crucial role of brokers in helping farmers understand and mitigate risks, ensuring comprehensive coverage and compliance with regulations. Specific issues such as non-disclosure, joint ventures, and the integration of new infrastructure like solar panels and cold storage are also covered.

In-Depth: Understanding Risk Surveys in the Insurance Industry with Gavin Horne

Join Tony from Cover as he engages in a comprehensive discussion with Gavin Horne, a seasoned senior underwriter at R&SA, about the importance of risk surveys in the insurance industry. Throughout their conversation, Gavin sheds light on the intricacies of conducting risk surveys, the critical role they play in assessing and pricing insurance, and the responsibilities of insurers, brokers, and clients in this process. Gain valuable insights into how thorough risk assessments lead to better-informed underwriting decisions, improved insurance terms, and enhanced client relationships. Don't miss this in-depth exploration of one of the most vital aspects of modern insurance.

Momentum's Stellar Year: Jeanette Marais on Leading Success

In this episode, Tony from Cover interviews Jeanette Marais, Group CEO of Momentum, discussing the company's exceptional financial results and strategic initiatives. Jeanette highlights the diversified success of Momentum's nine businesses, with notable achievements despite minor setbacks in Africa. The conversation touches on the company's impact strategy, emphasis on collaboration across business units, and efforts to grow its advice footprint. Jeanette also talks about the turnaround in the short-term insurance segment and shares insights into the future of the industry amid economic and political uncertainties. The interview underscores the importance of financial advice and Momentum's commitment to client-focused strategies.

Income Continuation: The Cornerstone of Financial Security - Daniel Stoch, Discovery

In this discussion, Tony from Cover interviews Daniel Stoch, Head of Research and Development at Discovery, focusing on the growing significance of income continuation benefits in the insurance industry. Daniel emphasizes the essential role of income protection, particularly for younger individuals, by outlining that future income is a significant financial asset that should be safeguarded. He discusses industry trends and claim statistics, revealing that Discovery paid out substantial amounts in income protection claims and holds significant reserves for ongoing claims. They also touch on the types of common claims, such as musculoskeletal issues and cancer, and the impact of these claims on different age groups. The conversation highlights the importance of holistic financial planning, combining life cover, disability cover, severe illness cover, and income protection. Additionally, the positive impact of Discovery’s Vitality program on reducing claim risks and promoting healthier behaviors is discussed.

Building Bridges in Estate Solutions: A Discussion with Steve Piper

In this conversation, Tony from Cover interviews Steve Piper, head of underwritten intermediary sales at Hollard Life Solutions, about their new product, Hollard Estate Solutions. The innovation aims to simplify estate planning for financial advisors and clients by providing a comprehensive, digital, and user-friendly platform. This platform not only creates a will but also calculates the cost of death and the impact on the family, helping advisors offer better, more informed advice. The discussion delves into the market needs, the challenges of estate planning, and the alarming statistics of South Africans without valid wills. The platform is designed to reduce administrative burdens on advisors, offering optionality in executorship, and ensuring an ongoing review of clients' estate plans to adapt to changes in their lives.

Bridging Legacy Systems with Digital Solutions: The Sapiens Approach

In this episode, Brent sits down with Kali Bagary,  VP for Business Development – Africa and Nordics, at Sapiens, to discuss significant breakthroughs in AI-driven data migration for insurers. They delve into how AI is reducing risks, costs, and time for complex legacy data migrations, particularly in long-term insurance policies. The discussion covers the benefits of clean, accurate data for operational efficiency, cross-selling, and customer experience. They also explore the challenges of integrating legacy systems with digital portals and the new skills required to leverage these opportunities, with a look at exciting developments Sapiens is working on, including a fully automated digital platform and innovative underwriting solutions.

Advisor Challenges and Opportunities: Daniel van Andel's Perspective

In this episode, Tony interviews Daniel van Andel, Head of Platform and Advisor Proposition at Allan Gray, to discuss the current challenges and opportunities facing financial advisors in South Africa. They explore findings from a recent industry barometer report, touching on topics such as compliance, succession planning, fee structures, business growth, technology adoption, and the evolving role of behavioral coaching in financial advice. Daniel shares insights on how advisors are adapting to regulatory changes, leveraging technology, and focusing on their core value to clients. The conversation provides a comprehensive look at the trends shaping the advisor landscape and offers practical perspectives for professionals navigating this dynamic industry.

Mind Shift Series Brokers and Beyond: Darryl Grater Explores New Paths in Insurance Distribution

In this episode of "Mind Shift Series," host Tony from Cover interviews Darryl Grater, Chief Growth Officer at Discovery Insurer and Vitality Drive International. They discuss the evolving landscape of insurance distribution in South Africa, highlighting the central role of brokers, the impact of technology and data-driven solutions, and the increasing regulatory and compliance challenges facing the industry. Darryl emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships between insurers and brokers, the need for specialized and client-centric approaches, and the growing focus on risk management and advisory services. The conversation also explores how both large and small brokers are adapting to digital transformation and the ongoing shift in client expectations.

Exploring Guidewire’s Impact on the Broker Industry

In this episode, Tony interviews Leo Holesgrove, Guidewire’s South Africa lead, about the evolving role of brokers in the insurance industry and how Guidewire’s technology is shaping their future. They discuss the increasing demand for digital, seamless insurance experiences, and how Guidewire’s platforms help brokers streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance client relationships. Leo shares real-world case studies from Canada, Argentina, and the UK, illustrating how Guidewire’s solutions have driven broker engagement and satisfaction globally. The conversation also explores future trends such as automation, AI, and omnichannel engagement, emphasizing the importance of robust, flexible platforms for brokers to remain competitive and deliver value in a rapidly changing environment.