Insurance

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Co. Ltd. posted an 18% year-on-year rise in net profit for the second quarter of FY2025–26, reaching Rs. 296 crore, supported by improved operating efficiencies and higher margins. While new business growth slowed marginally, the company sustained profitability through disciplined cost control and a favorable product mix. Its Value of New Business (VNB) rose 1% to Rs. 592 crore, and the VNB margin expanded to 24.4%.

The imposition of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on health insurance premiums has emerged as a pressing concern for both policyholders and industry stakeholders. With premiums already rising due to medical inflation and higher claim ratios, the additional 18% GST has further strained affordability for individuals and families. While the government views GST collections as a critical revenue stream, critics argue that taxing health protection discourages insurance penetration in a country where coverage remains relatively low.

Punjab National Bank (PNB) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to provide a tailored package of insurance and financial benefits to serving and retired personnel. The initiative is aimed at strengthening social security for India’s largest paramilitary force, ensuring financial protection for members and their families. The pact covers a wide range of services, including accident and health insurance, concessional loans, and dedicated banking assistance.

In a decisive move underscoring the growing regulatory emphasis on data protection, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has levied a penalty of Rs. 3.39 crore on Star Health and Allied Insurance Company. The fine follows the insurer’s failure to adhere to cybersecurity compliance norms, including delayed reporting of a data breach and lapses in safeguarding policyholders' sensitive personal information.

Cholamandalam MS General Insurance, a joint venture between the Murugappa Group and Japan's Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance, has reported a strong financial performance for the first quarter of FY26. The company’s net profit surged 29% year-on-year to Rs. 126 crore, supported by improved underwriting practices, disciplined cost controls, and healthy investment income. Gross written premiums also rose substantially, reflecting continued momentum in motor and health insurance segments.

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has reported a substantial 34% increase in net profit for the first quarter, reaching Rs. 302 crore, driven by resilient premium inflows and disciplined expense control. The insurer also posted a higher value of new business margin, underscoring its success in strengthening profitability through a balanced product mix.

Shares of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) are capturing market attention following signals from official circles that the government may soon greenlight an Offer for Sale (OFS) of its stake. This prospective move underscores the Centre’s broader disinvestment strategy aimed at strengthening fiscal resources while deepening capital market participation. Investors are closely monitoring the development, anticipating improved liquidity in LIC’s counter and a potential uptick in valuation.

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has introduced two innovative insurance products, Nav Jeevan Shree and Nav Jeevan Shree Single Premium, aimed at seamlessly integrating life cover with systematic savings. These offerings are tailored to meet evolving financial requirements across different life stages by enabling corpus accumulation through either regular premiums or lump sum investments. Amid a backdrop of fluctuating interest rates and economic volatility, LIC guarantees additions throughout the policy tenure, providing policyholders with a stable and secure investment vehicle.

In a significant consolidation move in India's health insurance sector, Medi Assist Insurance TPA Pvt Ltd has finalized the acquisition of a 100% stake in Paramount Health Services & Insurance TPA. While both firms will maintain independent operations for the time being, the integration paves the way for strategic alignment and operational synergies. The acquisition brings Rs 4,000 crore in additional health premiums under administration for Medi Assist and significantly broadens its provider network.