As the insurance industry continues to evolve, digital innovation is proving to be a powerful force in expanding access to inclusive insurance.
This transformation has been particularly impactful for low-income populations that have historically lacked access to traditional insurance products. Fintech innovations-especially mobile platforms, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence (AI)-are playing a crucial role in increasing insurance penetration, making coverage more affordable, accessible, and scalable for underserved populations.
This blog explores how digital platforms, mobile insurance, and blockchain technology are helping to increase insurance penetration for low-income populations in 2024. It will also highlight the successes and challenges encountered in utilizing technology for microinsurance and inclusive insurance products, particularly in emerging markets.
Mobile Insurance: Closing the Protection Gap
In the developing world, mobile insurance platforms have emerged as one of the most effective tools for expanding access to insurance, particularly for underserved communities in rural and remote areas. Mobile penetration in regions such as Africa and Southeast Asia has been significantly higher than traditional banking access, making mobile devices an ideal channel for delivering financial products, including insurance.
BIMA and M-TIBA: Success Stories in Mobile Insurance
A prime example of successful mobile insurance is BIMA, which operates in emerging markets across Asia and Africa.
BIMA offers health, life, and accident insurance through mobile technology, allowing low-income users to access affordable insurance products. By partnering with mobile operators, BIMA enables users to pay their premiums via mobile wallets, making insurance accessible to those without bank accounts (Allianz X).
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Esta historia es de la edición October 2024 de THE INSURANCE TIMES.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
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International News
Saudi Arabia's Insurance Market Poised for Transformation - Saudi Arabia's general insurance market is on a trajectory of rapid growth, with gross written premiums expected to rise from SAR 68.8 billion ($18.4 billion) in 2024 to SAR 105.3 billion ($28.1 billion) by 2029, reflecting a CAGR of 8.9%. This growth is driven by regulatory reforms, economic diversification, and increased consumer awareness of risk management.
Life Insurance News
HDFC Life Insurance Reports Data Breach - HDFC Life Insurance recently disclosed a data breach, adding to the growing list of Indian insurers facing cybersecurity threats. The breach, revealed in a regulatory filing, prompted the company to launch an extensive investigation with information security experts to safeguard customer interests.
Health Insurance News
Star Health Launches 'Star Arogya Digi Seva' to Enhance Rural Healthcare - In a bid to revolutionize rural healthcare, Star Health Insurance unveiled its latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, 'Star Arogya Digi Seva,' in collaboration with the Center for Chronic Disease and Control (CCDC). The initiative aims to provide essential healthcare services to underserved rural areas by leveraging telemedicine technology and Mobile Health Units (MHUS).
Insurance Regulator Update
IRDAI Calls for More Players in the Insurance Sector - IRDAI Chairman Debasish Panda has called for more conglomerates to enter the insurance space, emphasizing the immense opportunities offered by India's vast population of 1.4 billion. Panda urged private equity funds, institutional investors, venture capitalists, and family offices to explore the insurance market, highlighting that the current 70 insurers in the country are insufficient to meet growing demands.
General Insurance News
Tier 2 and 3 Cities Propel Growth in Motor Insurance - The rise in private consumption in India has positioned tier 2 and 3 cities as key drivers of growth in the motor insurance segment. Increasing vehicle ownership and heightened awareness of insurance have fueled this expansion, according to a report by InsurTech platform Turtlemint. These cities accounted for over 90% of motor insurance policies sold and the premium volume during the festive season this year.
"Bancassurance is at the heart of our growth strategy. It allows Bandhan Life to reach more customers and provide accessible, trusted insurance solutions through a familiar network."
About Indranil Dutta - Indranil Dutta brings 23 years of experience in insurance, banking, and sales, with a specialization in bancassurance. As the Chief Business Officer - Bancassurance at Bandhan Life Insurance, he leads the banca sales channel and plays a key role in driving the company's strategic vision of becoming a leading multi-channel life insurer with an expanded presence across product categories.
IRDAI Corner
The Eighth Bima Manthan, the quarterly meeting of IRDAI with the insurance industry was held on 11th and 12th November 2024, in Hyderabad
International Conference on Inclusive Insurance (ICII) 2024
The 20th edition of the International Conference on Inclusive Insurance (ICII) concluded on a high note in Kathmandu, Nepal, after five days of insightful discussions, interactive workshops, and collaborative networking. Hosted by the Nepal Insurers' Association in partnership with the Life Insurance Association Nepal, Nepal Micro Insurance Association, Nepal Insurance Authority, Munich Re Foundation, and the Microinsurance Network, the conference brought together around 500 participants from around the globe. The Insurance Times was the media partner in the event.
How to choose a Health Insurance Plan that fits your evolving needs
When you are single, you might focus on plans with basic coverage and low premiums. As you get married, look for family floater plans that cover your spouse. When you have children, ensure the plan covers pediatric care, vaccinations, and other child-specific healthcare needs.
My View on #20SIRC Conference
The participants include world top reinsurers, brokers, insurers, IT companies, Consultants, and Regulators. As a regulator from Nepal attending the (#20SIRC) was a unique thrilling experience that provided opportunities for learning, networking, and strategic development. Here's a detailed perspective that I had experienced during my visit to Singapore.
