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After Bancassurance, now comes Integrated Insurance

Guardian Life's trailblazing journey towards total protection


Sheikh Rakibul Karim, FCA | March 01, 2024 00:00:00


Sheikh Rakibul Karim, FCA

Guardian Life Insurance Limited (GLIL) has emerged as a beacon of innovation and stewardship in the insurance landscape. With a firm commitment to its "Insurance for All" mission, Guardian Life has transformed the lives of half the total insured population of the country through its forward-thinking, innovative approach. With over twelve million lives covered, the company's contribution is undeniable, reflecting its dedication to both customers and the sector at large. Guardian Life is on a mission to not just make history but to rewrite it with bold strokes of innovation and creativity. GLIL is not simply following trends; rather, it is pioneering them.

In 2017, Guardian Life Insurance Limited (GLIL) began a transformative journey by establishing its Bancassurance department and collaborating closely with the Insurance Development and Regulatory Authority (IDRA) to adapt the Bancassurance concept for Bangladesh. GLIL's proactive steps resulted in receiving the first piloting approval for Bancassurance from IDRA in July 2019, generating significant interest from major banks eager to join GLIL in piloting Bancassurance projects. Bangladesh Bank subsequently formed a dedicated technical committee, including GLIL representatives, to further develop and advance Bancassurance in the country. Today, GLIL stands at the forefront of introduction of Bancassurance in Bangladesh, signifying a significant shift in the nation's financial landscape.

After Bancassurance, Guardian Life now looks ahead to revolutionizing the insurance landscape once more. With a forward-thinking approach, the company is preparing to redefine protection through Integrated Insurance, aiming for a comprehensive solution that goes beyond traditional offerings.

In a rapidly evolving world where the lines between life and general insurance are becoming increasingly unclear, Guardian Life is aiming for a more comprehensive approach to insurance. GLIL envisions integrating life and general insurance to develop inclusive solutions that cater to a diverse range of needs. Major non-life insurance products can be proposed as a rider to life insurance. The life and non-life products can be bundled, such as Companies can offer bundled insurance packages to employees, combining group life insurance with car insurance for comprehensive coverage; or, in rural areas, micro insurance initiatives can integrate life products with non-life offerings like livestock, crop, fish, and cattle insurance to provide holistic protection to farmers and rural communities; or, travel insurance can be added as a complementary component to life insurance policies, providing additional coverage for policyholders during their travel, etc.

Successfully implementing integrated life and general insurance, whether through hybrid or comprehensive plans, necessitates careful consideration of regulatory, market, industry, distribution, education, data, and collaboration factors to meet consumer needs and market demands. Guardian Life can utilise tailored solutions powered by data analytics and AI to provide fair pricing and precise coverage, thereby enhancing customer confidence. Collaboration among insurers, regulators, industry associations, consumer advocates, and technology providers is crucial for driving the introduction of integrated insurance products. By working together, with stakeholders GLIL can address regulatory frameworks, promote market awareness, and foster industry innovation to facilitate adoption of intregrated insurance solutions.

This vision is very much achievable, as Guardian Life stands out as a leader in both traditional and unconventional insurance, with the world's largest micro-insurance project in partnership with BRAC and excellence in the corporate insurance sector. GLIL also has the most extensive retail network. By introducing the country's first digital insurance platforms, the EasyLife App, and the MyGuardian App, GLIL has provided innovative and embedded insurance solutions directly to customers' fingertips.

GLIL's journey is defined by its tireless pursuit of innovative solutions that transform the insurance landscape, enhancing accessibility and reassurance for everyone. Innovations like the insurance industry's one-and-only 24/7 customer support, an AI-powered chatbot, and an automated claim processing system prioritize customer needs, introducing InsurTech to the sector. Recognizing that insurance is about more than just numbers, GLIL offers services like Dr. Guardian consultations, discounts at over 350 hospitals, and a digital loyalty card, pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Through collaboration and innovation, Guardian Life is sculpting a future where insurance isn't merely a safety net, but a catalyst for flourishing in all aspects of life. Envisioning a world where insurance transcends mere policies; it becomes a pledge fulfilled, a destiny safeguarded. Guardian Life is tirelessly striving to manifest this vision into reality. The unparalleled 98% claim payout ratio isn't just a statistic; it's a testament to our unwavering dedication. Each settled claim, every safeguarded dream, echoes our profound values. We don't just offer insurance; we forge bonds of trust that endure.

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