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Bulletin February 2023

Bulletin February 2023

Mar 10, 2023

In this first Bulletin for the year 2023, I would like to wish everyone well for the year ahead. The South African Insurance Association is ready to face the year with more rigor and determination. I invite you, all our members, stakeholders, and the industry as a whole to unite and walk with us in this journey to continue to strengthen the non-life insurance industry.

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SAIA sponsors 300 learners to participate in a financial literacy programme in Soweto

SAIA sponsors 300 learners to participate in a financial literacy programme in Soweto

Dec 15, 2022

Johannesburg - The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) participated as a sponsor of the Soweto Financial Literacy Competition which took place 5 – 9 December 2022 by providing 300 learners between the ages 10-14 with the funds to participate in the competition. This competition forms part of a bigger project aimed at improving the level of financial literacy in South Africa through an award winning online financial literacy program, MoneyTime, a product of MyLife, a Wealth Creator platform.

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Be Vigilant, Don’t Give Away Too Much this Holiday Season

Be Vigilant, Don’t Give Away Too Much this Holiday Season

Dec 15, 2022

Johannesburg – The December holiday period is generally a time when most businesses close enabling people to travel to their loved ones in other provinces to celebrate the holidays as a family unit, while others find their little corner to unwind by the beach.

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Bulletin November 2022

Bulletin November 2022

Nov 30, 2022

The year 2022, like the two before it, came with its own challenges for South Africans and the industry alike. The ripple effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the global economic challenges, loadshedding, high fuel prices and the rising costs of living have continued to be some of the many challenges the majority of us have had to contend with in the past year.

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Bulletin October 2022

Bulletin October 2022

Oct 31, 2022

Like the other two or so previous years, this year also came with its own unique challenges that tested the industry’s resilience and resolve to deliver on its promise.

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Bulletin September 2022

Bulletin September 2022

Sep 30, 2022

The South African Association of Engineering Insurers SAAEI, a division of SAIA, will be hosting its fourth 4th annual conference on 13-14 October 2022 at the Kloofzicht Lodge and Spa, Krugersdorp, Gauteng.

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Bulletin July 2022

Bulletin July 2022

Jul 31, 2022

In the last week of July 2022, South Africa witnessed President Cyril Ramaphosa making an announcement of an energy action plan to end rolling blackouts and possibly transform the electricity sector in South Africa, which several stakeholders from civil society, organised business, and academia have passed comments on.

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Media Release - FIC Accountable Institutions

Media Release - FIC Accountable Institutions

Jul 20, 2022

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has welcomed the decision by the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) to not include the non-life insurance industry as accountable institutions under the FIC Act.

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Bulletin June 2022

Bulletin June 2022

Jun 30, 2022

s the cold begins to bite, load-shedding continues to be the story of our lives in South Africa. For more than 14 years, electricity generation and supply have been interruptive to both the business fraternity and domestic consumers, but most importantly, a major concern for the insurance industry.

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Bulletin May 2022

Bulletin May 2022

Jun 21, 2022

s the cold begins to bite, load-shedding continues to be the story of our lives in South Africa. For more than 14 years, electricity generation and supply have been interruptive to both the business fraternity and domestic consumers, but most importantly, a major concern for the insurance industry.

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Bulletin April 2022

Bulletin April 2022

Apr 30, 2022

Following the floods disaster that took place in the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal during the Easter weekend, most residential houses or properties impacted are yet to be restored as insurers continue to work meticulously to ensure that policyholders get the attention they deserve during this challenging period.

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Media Release KwaZulu Natal Floods April 2022

Media Release KwaZulu Natal Floods April 2022

Apr 14, 2022

The devastation and loss of lives following the recent floods in KwaZulu-Natal marks the worst natural disaster ever experienced in South Africa. More than 300 people have been confirmed dead, and the figure is set to go higher as rescue workers continue to comb through the debris. An estimated 140 schools are affected, electrical substations submerged, power lines severed, and roads and bridges destroyed. The damage to infrastructure in KZN after the 2019 flash floods was estimated at R1.1 billion yet estimates for this this one already exceeds that.

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Bulletin March 2022

Bulletin March 2022

Apr 08, 2022

The prevalence of underinsurance has become more evident over the last few years. This was amplified by the losses suffered due to fires and floods in KwaZulu Natal, but perhaps more particularly, the losses resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic, and the ensuing business interruption (BI) claims. These phenomena continue to expose the gulf between insurers and the policyholders’ understanding of the extent of their risk exposures.

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Bulletin February 2022

Bulletin February 2022

Mar 05, 2022

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s maiden budget tabled on 24 February 2022 offered somewhat of a relief by subduing tax rises and repositioning other personal taxes, especially for ordinary households which have been under extreme pressure over the last few years.

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SAIA Climate Change Webinar 2022

SAIA Climate Change Webinar 2022

Feb 02, 2022

Significant changes in weather patterns over the last decade have led to flood disasters, droughts, and wildfires. This has cost both government and the private sector, especially the insurance industry billions of Rands collectively.

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Bulletin November 2021

Bulletin November 2021

Dec 13, 2021

The year 2021 was a year of mixed fortunes for different industries as corona virus restrictions remained in force, albeit in relaxed form in some countries. Some industries continued to shed employees as demand for their products slowed.

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Bulletin October 2021

Bulletin October 2021

Nov 03, 2021

In his letter to the nation dated 11 October 2021, the President of South Africa, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, stated that it is no exaggeration to say that the world is facing a climate crisis of unprecedented proportions.

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Expired licence? See what the insurance industry says

Expired licence? See what the insurance industry says

Aug 26, 2021

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has received new enquiries from concerned motorists about how insurers would treat motor vehicle claims where the insured person’s driver’s licence has expired after 31 August 2021.

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SAIA calls for extreme vigilance during public unrest

SAIA calls for extreme vigilance during public unrest

Jul 12, 2021

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has observed with concern the looting of businesses, damage to property and infrastructure, and the barricading of roads and damage to vehicles due to the civil unrest currently sweeping across South Africa’s provinces.

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Bulletin June 2021

Bulletin June 2021

Jul 09, 2021

As the third wave of Covid-19 rages through South Africa’s economic hub, Gauteng, and the rest of South Africa, both public and private hospitals have reported an unprecedented demand for hospital beds.

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Bulletin May 2021

Bulletin May 2021

Jun 01, 2021

The government kicked off its phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccinations in earnest during May 2021, with minimal people in the 60+ age group registering discontent. It is pleasing to know that the government had progressed from the “talk and planning” to execution mode.

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Bulletin April 2021

Bulletin April 2021

Apr 30, 2021

During April we celebrated Earth Day and our President, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, joined some more than 40 world leaders at a climate summit convened by US President, Mr Joe Biden, to discuss the global climate change effort in the run-up to the next international climate conference taking place in Glasgow, Scotland in November 2021. Reporting back, the President stated that indeed there was a common appreciation at the summit that there was a need for the international community to dramatically scale-up efforts, raise levels of ambition, and support other developing countries with the means to implement climate actions.

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Bulletin March 2021

Bulletin March 2021

Mar 31, 2021

In its report titled: Economic Conditions Outlook, March 2021, global consulting firm, McKinsey, states that despite the weak demand that continues to threaten corporate growth globally, the Covid-19 pandemic remains the biggest risk to overall economic growth.

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SAIA calls on consumers to review policies ahead of holidays

SAIA calls on consumers to review policies ahead of holidays

Mar 29, 2021

At the end of March last year, the Government, responding to the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, placed the country at Level 5 lockdown. Only essential workers could move about. Here we are, 12 months down the line, and the country sits on Level 1

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February Bulletin 2021

February Bulletin 2021

Feb 28, 2021

As we wind down the year 2020, global communities remain firmly engaged in several Covid-19 pandemic prevention and recovery programmes aimed at minimising its socio-economic impact. The lockdown of global economies because of the pandemic resulted in the permanent shut down of thousands of businesses, millions of people losing their jobs, and over 1.4m global deaths.

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January Bulletin 2020

January Bulletin 2020

Jan 31, 2021

As we wind down the year 2020, global communities remain firmly engaged in several Covid-19 pandemic prevention and recovery programmes aimed at minimising its socio-economic impact. The lockdown of global economies because of the pandemic resulted in the permanent shut down of thousands of businesses, millions of people losing their jobs, and over 1.4m global deaths.

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November Bulletin 2020

November Bulletin 2020

Nov 30, 2020

As we wind down the year 2020, global communities remain firmly engaged in several Covid-19 pandemic prevention and recovery programmes aimed at minimising its socio-economic impact. The lockdown of global economies because of the pandemic resulted in the permanent shut down of thousands of businesses, millions of people losing their jobs, and over 1.4m global deaths.

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October Bulletin 2020

October Bulletin 2020

Oct 31, 2020

The end of October 2020 saw the Hon. Minister of Finance, Mr Tito Mboweni finally giving the Mid-Term Budget Policy Speech (MTBPS) which had been earlier postponed.

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September Bulletin 2020

September Bulletin 2020

Oct 06, 2020

South Africans were elated by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address on 16 September 2020, announcing that our nation would effectively be shifting gears to Alert Level 1 at midnight on Sunday 20 September. This announcement, which had long been anticipated by business, gave rise to a new glimmer of hope as preparations to further open many other economic sectors which had been restricted began in earnest. It was indeed music to the ears of our fellow hospitality and tourism industry counterparts who have suffered immensely during the lockdown that began at the end of March 2020.

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SAIA Media Release- SAIA Successfully Holds Annual General Meeting

SAIA Media Release- SAIA Successfully Holds Annual General Meeting

Jul 27, 2020

Johannesburg – At its first ever virtual Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 23 July 2020, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) successfully nominated a new SAIA Board of Directors composed of non-life insurance member companies, reinsurance companies and state-owned enterprise chief executives and managing directors

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SAIA Media Statement- Covid-19

SAIA Media Statement- Covid-19

Apr 06, 2020

The non-life insurance industry is fully committed to supporting the measures put in place by State President, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, together with the Government of South Africa to protect South Africans and attempt to contain the spread of COVID-19. The industry plays an important role in the economy and commit to support staff, clients/policyholders and suppliers to the industry as much as possible during these difficult times.

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MEMBER NOTICE: SAIA STAFF WORKS REMOTELY

MEMBER NOTICE: SAIA STAFF WORKS REMOTELY

Mar 27, 2020

In support of the announcement made by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 23 March 2020, that ordered the entire nation into a full lockdown in a bid to slow down the rate at which the COVID-19 virus is spreading in South Africa, SAIA employees will, with immediate effect work remotely in the safety of their homes.

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POSTPONEMENT NOTICE: SAIA BREAKFAST SESSION 2020

POSTPONEMENT NOTICE: SAIA BREAKFAST SESSION 2020

Mar 18, 2020

Following the national disaster declaration made by the President of South Africa, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, on 15 March 2020 around the spread of the coronavirus, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has decided to postpone the SAIA Breakfast Session which was to be held on 19 March to a later date in May 2020. Should the restrictions still be in place at that time, we will reassess the event and inform the industry accordingly.

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Nico Esterhuizen Resigns from SAIA after almost ten years

Nico Esterhuizen Resigns from SAIA after almost ten years

Dec 09, 2019

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) would like to announce the resignation of its General Manager: Insurance Risks, Mr Nico Esterhuizen who will be leaving the association at the end of December 2019. After more than 9 years at SAIA, Mr Esterhuizen has decided to pursue other interests which he is extremely passionate about, in the NGO space.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin November 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin November 2019

Dec 09, 2019

The year is finally coming to an end and the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has tirelessly worked through the challenges faced by the industry, actively collaborating with valued stakeholders within the sector to achieve and maintain a sustainable non-life insurance sector.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin October 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin October 2019

Nov 01, 2019

In response to a request by the Financial Services Conduct Authority (then Financial Services Board) that industry bodies, namely the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), the Financial Intermediaries Association (FIA) and the South African Underwriting Managers Association (SAUMA)...

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin September 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin September 2019

Nov 01, 2019

At SAIA we believe that the SAIA Monthly Bulletin is a platform of paramount importance not only for SAIA, but also for the non-life insurance industry at large. Through this platform, SAIA will continue to deliver valuable and current information about our initiatives and any other issues that impact the non-life insurance industry.

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SAIA Board Elects New Chairman and Deputy Chairman

SAIA Board Elects New Chairman and Deputy Chairman

Sep 04, 2019

Johannesburg - The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) Board has announced Mr Cedric Masondo, Managing Director at Sasria (SOC) Ltd and Mr Herman Schoeman, Chief Executive Officer at Guardrisk Group (Pty) Ltd as its new Chairman and Deputy Chairman respectively.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin August 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin August 2019

Aug 29, 2019

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently signed the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Bill (AARTO) into law, effectively bringing to life the demerit system aimed at penalising drivers and operators who are habitual offenders of rules governing the use of public roads.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

Jul 31, 2019

The SAIA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Cocktail Function was successfully held on Thursday 25 July 2019, where a new SAIA Board was nominated to guide our organisation into the future. On behalf of the SAIA, its executive and staff, I would like to welcome the new SAIA Board, and believe that its expertise in a wide range of specialist fields in the financial sector will help the industry safely navigate through the numerous insurance risks it faces.

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SAIA Consumer Education Radio Programme Industry Experts- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

SAIA Consumer Education Radio Programme Industry Experts- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

Jul 31, 2019

The SAIA Consumer Education Radio Programme could not be a success without continuous support and contributions from the SAIA members, both financially and through proficient input from industry experts, which has had a profound impact on the scope of our projects. It is with this view that SAIA would like to recognise the contribution of two individuals who have gone beyond the call of duty to support our radio programme over the last two years.

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Insurance Database System- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

Insurance Database System- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

Jul 31, 2019

The Insurance Database System (IDS) is an information sharing platform established by SAIA for the benefit of the wider non-life insurance industry. The platform is aimed at combating fraud and managing risk within the industry. In its current format, IDS comprises of motor related information on personal lines claims and policy information, pooled by participating SAIA members of the non-life insurance industry.

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SAIA and NAAMSA ongoing discussions - SAIA Bulletin July 2019

SAIA and NAAMSA ongoing discussions - SAIA Bulletin July 2019

Jul 31, 2019

As part of the SAIA broad objective of finding solutions to lower the input cost of insurance, SAIA members and the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) meet regularly to discuss industry-specific challenges and seek solutions to agreed challenges.

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Business risks: New focus areas- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

Business risks: New focus areas- SAIA Bulletin July 2019

Jul 31, 2019

The SAIA Board reviews the SAIA strategy every three years to ensure that the focus areas remain relevant matters and for the foreseeing three years SAIA will continue to focus on transformation and matters relevant to insurance business being:

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin June 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin June 2019

Jul 08, 2019

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2019 State of the Nation Address themed “Let’s grow South Africa together as we celebrate 25 years of freedom” highlights key priorities for government over the next decade. Many of these initiatives will have a direct bearing on business and the sustainability of the non-life insurance industry.

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Engineering annual-paid-monthly - SAIA Bulletin June 2019

Engineering annual-paid-monthly - SAIA Bulletin June 2019

Jul 08, 2019

The purpose for the implementation of the Solvency Assessment and Management (SAM) framework is to protect the insured by enforcing regulations, therefore ensuring that insurance companies reserve adequate capital to meet short-term and long-term claims.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

Jun 07, 2019

The Ombudsman for Short-Term Insurance (OSTI) recently released its Annual Report on Operations for 2018. We value the role that the OSTI plays in providing consumers with a fair and transparent dispute resolution mechanism when it comes to non-life insurance disputes and welcome the report as it provides important information which offers relevant insight into the conduct of our industry with regards to complaints.

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Interim Guidelines on the salvage of motors- Bulletin May 2019

Interim Guidelines on the salvage of motors- Bulletin May 2019

Jun 07, 2019

Certain NaTIS coding and salvage practices in the non-life insurance industry might not align with the Regulation 13A of the National Road-Traffic Act (Act 93 of 1996). This resulted in SAIA and the Insurance Crime Bureau (ICB) engaging with the Department of Transport (DoT) to seek a solution to ensure compliance and practicality.

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Towing and Consumer Rights- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

Towing and Consumer Rights- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

Jun 07, 2019

SAIA was recently invited to participate in a SABC 1 Consumer Affairs show which looked at consumer issues regarding towing. The focus was not only on the insured market but also the ordinary man on the street who might require towing services.

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Update on the Financial Intelligence Centre’s (FIC) proposal to include non-life insurers as Accountable Institutions- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

Update on the Financial Intelligence Centre’s (FIC) proposal to include non-life insurers as Accountable Institutions- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

Jun 07, 2019

As an interim measure whilst Deloitte conducts the risk assessment on money-laundering (ML) and terrorist financing (TF) risks in the non-life insurance industry, the SAIA Board agreed at its meeting on 4 March 2019 for SAIA members to enter into an agreement with the FIC, whereby members will share information with the FIC on request, using the FIC’s go-AML reporting tool.

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Transformation at the African Insurance Exchange- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

Transformation at the African Insurance Exchange- SAIA Bulletin May 2019

Jun 07, 2019

The issue of transformation has long been a hot topic in our industry. What is unquestionable is that we’re all committed to a transformed economy. What is often less clear is how to go about achieving it. It sometimes seems like such a big task that it leaves us reeling. But if we go about it one small project at a time, it really is achievable.

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SAIA welcomes Joburg fire station upgrades

SAIA welcomes Joburg fire station upgrades

May 20, 2019

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) welcomes the announcement by the City of Johannesburg’s Public Safety Department that it has invested R16,4-million in upgrades to nine of the city’s fire stations. The upgrades are expected to be completed before the end of May 2019.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin April 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin April 2019

May 02, 2019

The Minister of Transport, Dr Blade Nzimande, announced a 41% decrease in road fatalities over the Easter holiday period. The Minister noted that there were 104 road fatalities nationally this year compared with 504 deaths during the same period last year. However, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) reported that at least 549 drivers were arrested for various offences during the holidays, with 312 arrested for drinking and driving.

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Update on the Financial Intelligence Centre’s (FIC) proposal to include non-life insurers as Accountable Institutions- SAIA Bulletin April  2019

Update on the Financial Intelligence Centre’s (FIC) proposal to include non-life insurers as Accountable Institutions- SAIA Bulletin April 2019

May 02, 2019

Following Deloitte’s appointment as the service provider to conduct the risk assessment on Money Laundering (ML) and/or Terrorist Financing (TF) risks that may exist in the non-life insurance industry (the industry), Deloitte developed a risk universe which they researched through their global network and facilitated a workshop to validate the findings of the risk universe. Representatives at the workshop included members of SAIA, the Financial Intermediaries Association (FIA), South African Underwriting Managers Association (SAUMA), Insurance Crime Bureau (ICB), the FIC, Prudential Authority and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Apr 15, 2019

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) Board recently met to deliberate on the key focus areas of our business for the next three years. In considering our focus areas, the Board also noted the challenging economic conditions within which the whole financial sector has been operating under over the past decade.

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Business for Road Safety 2019-2020- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Business for Road Safety 2019-2020- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Apr 15, 2019

In January 2019, the Business for Road Safety Forum (BRS) approved its 2-year strategy which is to be implemented effective 2019. This strategy is in alignment with the South African National Road Safety, and its intended at making a measurable impact within the last 2 years of “the decade of action”.

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Underwriting Practices- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Underwriting Practices- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Apr 15, 2019

Recent years have shown a substantial increase in losses within the personal and commercial property classes of business of insurers in South Africa. Classes mostly affected include fire, business interruption, buildings and assets. The majority of the causes of these losses have been attributed to changing weather patterns and the severe water scarcity being experienced in many areas. Flooding of highways, severe hailstorms, tornado’s, wildfires and drought conditions across several provinces are some of the contributing factors.

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Conduct of Financial Institutions Bill, 2018- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Conduct of Financial Institutions Bill, 2018- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Apr 15, 2019

A Technical Expert Panel was convened in December 2017 to provide comment and input into the initial draft of the Bill produced by the drafting team. This Panel comprised of members selected by the National Treasury (NT) or nominated by various industry associations including SAIA, based on participants’ knowledge and expertise in the area of market conduct policy and regulation.

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NON-DISCLOSURE- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

NON-DISCLOSURE- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Apr 15, 2019

Good faith (Bona fides) is the cornerstone of insurance. It follows that the contract between the insured and the insurer should be one of good faith. Insurance policies are underwritten based on the information disclosed to the underwriter by the proposer regarding the risk to be insured. The proposal form contains numerous questions, and the underwriter will use the answers provided to assess and establish the extent of the risk and the terms they are prepared to accept the risk. Proposal forms are not necessarily exhaustive, and the proposer has an obligation to disclose any additional information which may influence the decision of the underwriter.

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Managing Fire #1 in ASIB series- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Managing Fire #1 in ASIB series- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Apr 15, 2019

Risk management (and linked to that, mitigation) is increasingly becoming an area of concern for brokers, insurers and reinsurers as recent losses have resulted in large insurance claims. With the many issues facing the fire and insurance industries at present (including a lack of water in the Western Cape) it is crucial that all stakeholders remain committed to ensuring best practices are followed when it comes to the design and installation of sprinkler systems.

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The launch of the Know Your Cash Campaign- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

The launch of the Know Your Cash Campaign- SAIA Bulletin March 2019

Apr 15, 2019

Financial literacy and consumer education have become a significant complement to market conduct and prudential regulation. Therefore, SAIA seeks to continue enhancing financial knowledge and understanding of future financial sector consumers with the intention of improving their confidence when making financial decisions and interacting with the sector products and services.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin February 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin February 2019

Mar 05, 2019

The month of February saw two major scheduled events, the State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 7 February and the Budget Speech delivered by the Minister of Finance, Mr Tito Mboweni on Wednesday 20 February 2019. The non-life insurance industry, like all other industries, operate in the broader social, political and economic environment and is therefore dependent on a sustainable broader environment. Therefore, much of what SAIA does relate to the sustainability of the industry, as well as the broader environment.

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Response to the 2019 National Budget- SAIA Bulletin February 2019

Response to the 2019 National Budget- SAIA Bulletin February 2019

Mar 05, 2019

Like the 2018 Medium-term budget policy statements (MTBPS) this budget was very closely watched with many hoping for clarity on future direction. There appears to be more questions than answers in the current environment and more groups with different views and interests than what the fiscus can allow.

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Preventative measures can reduce the spreading of veld fires and damage to property

Preventative measures can reduce the spreading of veld fires and damage to property

Feb 27, 2019

Johannesburg, 27 February 2019 – Runaway fires can be devastating as lives and property can be lost. Nothing can ever prepare one for the consequences of an unplanned, sporadic and ravaging wildfire. In the last few years, South Africa has witnessed several devastating veldfires that have cost the non-life insurance industry billions of Rands. In 2017, a devastating firestorm in the southern Cape engulfed large parts of Knysna, Brenton-on-Sea and parts of Plettenberg Bay, destroying over 1 000 properties in its wake and leaving behind almost 10 000 people evacuated and seven deaths.

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The impact of load shedding on South African consumers

The impact of load shedding on South African consumers

Feb 21, 2019

Johannesburg, 21 February - Businesses and households were left scrambling to keep the engines and the lights on after the national power utility, Eskom, suddenly plunged South Africa into darkness over a week ago. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday last week, Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan alluded to the fact that Eskom was facing structural, operational and financial challenges.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin January 2019

From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Jan 30, 2019

Generally, when the year comes to an end, most of us take some well-deserved time off to travel far and wide to spend time with loved ones and family - while some remain at home to keep the candles burning - but also taking it easy and resetting for 2019. Either way, I am sure that we are well-rested and now rearing to take the challenges coming with the new year head on.

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Insights from the FinScope SA 2018 Study for non-life insurers- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Insights from the FinScope SA 2018 Study for non-life insurers- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Jan 30, 2019

Non-life insurance product penetration and its use has remained low and to some extent stagnant over the years. By the end of 2018, eNaTIS statistics indicated that there were about 12, 5 million live vehicles on South African roads, however, the number of such vehicles being insured has remained low at range of between 35% and 37%. This presents challenges for the non- life insurance industry as it implies that only 1 out 3 cars on the road is covered in the event of an accident or any other event that could lead to the loss or damage of the vehicle.

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How the industry can support the Motor Body Repairer National Grading Standard? - SAIA Bulletin January 2019

How the industry can support the Motor Body Repairer National Grading Standard? - SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Jan 30, 2019

t’s been nearly two years since SAIA, in collaboration with its members and Motor Body Repairer (MBR) associations, started the project to certify MBRs for out of warranty repair work. The standard was a concerted effort from various players in the insurance and MBR industries to have one MBR standard that SAIA members could use when on-boarding MBRs to their preferential procurement panels.

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Intermediaries Guarantee Facility - SAIA Bulletin January 2019 Edition

Intermediaries Guarantee Facility - SAIA Bulletin January 2019 Edition

Jan 30, 2019

The following update is intended to explain the latest developments at Intermediaries Guarantee Facility Limited following changes to the Short-Term Insurance Regulation, that was published on 28 September 2018.The regulations provide that a credit intermediary is no longer required by law to hold a financial guarantee. Rather the authorities expect insurers and the market to in future manage the relevant risks facing them in respect of credit risk.

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Update on the Financial Intelligence Centre’s proposal to include non-life insurers as Accountable Institutions- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Update on the Financial Intelligence Centre’s proposal to include non-life insurers as Accountable Institutions- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Jan 30, 2019

The NLI delegation responsible for engaging with the FIC on the proposal to include non-life insurance (NLI) into the realm of accountable institutions, has completed its review of potential service providers, for the risk assessment agreed to with the FIC. The objective of this risk assessment is for a third party to highlight to the FIC and the insurance industry potential money laundering (ML) and terrorism financing (TF) risks within the entire NLI environment.

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2018/19 Festive Preliminary Road Crash Results?- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

2018/19 Festive Preliminary Road Crash Results?- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Jan 30, 2019

Every year, thousands of lives are lost in South Africa as a result of road accidents. Sadly, for the 2018/2019 festive period, which is the period between 01 December 2018 to 08 January 2019, the number of road fatalities recorded are 1612. These statistics were announced by the Minister of Transport, Dr Blade Nzimande, on 16 January 2019. These statistics have further derailed the country from achieving its “decade of action” target, which is aimed at reducing the number of road fatalities by half.

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Compulsory specification for hot water storage tanks (geysers)- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Compulsory specification for hot water storage tanks (geysers)- SAIA Bulletin January 2019

Jan 30, 2019

Effective 12 August 2016, the Minister of Trade and Industry (Minister) declared amendments to the compulsory specification for hot water storage tanks for domestic use (VC 9006). However, the Minister declared the effective date of clause 3.2 of VC 9006 to be 12 August 2017. Clause 3.2 of VC 9006, which is now in operation, demands that fixed storage water heaters have a minimum energy efficiency rating of class B when tested in accordance with SANS 151.

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Holiday tips: Safe Driving

Holiday tips: Safe Driving

Dec 04, 2018

Johannesburg - The holiday season is fast approaching, and across the country, thousands of motorists are preparing to pack their cars and either head home or to their holiday destination.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin November 2018

From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin November 2018

Dec 03, 2018

As we begin to wind down the year, it is only normal that we take stock of our accomplishments and the challenges we all faced and navigated through the year. Our industry certainly faced a myriad of challenges, from regulatory to transformation, which we have carefully navigated in collaboration with all our valued stakeholders.

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SAIA Stakeholder Relations and Communication - SAIA Bulletin November 2018

SAIA Stakeholder Relations and Communication - SAIA Bulletin November 2018

Dec 03, 2018

During the change process at SAIA a few years ago, a member survey that sought to investigate how best we could communicate and share information between SAIA and its members was conducted and the outcome of that exercise was that a possible deployment of member company representatives, whose responsibility will be to receive information from SAIA and effectively channel or redistribute it to relevant departments within member companies to be referred to as SAIA Champions, could be of great assistance.

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Guide to Car Safety Features - SAIA Bulletin November 2018

Guide to Car Safety Features - SAIA Bulletin November 2018

Dec 03, 2018

The Automobile Association of South Africa (AASA) together with the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) released the 2018 crash test results, on 2 November 2018. The results were based on four car models currently on offer to the South African consumer. The test videos and car safety ratings were alarming considering the extent of damage to the vehicle and injury of occupants when the cars where test-crashed at a speed of 64km/h.

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Underwriting at Claims Stage

Underwriting at Claims Stage

Nov 02, 2018

The National Treasury recently raised concerns regarding the practice by insurers of verifying only at claims stage information provided by policyholders at the underwriting stage.

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Response to the Medium-term budget policy statement: 2018

Response to the Medium-term budget policy statement: 2018

Nov 02, 2018

In what was probably one of the more anticipated Medium-term budget policy statements (MTBPS) new Minister of Finance, Mr. Tito Mboweni had several very challenging and complex matters to consider. These included high unemployment, national debt, corporate governance failures at some Government departments, especially at municipality level and at some State-owned enterprises (SOEs), as well as the risk of further down-grades of South Africa’s credit rating, to name a few.

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The Draft Code of Conduct for Competition in the Automotive Aftermarket

The Draft Code of Conduct for Competition in the Automotive Aftermarket

Nov 02, 2018

The Competition Commission commenced with advocacy work in the automotive aftermarket in 2016 to address complaints received by them regarding of the practices perceived as unfair. This resulted in the publication of a draft “code of conduct for competition in the automotive industry” in 2017.

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Financial Inclusion within the Short-term Insurance industry

Financial Inclusion within the Short-term Insurance industry

Nov 02, 2018

Financial Inclusion has remained topical within the financial sector, as the majority of the previously disadvantaged individuals are still involuntarily excluded from accessing some of the products and services within the financial sector leading to very little traction in terms of improving the quality of life of an average South African.

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Developments in Driving Transformation of the Financial Sector

Developments in Driving Transformation of the Financial Sector

Nov 02, 2018

In advancing the transformation agenda in the sector and prioritising the transformation objective, the Financial Sector Charter Council “FSC”, as announced, was renamed to the Financial Sector Transformation Council “FSTC” (the Council). The announcement followed the decision by the Council’s board to reconstitute the organisation to refocus its mandate on driving and monitoring transformation of the financial sector.

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SAIA Stakeholder Relations and Communication

SAIA Stakeholder Relations and Communication

Nov 02, 2018

The promotion of the role the short- term insurance industry plays in the sustainability of the economy and jobs can never be downplayed. As an industry, we ensure that consumers, individuals and commercial entities are financially secure. It is this security that draws attractive investments into our country, thus promoting employment and economic growth in line with national government aspirations.

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Consumer Education Update

Consumer Education Update

Nov 02, 2018

The SAIA Consumer Education Fund has seen a successful implementation of its 2017-18 projects, thanks to the support from members and the Financial Inclusion Committee.

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Road Safety: What is good driver behaviour?

Road Safety: What is good driver behaviour?

Nov 02, 2018

The South African October Transport Month is here and the Business for Road Safety (BRS) Forum views this as the perfect window to promote road safety in the country. In preparation, SAIA has met with several stakeholders from both the private and public sectors to initiate a magnitude of unified communication across various social media platforms, encouraging good driver behaviour.

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Proposed Amendment to Schedule 1 of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act, 2001 (Act 38 Of 2001) (FICACT)

Proposed Amendment to Schedule 1 of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act, 2001 (Act 38 Of 2001) (FICACT)

Nov 02, 2018

Following the Financial Intelligence Centre’s (FIC) proposal to include certain businesses or institutions that perform certain categories of activities which are currently completely outside the scope of the FIC Act with a view to potentially including them in Schedule 1 to the FIC Act including but not limited to, non-life insurers and intermediaries, a FIC Woking Group on non-life insurance business was formed.

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Joint operation launched to stem vehicle cloning syndicate

Joint operation launched to stem vehicle cloning syndicate

Nov 02, 2018

A joint “Search and Seizure Operation” is currently being conducted by members of The Insurance Crime Bureau, The South African Police Services (SAPS) and The National Anti-Corruption Unit of the Road Transport Management Corporation (RTMC), resulting in the temporary suspension of services at the Rand West Municipal Vehicle Registration Centre in Westonaria.

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SAIA and AMUSA host the International Union of Marine Insurers Annual Conference

SAIA and AMUSA host the International Union of Marine Insurers Annual Conference

Nov 02, 2018

It all started some 9 years ago when the International Union of Marine Insurers (IUMI) announced that South Africa would be hosting their annual insurance conference in 2018 – the first time ever on African soil in 144 years. Since then, SAIA and AMUSA has been working tirelessly on putting together a world class event which would live up to the standards this community has become accustomed to.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin August 2018

From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin August 2018

Sep 04, 2018

Time is indeed flying! I cannot believe we are almost done with 2018 Q3. Our industry has remained a major player in a number of wide ranging projects and initiatives that positively contributes towards our country’s economic growth. Our members remain very active in several initiatives that enable mega projects, undoubtedly making us a key stakeholder in the economic development of our country.

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Risk Management - an essential enabler of the Role of the Brokers in SA

Risk Management - an essential enabler of the Role of the Brokers in SA

Sep 04, 2018

Are Engineering and Property Insurance Brokers responding with effective strategy adaptation to occurrences and changes in the South African risk management landscape? Lately it has become critical for the Engineering business sector. Brokers in particular to manage client risk beyond the scope of the available insurance coverage.

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Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) Registration Process: Fire Protection System Practitioner (FPSP)

Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) Registration Process: Fire Protection System Practitioner (FPSP)

Sep 04, 2018

The effort to commence the Fire Protection System Practitioner registration process (feasibility study and draft policy) started in mid-June 2004 originally. ECSA had been receiving municipal requests from 2015 to supply endorsement letters for fire engineers operating in South Africa (SA). There is currently no undergraduate degree offered in the field of fire engineering in SA.

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Fighting Fire by Managing Risk

Fighting Fire by Managing Risk

Jul 20, 2018

Property and business interruption losses as a result of wildfire have increased dramatically in South Africa. Managing fire risk is every property owner’s responsibility as experts warn that the world is becoming warmer and drier, increasing the chances of unwanted wildfire.

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A post-Section 45, Regulation 4, landscape

A post-Section 45, Regulation 4, landscape

Jul 03, 2018

There have been several important developments with regards to a post- Section 45,Regulation 4, landscape, including that the Intermediaries Guarantee Facility Limited (IGF) will continue with normal business operations until at least the amendments to the Regulations of the Short-Term Insurance Act, 53, 1998 become effective.

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Insurance Data System (IDS)

Insurance Data System (IDS)

Jul 03, 2018

The contract with TransUnion, including annexures, has undergone a thorough review and we are now at the point where the revised documents can be circulated to the IDS Steering Committee for comment. The process going forward will allow for a commentary period of two weeks by the IDS Steering Committee, followed by discussions with TransUnion and a planned finalisation date, for sign off by the parties, of 30 August 2018.

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Removal of Support Insurance in Construction Projects

Removal of Support Insurance in Construction Projects

Jul 03, 2018

A common misunderstanding is that the liability section of the Construction Risks policy would provide cover in the event that a Contractor/Builder causes damage to adjacent third party property, or injury to third parties, due to the removal of support from such property.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin June 2018

From the Desk of the Chief Executive - SAIA Bulletin June 2018

Jul 03, 2018

We are facing the second half of the year and it is exciting to see how much has been achieved thus far. There has been a lot of work put in by SAIA and the Board in the last six months to ensure the sustainability of our industry. We have continued to collaborate extensively with external bodies in business and in government to achieve industry objectives as determined by the Board.

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Multilingual Financial Terminology List

Multilingual Financial Terminology List

Jun 12, 2018

The Financial terminology project was initiated by the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC) in collaboration with the Financial Services Board (FSB). The project was identified around 2015 and its focus was to develop an English source text in the first phase of the project. The second phase was aimed at providing target term equivalents in the other 10 official languages, namely: Sesotho, Setswana, Sepedi, Tshivenḓa, Xitsonga, isiNdebele, Siswati, isiZulu, isiXhosa and Afrikaans. The target language equivalents provided in the 10 official languages will be used to promote and facilitate the implementation of consumer financial awareness and education projects.

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VAT Increase 15%

VAT Increase 15%

May 21, 2018

The following questions and answers have been compiled to provide guidance in respect of the impact of the change in VAT rate on short-term insurance transactions. It has been prepared in accordance with the VAT Act, Short-term insurance specific SARS Binding General Rulings (BGR14, BGR32 and BGR37), Regulatory requirements and the common approach to the change to be applied across the industry.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- May 2018 Bulletin

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- May 2018 Bulletin

May 09, 2018

The Nedlac Financial Sector Transformation Workshop took place on the 5th and 6th of April, 2018. It was well-attended by our senior executives including CEOs from our member companies. The SAIA delegation agreed that despite the fact that agreements were not yet reached and cemented, the two days spent at the workshop were time well spent. Listening to the issues and perceptions other constituencies have with regards to the Financial Sector first hand was indeed valuable.

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2nd Nedlac Financial Sector Summit

2nd Nedlac Financial Sector Summit

May 09, 2018

While it was unfortunate that the 2nd Nedlac Financial Sector Summit did not take place on the 5th and 6th of April 2018 as it was anticipated, it is pleasing to note that the two days were still utilised effectively, with the Nedlac constituencies coming together and utilising the time as part of the negotiations build up to the Summit instead.

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Launch of the Trainee Inspector Pilot Programme

Launch of the Trainee Inspector Pilot Programme

May 09, 2018

SAIA is excited to announce the successful launch of the Trainee Inspector Internship Programme. Phase 1 of this Programme, a six-week work readiness programme, in partnership with Harambee has already been completed. From this phase 20 candidates were selected from the original 30 to continue into Phase 2, a 6-month Trainee Inspector Programme with Waidler.

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SAIA Vehicle Salvage Database

SAIA Vehicle Salvage Database

May 09, 2018

SAIA has established a new system (and database) to effectively monitor motor vehicles salvaged by insurers, with the intent to address certain aspects within motor vehicle crime.

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Is there a cycle in the SA engineering insurance?

Is there a cycle in the SA engineering insurance?

May 09, 2018

Traditionally, the engineering line of business has been profitable for the longest time in South Africa (SA) and that has attracted new entrants into the market in their effort to diversify their book of business and have a share of the profits. This has provided excess capacity into the market which fuels competition resulting in the fall of the premium rates. To date, the biggest challenges facing the market are the low premium rates, wider scope of coverage and the increase in the risk complexity compounded by the delay in start up cover requests. The increased competition comes at a time when the premium rates have been under pressure for a long time.

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The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa

May 09, 2018

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA) supports the industry as a non-profit organisation, representing its members through the test and approval of telematics and other vehicle security products such as Alarm/Immobilisers, Gearlocks, Wheel Locks, Microdotting and much more. The approval is done against published standards and is monitored for total service delivery against said standards. Through contacts and representation to the representative insurance associations, insurers, brokers and interested financial intermediaries, VESA supports the industry through the management, monitoring and reporting of the status of service delivery of these products and services.

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Financial Sector Receives First Report on Transformation

Financial Sector Receives First Report on Transformation

Mar 06, 2018

Following a lengthy year in which the financial sector was under scrutiny for its transformation progress and or lack of, by the joint sitting of the Standing Committee on Finance (SCOF) and the Portfolio Committee of Trade and Industry, 2017 ended on a more positive note with the release of the first report on transformation of the financial sector, giving a rather balanced view of the transformation agenda within the sector.

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National Treasury Establishes Panel on Conduct of Financial Institutions Bill

National Treasury Establishes Panel on Conduct of Financial Institutions Bill

Mar 06, 2018

The National Treasury (NT) has established a Non-life Industry Expert Panel to solicit advice in the development of the first draft of the Conduct of Financial Institutions (COFI) Bill. Six representatives from SAIA member companies and a SAIA representative form the Non-Life Industry Expert Panel. The NT held meetings with the panel on 17 January 2018 and 5 February 2018.

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Cape Town Water Crisis and the impact on the industry and policyholders

Cape Town Water Crisis and the impact on the industry and policyholders

Mar 06, 2018

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) is aware of the ongoing media reports of an imminent water crisis in Cape Town which has raised the level of awareness of a possible prolonged period of interrupted water supply. This is true for Cape Town but also possibly many other cities and towns within the country.

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A post- Section 45, Regulation 4, landscape

A post- Section 45, Regulation 4, landscape

Mar 06, 2018

The repealing of Section 45 and Regulation 4 of the Short-term Insurance Act 1998 by the new Insurance Act will see a change from a legislated requirement for credit intermediaries to hold a Section 45 guarantee to an unregulated market solution: commercial considerations between transacting parties, placing responsibility for the management of credit risk squarely at the foot of the insurer.

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SAIA Vacancy

SAIA Vacancy

Mar 06, 2018

Current vacancy at SAIA published in the February 2018 bulletin

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- February 2018 Bulletin

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- February 2018 Bulletin

Mar 06, 2018

Welcome to the first edition of the SAIA bi-monthly Bulletin for the year 2018. I sincerely hope that you had a good rest during the December/January holidays to see you back at work focusing on key issues we need to tackle to get our industry to the next level. So much has happened over the last few days in the political sphere including a change in our Head of State and government. As an industry, we welcome the new President and his recently sworn in cabinet. I would also like to welcome our new Minister of Finance, Hon. Nhlanhla Nene and his Deputy Minister Hon. Modli Gungubele. I hope that our well-nurtured relationship that led to numerous successful collaborative efforts with their high offices will continue bearing fruit for the benefit of all South Africans.

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Motor Body Repairers National Grading Standards Project

Motor Body Repairers National Grading Standards Project

Mar 05, 2018

The SAIA is elated to report that the National Grading Standards which were developed for Motor Body Repairers (MBRs) who want to do out-of-warranty work is well underway and has been widely received with enthusiasm and support from all associations representing MBRs and independent MBRs.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive- November Bulletin

From the Desk of the Chief Executive- November Bulletin

Dec 05, 2017

The end of the year is fast approaching and I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge our members for their participation in restoring the lives of many who were affected by the severe catastrophes and natural disasters that we were faced with this year.

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Draft Competition Code of Conduct for the automotive Sector

Draft Competition Code of Conduct for the automotive Sector

Dec 05, 2017

On 22 September 2017, the Competition Commission (the Commission) published a Draft Competition Code of Conduct for the Automotive Sector (the Code) in the Government Gazette for public comment.The Code seeks to address identified concerns in the aftermarket automotive industry and will bind various signatories such as Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), government bodies and industry associations.

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The Conditions of Contract and the Maintenance Period Cover under the CAR Policy – cause for concern?

The Conditions of Contract and the Maintenance Period Cover under the CAR Policy – cause for concern?

Dec 05, 2017

At the recent inaugural South African Association of Engineering Insurers (SAAEI) Annual Conference, one of the presentations focused on the various Conditions of Contract/Contract Agreements commonly used in the Construction/Building industry, the need to understand the insurance clauses contained in each of them, and how this would impact on the cover under the Construction Risks Policy. The presenter stressed the importance of the above, as the Policy will only provide cover to the extent required in terms of the Contract Agreement.

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The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa

Dec 05, 2017

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA) already enjoys the support of SAIA and many short-term insurers and are working to build upon that. Foundations already laid shows good progress and are getting good traction. VESA has been engaging widely with insurers and broker groups and are working on developing a more sustainable risk management process around vehicle security. Many insurers have recognised the need to re-evaluate security implementation on an ongoing basis and discussions are focused on requirements and re-evaluation of security levels.

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Media Statement: SAIA Encourages Safety During Storms

Media Statement: SAIA Encourages Safety During Storms

Oct 19, 2017

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) extends its sympathy to all who have been affected by the recent storms in parts of Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu Natal. Storms such as these which cause extensive damage to property and vehicles, highlight the importance of protecting one’s assets to reduce hardship following such devastation.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive

From the Desk of the Chief Executive

Sep 11, 2017

In his keynote address at the SAIA Cocktail function in July, Deputy Finance Minister Sfiso Buthelezi pledged government’s support to the short-term insurance industry.

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Concerns raised by the Ombudsman for Short-term Insurance (OSTI)

Concerns raised by the Ombudsman for Short-term Insurance (OSTI)

Sep 11, 2017

Insurers’ policy wording and claims philosophies are not updated and aligned to changes in technology and criminal behaviour. For example, the clause “forcible and violent entry” is strictly interpreted but today, criminals use car jamming devices hence the insured will be unable to demonstrate “forcible and violent entry.”

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SAIA List of Standardised Terminology available on SAIA website

SAIA List of Standardised Terminology available on SAIA website

Sep 11, 2017

The SAIA list of standardised terminology has been published on the SAIA website. The terms were identified by the SAIA Treating Customers Fairly workgroup on Standardised Terminology. The aim of the list is to ensure that policy wording is understood fully by the consumer and that all potentially confusing terms be defined on the list, for the ultimate benefit of the consumer.

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Continuity of Contractors’ All Risks Annually Renewable Covers

Continuity of Contractors’ All Risks Annually Renewable Covers

Sep 11, 2017

Just as important as it is to ensure that Contractors All Risks (“CAR”) cover is adequate and aligns with the insurance requirements of the underlying construction contract, it is important for the purposes of ongoing insured projects to ensure that such cover remains in place and is continuous in the event that a decision is made not to renew annually renewable CAR policies, or to cancel such policies, and to substitute one insurer for another.

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Save-a-Car Project

Save-a-Car Project

Sep 11, 2017

The Save-a-Car project is an initiative by the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) and insurance companies, together with other stakeholders including the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). The pilot project has been established as a mechanism to reduce the cost of repairing damaged motor vehicles deemed to be uneconomical to repair.

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Deputy Finance Minister pledges Government's support to the Insurance Industry

Deputy Finance Minister pledges Government's support to the Insurance Industry

Jul 26, 2017

Deputy finance minister Sfiso Buthelezi has pledged government's support to the South African insurance industry and called on insurers to continue working in the spirit of collaboration and good corporate governance. Speaking at the South African Insurance Association's annual cocktail event, which took place on 20 July 2017 in Sandton, the deputy minister stressed that while the industry was on the right path, there was still a lot of work that needed to be done.

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Upcoming Events 2017

Upcoming Events 2017

Jul 07, 2017

The SAIA will be hosting its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Cocktail function on Thursday, 20 July 2017.

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Inaugural SAIA Indaba 2017

Inaugural SAIA Indaba 2017

Jul 07, 2017

The SAIA successfully hosted its inaugural Indaba on 10 May 2017 at the FNB Conference Centre. The event, themed “Supporting the National Development Plan through the Short-term Insurance Industry,” was well attended with representatives from various stakeholders, including government, financial sector bodies, industry captains, SAIA members and the media.

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Big Data: The Key to Eradicating Insurance Fraud

Big Data: The Key to Eradicating Insurance Fraud

Jul 07, 2017

Quality information is the bedrock of the insurance industry – from the initial risk modelling that determines one’s premiums to the claims assessment process all the way to the policy renewal stage.

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The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA)

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA)

Jul 07, 2017

VESA has informed the short- term insurance industry that for all purposes affecting any vehicle safety and security products and systems and/or the installation thereof, the term “VESA Approved” shall mean compliance with all of the following three requirements:

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National Grading Standards Project update

National Grading Standards Project update

Jul 07, 2017

The SAIA and the Associations representing the Motor Body Repair (MBR) industry are proud to announce the introduction of the National Grading Standards for MBRs who want to be certified to do repair work on cars that are out-of-warranty.

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From the desk of the CEO- June 2017

From the desk of the CEO- June 2017

Jul 07, 2017

If the National Development Plan’s (NDP) promotion of economic growth and greater financial inclusivity is to be realised, then the ideology of economic transformation must be implemented.

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News Bulletin April 2017

News Bulletin April 2017

Jun 20, 2017

In this edition we have news on Transformation and governance risks, insurance risk, consumer education, stakeholder relations and communication as well as forum updates.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive - April 2017

From the Desk of the Chief Executive - April 2017

Apr 12, 2017

There is little doubt that the recent cabinet reshuffle and credit rating downgrade announcement has brought a lot of concern for many South Africans, the far-reaching effects of which will be felt by the economy and society at large for some time. It is important that all leaders in government, business, organised labour and civil society, who have the interest of our country and all its citizens at heart, stand together to ensure that South Africa is on the right path to achieve a stable and sustainable political, social and economic environment for all South Africans.

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Consumer Education - April Update

Consumer Education - April Update

Apr 12, 2017

The FSC has been approved and submitted to the Minister of Finance and is awaiting final approval and gazetting by the Department of Trade and Industry (Dti).

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Council for Medical Schemes Publishes Demarcation Exemption Framework

Council for Medical Schemes Publishes Demarcation Exemption Framework

Apr 12, 2017

The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) issued Circular 19 of 2017 on 15 March 2017 in respect of the Demarcation Exemption Framework, including the Guideline: Framework for Exemption of Providers of Indemnity Products that conducts the Business of a Medical Scheme from provisions of the Medical Schemes Act (MSA) 131 of 1998.

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The importance of developing insurance products for the poor

The importance of developing insurance products for the poor

Apr 12, 2017

If I had to define insurance today, I would say: Insurance is a financial tool that helps consumers pick up where they left off, after a loss. Without insurance, every time you experienced a major loss, you'd have to start all over again. In fact, this is what the poorest of the poor around the world face every time their shacks burn down or they lose a breadwinner

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VESA/ABS - New Electronic Standards

VESA/ABS - New Electronic Standards

Apr 12, 2017

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA) and its test house, the Accreditation Bureau for South Africa (ABS), have recently launched new specifications for Electronic Alarm and Immobiliser vehicle security devices.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive

From the Desk of the Chief Executive

Feb 07, 2017

There seems to be a sense of optimism in the air as we step into the New Year; the rand is stronger against the US dollar compared to the same time last year and the delegation attending the recent Word Economic Forum in Davos have reported strong collaboration between business, labour and government. The recent good rains over a large part of our country have also added to the change in spirit.

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Business for Road Safety

Business for Road Safety

Feb 07, 2017

As part of the Department of Transport (DoT) Transport Month in October 2016, the SAIA issued a media release calling road users to be aware of distractions on the road. This was in support of the DoT initiatives which strive to reduce the number of, crashes accidents and road fatalities on our roads.

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Governance Risks Update

Governance Risks Update

Feb 07, 2017

The FSR Bill is in the final stages of Parliamentary consideration. As at 7 December 2016, the Bill was referred to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) for concurrence.

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SAIA Forums Cont.

SAIA Forums Cont.

Feb 07, 2017

In 2016 SAIA commenced with the implementation of our new participative business model. This model allows SAIA to continue to actively drive common industry challenges while playing a secretarial and guidance role for specialist topics that are of interest to only a few members, known as SAIA Forums.

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Forums Update

Forums Update

Feb 07, 2017

The South African Machinery Insurance Association (SAMIA) held its final monthly meeting for 2016 on 06 December. This brief summary provides an overview of the association’s plans, accomplishments and key actions aligned to its mission of promoting technical understanding, knowledge transfer and social interaction between its members.

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Consumer Education Update

Consumer Education Update

Feb 07, 2017

Following a short break of season three of the SAIA financial literacy comedy series, Next of Next Week, the series began airing on Friday, 6 January 2017 at 17:30 on etv.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive

From the Desk of the Chief Executive

Nov 16, 2016

As we entered the final quarter of 2016 and look back at the year gone by, there was one very significant event on the financial calendar that requires mention: the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS).

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Update on Agriculture Insurance

Update on Agriculture Insurance

Nov 16, 2016

The complexity of commercial farming is often not well understood, including by those involved as stakeholders in the wider agricultural industry.

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Governance Risks Update

Governance Risks Update

Nov 16, 2016

Due to the delay in the parliamentary process, the Financial Services Board (FSB) has confirmed that the original SAM “go live” date of 1 January 2017 is no longer attainable and that a more realistic SAM “go live” date is 1 July 2017.

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The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA)

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA)

Nov 16, 2016

With VESA being incorporated into short-term insurance policies, the insurer is protected by not having to pay out a vehicle theft claim, should the insured’s vehicle not have met with the criteria of being fitted with a “VESA Approved” vehicle security device.

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SAIA Media Release: Crime stats- safety tips

SAIA Media Release: Crime stats- safety tips

Sep 28, 2016

Take precautions to protect your family and your property: A sustained increase of almost 15% in car hijackings over the last two years and an increase in both residential and business robberies reflected in the recently released national crime statistics are a cause for concern. To address this and help promote preventative safety action on the part of consumers, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has responded with safety tips.

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Insurance Risks Update

Insurance Risks Update

Sep 02, 2016

The objective of the workshop was to identify projects that Business Associations (and their members) could assist the DoT in the implementation of road safety related projects.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive

From the Desk of the Chief Executive

Sep 02, 2016

As South Africa continues to grapple with economic growth challenges amid a tough economic environment, the discussion on economic transformation has once again been put under the spotlight. More than ever, there is a growing realisation by the government, business and labour that in order to achieve sustainable economic growth and improve the lives of all South Africans, all role players need to actively drive the economic transformation agenda.

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Governance Risks Update

Governance Risks Update

Sep 02, 2016

The Financial Services Board (FSB) advised the SAIA recently that the current legal amendments being drafted by the FSB would give effect to some of the proposals in the RDR Phase 1 Update.

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Transformation Update

Transformation Update

Sep 02, 2016

The SAIA Board has approved the Access Standards and submitted them to the Financial Sector Charter Council for approval.

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SAIA announces new board members

SAIA announces new board members

Jul 22, 2016

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) yesterday announced the appointment of three new members to the SAIA board for the 2016 / 2017 year.

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Governance and Transformation- June 2016

Governance and Transformation- June 2016

Jul 06, 2016

The SAIA Board has approved the Enterprise and Supplier Development Strategy. Enterprise and Supplier Development will focus on black broker development as well as the development of suppliers in the motor and construction space.

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Short- term insurance: An insurance roadmap to growth in a strained economy

Short- term insurance: An insurance roadmap to growth in a strained economy

Jul 06, 2016

With continued economic pressure and the extent and rate at which the macro and regulatory environment continues to change, doing business in the country is extremely challenging. The impact of these challenges is reducing consumers’ disposable income and consequently, they are cancelling their insurance policies during a time where it is most valuable.

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Update on the SAIA Forums

Update on the SAIA Forums

Jul 06, 2016

The SAIA Forums have had their first meetings and elected their respective chairpersons to represent them as per the Terms of Reference.

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Strategic Insurance Data Committee

Strategic Insurance Data Committee

Jul 06, 2016

The former Insurance Data System (IDS) Steering Committee has been revamped, including a name change and will now be known as the Strategic Insurance Data Committee (SIDC).

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Stakeholder Relations and Communication

Stakeholder Relations and Communication

Jul 06, 2016

The SAIA continues to build and strengthen relationships with new and existing stakeholders as part of its stakeholder relations strategy. Since the beginning of the year, the association has engaged (and continues to) with various stakeholders in the financial sector and the government

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Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

Jul 06, 2016

The SAIA Annual General Meeting and Cocktail Function will be held on 20 July 2016 at the Johannesburg Country Club in Auckland Park. The keynote speaker at the cocktail function will be the Deputy Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, Mr Kuben Naidoo.

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Insurance Risks Update- June 2016

Insurance Risks Update- June 2016

Jul 06, 2016

The initial research by PwC on a potential implementation model for Compulsory Third Party Motor Property Insurance (CTPMPI) in South Africa has been completed.

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Updated Comprehensive Parallel Run 2016

Updated Comprehensive Parallel Run 2016

May 06, 2016

The updated Comprehensive Parallel Run (CPR) exercise taking place in 2016 will allow a final opportunity for insurers and the FSB to establish and test resources, processes and systems ahead of full SAM implementation.

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Establishment of SAIA Forums

Establishment of SAIA Forums

May 06, 2016

In implementing the SAIA’s participative model, the SAIA has established Forums to address various relevant and sub-sector specific challenges.

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The FAIS Act, 2002

The FAIS Act, 2002

May 06, 2016

On 14 April 2016, The Registrar of the Financial Services Providers (“The Registrar”), published for public comment, the proposed amendments to the Notice on Qualifications, Experience and Criteria for approval as a Compliance Officer, 2010 as published by Board Notice 127 of 2010 in Government Gazette No 33537 of 9 September 2010.

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Consumer Education Update

Consumer Education Update

Mar 07, 2016

Work on season three of the popular Next of Next Week (NONW) edutainment comedy series is currently underway. The new season will be a six part, 24 minute sitcom to be aired on national television.

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Motor Body Repair (MBR) Challenges

Motor Body Repair (MBR) Challenges

Mar 07, 2016

It was agreed to form a Non-Motor Transformation and Sustainability Forum (NMTSF) that will be inclusive and should have a national footprint of all relevant stakeholders.

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Retail Distribution Review (“RDR”)

Retail Distribution Review (“RDR”)

Mar 07, 2016

Members have agreed on the FSB’s proposed two-tier model for adviser categorisation but have proposed that the complexities of short-term insurance, such as distribution models, be taken into account......

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STRIDE Announces Change

STRIDE Announces Change

Mar 07, 2016

The Short Term Reinsurance Information Data Exchange (STRIDE) successfully sold the short-term switch to the industry-owned financial services exchange company, ASTUTE.

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From the Desk of the Chief Executive

From the Desk of the Chief Executive

Mar 07, 2016

As part of its value proposition, the SAIA seeks to become more involved in the broader discussion in the country to find sustainable solutions where we can contribute as an industry to grow South Africa’s economy.

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Delegate Registration 2016

Delegate Registration 2016

Jan 11, 2016

IISA , FIA and SAIA present the the insurance conference 2016 - Business Unusual: at Sun City 24-27 July 2016. Delegates please register!

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SAIA Board Appoints Chief Executive

SAIA Board Appoints Chief Executive

Dec 17, 2015

The Board of the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Viviene Pearson as the SAIA Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2016. The decision was taken at the Board’s meeting on 4 December 2015.

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Consumers urged to protect against severe weather

Consumers urged to protect against severe weather

Nov 24, 2015

The recent severe hailstorms in Gauteng, which have damaged both buildings and vehicles, highlights the importance of having the correct insurance cover in place to protect consumers and businesses against costly damages.

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SAIA Bulletin September 2015

SAIA Bulletin September 2015

Oct 02, 2015

In this issue: Motor Transformation and Sustainability Forum, SAIA Donation to BACSA, IUMI 2018 Conference, FAIS Circular 4 of 2015, Safety at Construction Sites

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Carjacking on the rise in SA

Carjacking on the rise in SA

Sep 30, 2015

Crime statistics published yesterday reveal that carjacking has spiked over the 2014/15 year, increasing by 14.2% in comparison to the previous year.

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New SAIA Board Members

New SAIA Board Members

Aug 19, 2015

The SAIA is pleased to announce the election of four new members to the SAIA Board following the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 23 July 2015.

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SAIA Annual Review Released

SAIA Annual Review Released

Aug 06, 2015

We are pleased to present the SAIA 2015 Annual Review. The Annual Review reflects on the work done in the last year, including our challenges and achievements.

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SAIA Consumer Education

SAIA Consumer Education

Aug 05, 2015

Season two of the popular Next of Next Week edutainment comedy series, which is one of SAIA’s Consumer Education Initiative projects, is now airing on eTV.

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SAIA Bulletin July 2015

SAIA Bulletin July 2015

Aug 05, 2015

SAIA Monthly industry bulletin. The Financial Services Board (“FSB”) has invited key stakeholders to participate in working groups to do further work on developing final legislative and regulatory changes following its consideration of the Retail Distribution Review (“RDR”) comments.

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SAIA Media Release- SAIA welcomes FSB’s Retail Distribution Review

SAIA Media Release- SAIA welcomes FSB’s Retail Distribution Review

Nov 14, 2014

The SAIA confirmed today that it welcomed the release of the Financial Services Board’s (FSB) Retail Distribution Review (RDR). The paper proposes 55 policy decisions that will be considered by a SAIA RDR Task Team. The SAIA’s Adv Suzette Olivier confirmed that this paper is in line with the new outcomes-based approach to regulation of the FSB created on an activity, risk-based and proportionate model of regulation. The deadline for comments on the document is 2 March 2015.

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School Holidays: Safety Tips from SAIA

School Holidays: Safety Tips from SAIA

Jun 29, 2014

With the school holidays approaching consumers are urged to be on high alert about the following types of crimes that occur and to which unsuspecting holiday makers may become victim:

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SAIA Elects a New Board

SAIA Elects a New Board

Jun 26, 2014

The South African Insurance Association’s (SAIA) members held the 2014 Annual General Meeting of the association on 25 June. At this meeting members committed to a revised Code of Conduct.

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SA Insurers Hold Urgent Forum on Climate Change

SA Insurers Hold Urgent Forum on Climate Change

May 30, 2014

South Africa’s major insurance companies together with their industry bodies, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) and The Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA), reinsurance experts, weather scientists and an international agricultural insurance specialist held an urgent forum to address insurance risk and exposure, due to recent extreme weather events that have caused massive damage and that had led to insurance claims of more than R1 billion in the past year.

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Holiday Makers urged to be streetwise on crime- SAIA

Holiday Makers urged to be streetwise on crime- SAIA

Apr 17, 2014

The South African Short-Term Insurance Association (SAIA) has called on holiday makers to be on the look out over the Easter holidays when people tend to let their guard down. More and more holiday makers are becoming victims of crime at their holiday destinations due to the fact that criminals prey on more relaxed and often unaware tourists.

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The SAIA Cautions Motorists

The SAIA Cautions Motorists

Apr 16, 2014

The South African Short-Term Insurance Association (SAIA) has yet again called on motorists to be careful when driving during the coming Easter Weekend. This warning follows a call for caution by the SAIA during February when heavy rains caused massive damage to roads and led to an increase in short-term insurance claims, mostly due to vehicle accidents and damage to vehicles.

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Short- term Insurance Industry cautions motorists

Short- term Insurance Industry cautions motorists

Mar 07, 2014

The representative body of the short-term insurance industry, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), has urged motorists to be cautious while travelling during the torrential rain which has affected the vast part of Gauteng and surrounding provinces. - SAIA urged motorists to take extra care on damaged roads, and in places where there is flooding and rain in order to avoid the increased risks of accidents.

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Hailstorms, car insurance and SMS warnings

Hailstorms, car insurance and SMS warnings

Jan 12, 2014

Are you still covered if you ignore an insurer’s notification? You may have been receiving these types of SMSes of late, following severe hailstorms in Gauteng in the past, that damaged thousands of vehicles and caused claims running into millions of rands.

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The SAIA and its members pay tribute to a legendary world leader

The SAIA and its members pay tribute to a legendary world leader

Dec 06, 2013

“During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.” Nelson Mandela.

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Inmag 2013

Inmag 2013

Oct 21, 2013

NMAG introduces school and university students to the diversity of the insurance and finance industries in a way that speaks directly to their needs. It’s the perfect opportunity for stakeholders to reach the youth of today, expand product awareness and attract a creative, innovative and, above all, enthusiastic workforce.

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Insurers to automatically reassess the value of motor vehicles

Insurers to automatically reassess the value of motor vehicles

Aug 13, 2013

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) recently confirmed that all its members will be required to automatically reassess the value of motor vehicles regularly in future, without any prompting from policyholders. The wording of this requirement has been included in the SAIA Code of Conduct after being approved by the SAIA Board in July 2013.

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Release of the Financial Sector Code

Release of the Financial Sector Code

Jul 16, 2013

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) today welcomed the release of the Financial Sector Code for Black Economic Empowerment, which was launched in Johannesburg this morning by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies, and Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) gazetted the FSC in December last year under section 9(1) of the Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment Act.

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Media statement on OSTI releasing of industry statistics

Media statement on OSTI releasing of industry statistics

Jun 11, 2013

Media statement on OSTI releasing of industry statistics. The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) fully supports the publication of statistical information relating to the adjudication of short-term insurance complaints by the Ombudsman for Short-term Insurance (OSTI). This enhanced transparency is a positive step in the fair treatment of customers, said the SAIA’s General Manager: Technical, Suzette Strydom, after the OSTI released statistics on the number of complaints to his office as a percentage of total claims and the overturn rates of rejected claims. It is the first time that such statistics have been released to the public and it is done with the full support of the short-term insurance industry.

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Food Security: Sustainability of Multi-Peril Crop Insurance, A Public Private Partnership.

Food Security: Sustainability of Multi-Peril Crop Insurance, A Public Private Partnership.

Mar 18, 2013

Johannesburg - An industry initiative to look into a possible Private Public Partnership (PPP) between the South African government and the insurance industry resulted in a workshop being held on the 22nd of February, 2013, at the Birchwood Hotel Conference Centre, that has widely been hailed as successful by the delegates and stakeholders who attended the informative and educative session.

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FPASA’s Insurer Fire Impact Reduction Strategy

FPASA’s Insurer Fire Impact Reduction Strategy

Jan 31, 2013

The FPASA has, since its inception, conducted services of benefit to the short term insurance industry. These services have been revised and improved over the last few years to improve the value offered to the industry. All now form part of our InFIReS project.

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SAIA 2012/13 Financial Literacy Initiative kicks-off

SAIA 2012/13 Financial Literacy Initiative kicks-off

Jan 29, 2013

Hot on the heels of its Consumer Financial Literacy initiative 2011/12, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) is proud to announce that its 2012/13 programme has commenced. Acclaimed as a world first, the South African Insurance Association’s initiative run by service provider Bright Media on its behalf has been running since 2005 throughout all South African provinces.

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Financial Literacy Initiative kicks-off

Financial Literacy Initiative kicks-off

Nov 23, 2012

Hot on the heels of its Consumer Financial Literacy initiative 2011/12, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) is proud to announce that its 2012/13 programme has commenced.

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SAIA increases workforce

SAIA increases workforce

Nov 06, 2012

SAIA increases workforce in light of SA’s regulatory framework. As a result of a shake-up of the Financial Services Sector’s legal framework and a slew of regulatory reforms, the South African Insurance Association is glad to announce that it has made two appointments to bolster its technical team in order to effectively deal with compliance issues and demands paired with the reforms.

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Human Capital Development Committee established

Human Capital Development Committee established

Oct 22, 2012

The financial service industry establishes a human capital development steering committee to boost professionalism. In order to oversee and drive the professional standards of the South African short-term insurance industry, a number of industry associations have joined forces to form the Short Term Insurance Human Capital Development Steering Committee.

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SAIA becomes member of the GFIA

SAIA becomes member of the GFIA

Oct 11, 2012

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has announced that it is proud to be a member of the newly established Global Federation of Insurance Associations (GFIA). Thirty-one insurance associations representing 87 per cent of the worldwide insurance business formally established the Global Federation of Insurance Associations (GFIA) on the 9th of October, 2012.

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3 new SAIA directors elected; Donates R2m to fight crime

3 new SAIA directors elected; Donates R2m to fight crime

Jul 24, 2012

The SAIA elects three new directors; Donates R2m to fight against crime. The South African Insurance Association (SAIA), a body representing 58 member companies within the short-term insurance industry on Tuesday, 24 July 2012 announced that it had successfully held its thirteenth Annual General Meeting (AGM) at its new offices in Roodepoort.

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ClimateWise Thought Leadership

ClimateWise Thought Leadership

Jun 25, 2012

In this Thought Leadership article, Ian Kirk, Chief Executive of Santam Group explores the implications of a key theme at the Rio+20 conference for the insurance sector. Ian demonstrates how the insurance sector is uniquely placed to act as global connector for shared values and what the value of ecosystem resilience plays in mitigating disaster risk, including climate change risk.

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SAIA submits comments on Demarcation Regulations

SAIA submits comments on Demarcation Regulations

May 02, 2012

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has announced that it has completed the exercise of its member comments collation and has made its submissions to the National Treasury with regards the Proposed Demarcation Regulations between Health Insurance Policies and Medical Schemes.

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Business process reviews are key to insurers

Business process reviews are key to insurers

Mar 16, 2012

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) says reviewing business processes is an important practice to insurers to institutionalise best practice across all client touch points. Debbie Donaldson, SAIA General Manager: Strategy and Planning says with increased access to technology and information the claims and underwriting processes have become more convenient and client friendly, however, the cost of insurance remains affected by organised crime activities.

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Share Call Number Initiative for consumers

Share Call Number Initiative for consumers

Feb 20, 2011

In support of the drive towards the consumers in South Africa, the Credit Ombud, the Ombudsman for Banking Services, the Long term Insurance Ombud, the Short term Insurance Ombud, the Financial Services Board (FSB), the FAIS Ombud and the National Credit Regulator (NCR) collaborated to develop a share call number for consumers, which went live on 1st January 2011. Consumers can call 0860 OMBUDS (0860 662 837) and they will be connected directly to any of the offices listed above or guided to whom they should contact if they are not sure which Ombud or regulatory office handles the relevant complaint in the financial industry.

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New drivers licence legislation delayed

New drivers licence legislation delayed

Feb 03, 2011

“The South African Insurance Association is concerned that the amendment concerning the driving licence legislation which was supposed to become effective on 1 February 2011, which would make it illegal to drive a light motor vehicle with a licence of a heavy vehicle, was delayed, according to an announcement of the Department of Transport, issued on 1 February 2011, “says Dawie Buys, SAIA Motor Manager.

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SAIA Chairmans Report 2010

SAIA Chairmans Report 2010

Dec 31, 2010

The 2009/2010 year under review has come to an end with signs of the global credit crunch easing and the South African economy appearing to be lifting slowly out of the recession that we have experienced ever since the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September 2008. It would be reassuring to think that the global crisis is over. However, the worries about sovereign debt in mainly Euro-zone countries remain a black cloud on the global economic horizon.

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SAIA Annual General Meeting and Cocktail Function

SAIA Annual General Meeting and Cocktail Function

Jul 29, 2010

Foundations in place to ensure a sustainable future for short-term insurers A new board of directors for short-term insurers was elected at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) that was held at the Johannesburg Country Club in Auckland Park last night. The evening ended with the SAIA Annual Cocktail Function, themed, “Foundations for the future”. This networking event is seen by many as the highlight of the short-term insurance calendar.

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SAIA appoints new Manager

SAIA appoints new Manager

Jun 01, 2010

SAIA appoints new Manager: Image and Reputation Yvette Francis was appointed as the new South African Insurance Association (SAIA) Manager: Image and Reputation on 1 June 2010.

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Termination of binder agreements and related unilateral cancellation of short-term insurance policies

Termination of binder agreements and related unilateral cancellation of short-term insurance policies

Apr 07, 2010

SAIA supports the directive and information letter paraphrased below that was distributed on 31 March 2010 by the Financial Services Board (FSB) to enhance the reporting requirements for all short-term insurers and collate information from them in the event that they terminate binder agreements. This includes those cases where the binder termination results in a unilateral cancellation of a book of policies in terms of Rule 7.3 of the Short-term Insurance Policyholder Protection Rules (PPR) made under section 55 of the Short-term Insurance Act, 1998 (Act No. 53 of 1998) (STI Act).

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SAIA appoints new manager to address the sustainability of motor insurance

SAIA appoints new manager to address the sustainability of motor insurance

Apr 07, 2010

SAIA appoints new manager to address the sustainability of motor insurance Viviene Pearson was appointed as the new South African Insurance Association (SAIA) Manager: Motor, from 1 April 2010. This position was created as a result of a SAIA Board decision to address the sustainability of motor insurance through an approved SAIA strategy.

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Fit and Proper competency requirements and failure to comply

Fit and Proper competency requirements and failure to comply

Apr 07, 2010

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) supports the information published in recent Financial Services Board (FSB) circulars regarding the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act (FAIS) Fit and Proper competency requirements and the debarment when sole proprietors (FSPs), key individuals and representatives fail to comply. SAIA urges all financial services providers to comply with the necessary requirements and expectations as paraphrased below to protect policy holders.

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Chief Executive’s report and short-term market

Chief Executive’s report and short-term market

Mar 09, 2010

At time of writing this report, we have just less than 60 days to go to the kick-off of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, being held for the first time on the African continent. While, hopefully, there will be no major insurance issues arising from the event, all business will be affected in one way or another. It will be difficult to move around the cities, and keeping staff focused on the job at hand will be challenging. Nevertheless, we at the SAIA will be joining in the excitement of the event, which in all likelihood will happen in our country only once in our lifetime. It is likely that Government will virtually down during this period, so there won’t be much new emanating from that source for us to consider. However, given our workload and the number of new tasks we have assumed, there will be no time to slack off, so SAIA will remain hard at work.

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SAIA FSC Consumer Education Initiative Report

SAIA FSC Consumer Education Initiative Report

Nov 25, 2009

Millions spent on financial literacy and generic insurance education The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has spent over R40 million on consumer education to date, and today, reported back on the short-term insurance industry’s recently concluded 2008/9 consumer education initiative. The initiative was aimed at Living Standard Measure (LSM) 1 – 5, black people as per the requirements of the Financial Sector Charter.

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South African Insurance Crime Bureau (SAICB)

South African Insurance Crime Bureau (SAICB)

Oct 12, 2009

The South African Insurance Crime Bureau (SAICB) was launched in Johannesburg on 30 October 2008. This was the culmination of a long process whereby the industry sought a way to address insurance fraud formally, collaboratively and comprehensively.

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Crime-Combating Initiatives

Crime-Combating Initiatives

Oct 12, 2009

SAIA and its members have been very active in the crime-combating arena. Not only does crime affect all individuals and businesses in South Africa, it also directly impacts on our industry. Although the need for a holistic, targeted and collaborative approach with regards to insurance fraud and crime led to the establishment of the South African Insurance Crime Bureau (SAICB), SAIA still needs to represent the industry in general crime combating areas.

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Road Safety: An Area of Great Concern

Road Safety: An Area of Great Concern

Oct 12, 2009

Road safety initiatives are being implemented by the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) in an attempt to curb the high accident rate in South Africa and to thereby ensure that motor insurance remains affordable. “Motor insurance, our largest class of business is under considerable pressure with around 70% of insurance claims being road accident related and alcohol consumption is a factor in many of these instances,” says SAIA spokesperson.

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The link between crime and road safety

The link between crime and road safety

Oct 12, 2009

Most people would be very concerned about the fact that around 50 people are murdered in South Africa daily, however, not as many seem to be as worried about the fact that around 36 people lose their lives in road accidents daily. In fact, an important link between crime and road safety exists in more ways than one.

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This could happen to you…

This could happen to you…

Oct 12, 2009

This could happen to you… The procedures followed when you are stopped for an alcohol breathalyzer test while driving. The recently opened Alcohol Testing blood alcohol testing centre in Johannesburg, created by the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), in partnership with Business Against Crime South Africa and the Johannesburg Metro Police Department is certainly not the place where anybody would like to find themselves on a Saturday evening, or any other day or night.

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Insurance consequences in the case of drunk driving

Insurance consequences in the case of drunk driving

Oct 12, 2009

When one has the unfortunate experience to land up in a motor vehicle accident, many bad consequences could be suffered. The least of all may be the worry about who is going to pay for the damage to the vehicles involved. That is what insurance is for though, isn’t it?

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Insurance Data System (IDS)

Insurance Data System (IDS)

Oct 09, 2009

The SAIA and its member companies, in partnership with TransUnion, have successfully established an information-sharing platform for the benefit of the short-term insurance industry at large, in its fight against fraud and to manage risk. With increasing economic pressures on the South African consumer, it becomes more and more important for insurers and brokers to accurately identify the risks associated with policyholders and the assets they insure, making information-sharing platforms such as IDS invaluable in the claims and underwriting process.

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Road safety initiatives

Road safety initiatives

Oct 09, 2009

Since SAIA’s involvement with Business Against Crime South Africa began, motor theft has reduced by around 50% (measured per thousand vehicles) and, although still important is no longer the primary cause of concern for motor insurers. Instead, road safety has become an area of great concern as the motor account is under considerable pressure with around 70% of motor insurance claims being road accident related (and alcohol consumption is a factor in many of these instances) while still supporting crime initiatives to make sure that the successes that have been achieved are sustained.

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Stakeholder relationship strategy

Stakeholder relationship strategy

Oct 09, 2009

SAIA cannot have any success if we do not have a strong relationship with our stakeholders. A SAIA stakeholder relationship strategy is therefore always in place and is largely successful.

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Crime

Crime

Sep 09, 2009

SAIA and its members have been very active in the crime-combating arena. Not only does crime affect all individuals and businesses in South Africa, it also directly impacts on our industry. Although the need for a holistic, targeted and collaborative approach with regards to insurance fraud and crime led to the establishment of the South African Insurance Crime Bureau (SAICB), SAIA still needs to represent the industry in general crime combating areas.

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SAIA donates over R1.5 million to improve road safety and combat crime

SAIA donates over R1.5 million to improve road safety and combat crime

May 14, 2009

Joint media release: The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) and Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA). SAIA donates over R1.5 million to improve road safety and combat crime. “Motor vehicle crashes have replaced theft as the primary point of concern for insurers. In addition, the unacceptable levels of crime in South Africa remain of great concern to the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), its members and the country at large. This is why the SAIA Board approved an 8th annual contribution towards Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA),” said Ronnie Napier, Chairman of the SAIA Board, at a cheque handover media event in Illovo on 14 May 2009.

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Consumer Protection Act 2008

Consumer Protection Act 2008

Mar 16, 2009

Consumer Protection Act 2008 - Opinion provided by Jackie Hurter on the application of the CPA within the short-term insurance industry. (Please note that this opinion does not necessarily express the views of SAIA, however, it is provided to stimulate debate and should be applied to member company’s practices as deemed appropriate).

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500 Detectives trained through anti-crime partnership

500 Detectives trained through anti-crime partnership

Feb 26, 2009

Joint media release: The South African Insurance Association (SAIA), Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA) and the Gauteng SAPS. Today, the members of the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA) and the Gauteng SAPS celebrated the successful completion of the SAIA funded training of 500 detectives from the Gauteng SAPS.

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SAIA Member Participation

SAIA Member Participation

Dec 09, 2008

SAIA members will be invited to participate in this project by providing information on their own relevant products for this market before and after the broadcasts, putting up call centre facilities to accept enquiries about their products, and reporting on such calls to the SAIA in order to draw the link between the education project and the potential uptake of products. Please look out for the communication in this regard that will be coming your way shortly.

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Short-term insurance industry contributes to financial literacy education

Short-term insurance industry contributes to financial literacy education

Oct 07, 2008

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) today reported back on the short-term insurance industry’s consumer education initiative implemented in 2007/8 with 2007 financial year end funds. A total of R8 552 111.23 was pooled voluntarily by SAIA members in terms of their 0.2% commitment to consumer education in the financial services arena in terms of the Financial Sector Charter. This consumer education initiative was aimed at the lower income group or LSMs 1 – 5 and Black people as per the requirements of the Charter.

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Napier appointed as Chairman of the SAIA Board

Napier appointed as Chairman of the SAIA Board

Sep 17, 2008

The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) confirmed that Ronnie Napier has today accepted his appointment as the new Chairman of the SAIA Board after a special general meeting held at the SAIA offices in Milpark on Monday, 15 September 2008.

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Short-term insurers elect new board

Short-term insurers elect new board

Jun 13, 2008

The short-term insurers selected a new board of directors at the Annual General Meeting of its representative body, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), yesterday on 12 June 2008 in Johannesburg.

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Consumer credit insurance report welcomed

Consumer credit insurance report welcomed

Apr 22, 2008

The Life Offices’ Association (LOA) and the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) welcome the release of the Consumer Credit Insurance Enquiry Report by the independent panel of enquiry jointly appointed by the LOA and the SAIA in July last year to identify problem areas in the consumer credit insurance market.

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