Protection is the most profitable part of business. Life insurers will benefit from monetisation of opportunity in life-protection with rising awareness in post Covid, favourable demographics and reasonable costs. Penetration of protection is low at 10% of addressable population with scope for market to double in five years (+23% CAGR over three years).
Insurance stocks have fared well in the current environment due to their relative defensive nature as compared to banks/NBFCs. Recent growth trends are encouraging, significantly better than initial expectations. However, ability of insurance companies to deliver yoy stable/increase in VNB (Value of New Business) remains a crucial monitorable. Traction in protection business will provide tailwinds to all players. While capital market inflows / ULIPs will likely remain weak, ability of insurance companies to underwrite/scale up traditional business assumes importance. Better product-mix (higher protection & non-par savings share) should (more…)