Tue, 20th May 2025

In this episode of Paige Estritori's financial sector podcast, coverage centered largely on insurance industry news. The Australian Financial Complaints Authority dismissed fraud allegations against Auto & General Services, in a case reminding insurers of the importance of properly backed allegations. Meanwhile, Asgard, Westpac's investment platform, announced significant hikes in premiums in response to rising claims and operational costs. ClearView, having transitioned from wealth management to become a “pure play life insurance company”, reported a significant increase in gross premium income and total inflow premiums, along with investments into a new technology platform, ClearChoice. The podcast concluded with a spotlight on a survey from NobleOak, revealing a rise in life and income protection policyholders despite general cutbacks, and noted a persistent gender gap in financial confidence. The evidence indicated life insurance as a top priority for Australians in current economic conditions.