FS Brew- Insurtech and insurance in the Middle East

Renjit Philip and Vidya Veerapandian
FS Brew- Insurtech and insurance in the Middle East

Welcome to FS Brew! FS Brew is the region’s first podcast focussing on insurance and insurtech in the UAE and the broader Middle East. We are based in the startup magnet, a city of dreamers and visionaries- Dubai! In every episode, the hosts, Vidya Veerapandian and Renjit Philip, have in-depth conversations with industry experts on insurtech, insurance, venture capital, digital transformation, actuarial science, and many other topics. Renjit Philip: www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠ www.onemorethinginai.com Vidya Veerapandian: www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠

  1. FEB 4

    From Unicorn Dreams to Revenue Reality: Minh Q. Tran on Venture Capital in Insurtech

    Insurtech Innovation & Collaboration: Insights from VC Expert Minh Q. Tran Welcome to FSBrew, the Middle East's premiere podcast on insurance and insurtech. In this episode, hosts Vidya and Ranjit Phillip speak with Minh Q. Tran, a seasoned venture capitalist with over 25 years of experience in tech and finance, particularly focusing on Insurtech, FinTech, and PropTech. Minh leads Mandalore Partners which specializes in corporate venture capital as a service, helping insurance companies strategically invest in innovative startups. The discussion delves into multiple topics around startup funding and collaboration within the insurance industry, emphasizing the importance of revenue generation, market fit, product competitiveness, business model, and team expertise. Insights on the dichotomy between disruptive and collaborative startups, adoption of AI, and the evolving landscape of Insurtech form key parts of the conversation. Minh shares his views on the emerging trends in Insurtech, the hurdles imposed by regulatory challenges, and specific collaboration models that have found success. He also highlights reinsurance opportunities in the Middle East and explains how startups can better navigate local regulations for expansion. In the rapid-fire round, Minh talks about the impact of blockchain technology, his investment strategies, and valuable advice for aspiring Insurtech entrepreneurs. Don't miss out on hearing about Minh's proudest investments and the critical traits he looks for in a founding team. Tune in for a comprehensive and enlightening discussion packed with actionable insights ideal for Insurtech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals! 00:00 The Importance of Revenue in Startups 00:43 Introduction to Fsdru Podcast 01:06 Guest Introduction: 02:50 Understanding Corporate Venture Capital as a Service 06:49 Challenges and Benefits of Internal CVCs 10:58 The Role of AI in Insurance 13:31 Evaluating Insurtech Startups 16:49 Investment Strategies and Regional Focus 20:36 The Importance of Collaboration in Insurtech 21:29 Navigating Regulatory Challenges in Europe 23:37 Scaling Strategies for Insurtech Startups 26:37 Insights on Investment and Innovation 30:13 Rapid Fire: Quick Insights and Advice #vc #insurance #insurtech #europe #corporate

    38 min
  2. JAN 31

    40 Years in Insurance: Ayman El Hout's Lessons and Predictions

    Join us on FS Brew, the UAE's first podcast dedicated to insurance and Insurtech in the Middle East, as co-hosts Vidya Veerapandian and Renjit Philip engage in a deep conversation with Ayman El Hout, CEO of Marsh McLennan in the Middle East. With over 40 years of industry experience, Ayman provides insights into his career journey, the evolution of Marsh McLennan in the region, and the future landscape of the insurance sector. Key topics include the importance of AI, the challenges of medical inflation, climate risk, and the potential of tokenization as a future disruptor. Also, get a sneak peek into Ayman's leadership style, future plans for 2025, and some rapid-fire fun. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable lessons and forward-thinking perspectives on the insurance industry. 00:00 Welcome to FSBrew: Introduction and Hosts 00:28 Guest Introduction: Ayman Elhout, CEO of Marsh McLaren 00:49 Ayman's Journey into Insurance 02:32 Marsh McLennan's Achievements and Client Focus 04:20 Insurance Awareness and Industry Challenges 06:01 Regulatory Landscape in the Middle East 08:22 Attracting Talent and the Role of AI in Insurance 12:52 Climate Change and Renewable Energy Initiatives 16:51 Dubai Reins and Risk Mitigation 19:43 Global Risks and Misinformation 21:53 Navigating Career Challenges and Leadership Lessons 22:35 The Importance of Passion and Continuous Learning 23:58 Rising Costs in Medical Insurance and Solutions 27:31 Innovation and Insurtech in the Insurance Industry 30:09 The Future of Tokenization in Insurance 32:02 Leadership Reflections and Future Plans 33:17 Rapid Fire: Insights and Personal Preferences Renjit Philip: Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.onemorethinginai.com⁠⁠⁠ Socials: Twitter / X: @renjitphilip LinkedIn:  ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠⁠⁠ Vidya Veerapandian: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠

    40 min
  3. 12/13/2024

    The Evolution of KSA's Insurance Landscape: Get ready for growth

    In this episode of F S Brew, Vidya and Renjit interview Hasham Piperdy, GM of KSA and Director at Badri Consultancy, discussing the remarkable growth in the KSA insurance market. Hasham shares insights into the factors driving this growth, from an industry valuation of around 36-37 billion in 2020 to a staggering 64 billion last year. This includes the role of regulatory changes, successful campaigns to insure more drivers, and the potential of renewable energy projects. The conversation also covers the impact of advanced data collection methods, climate risks, and future market opportunities. Join us as we delve into the dynamics shaping the KSA insurance landscape. 00:00 Introduction to FSBrew and Hosts 00:32 Guest Introduction: Hasham Pippurdi 00:54 Role and Journey at Badri Consultancy 02:25 Growth and Profitability in KSA Insurance Market 07:02 Impact of Regulatory Changes and Data on Underwriting 11:19 Market Share and Investment Income 17:01 Climate Risk and Natural Catastrophes 19:33 Regulatory Innovations and Centralized Systems 24:27 Pricing Trends and Future Prospects 30:24 The Impact of IFRS 17 on Loss Visibility 32:20 Saudi Arabia's Non-Motor Insurance Market 36:53 The Rise of Insurtech in Saudi Arabia 41:54 Addressing Climate Risks in Saudi Insurance 48:51 Challenges for Smaller Insurers in Saudi Arabia 54:24 Rapid Fire: Insights and Reflections Renjit Philip: Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.onemorethinginai.com⁠⁠⁠ Socials: Twitter / X: @renjitphilip LinkedIn:  ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠⁠⁠ Vidya Veerapandian: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠

    58 min
  4. 12/10/2024

    From Tradition to Transformation: Insurance in the Digital Age

    Digital Transformation in Insurance: Insights from Dark Horse Digital Solutions In this episode of FSBrew, we sit down with the team from Dark Horse Digital Solutions, including Naren, Kishore, and Utkarsh, to delve into their journey and perspectives on digital transformation. They discuss the founding of Dark Horse, the evolving role of IT in business, and the significance of change management. The conversation spans across different sectors with a particular focus on the nuances of digital transformation in the insurance industry. They also shed light on challenges such as legacy systems, customer data integration, and compliance. Finally, the team provides insights into the future trends and the importance of designing for change. #DigitalTransformation #InsuranceIndustry #DarkHorseDigitalSolutions #FSBrew #Technology #BusinessProcessManagement #AI #CustomerExperience00:00 Introduction to FSBrew and Dark Horse Digital Solutions 00:18 The Origin and Evolution of Dark Horse Digital Solutions 01:03 Understanding IT and Change Management 01:55 The Role of Applications in Business 06:24 Challenges in Digital Transformation for Insurance 15:57 Comparing Digital Trends Across Geographies 20:24 Approaches to Large-Scale Digital Transformation 25:26 Demystifying User-Level Challenges 25:46 The Importance of Culture in Large-Scale Projects 26:05 Frameworks and Structures in Digital Implementation 27:13 Open Banking and Open Insurance in the UAE 28:14 The Role of Technology and Openness 32:35 Security and Compliance in Open Architectures 33:26 Designing for Change in Digital Transformation 36:26 Future of Digital Transformation in Insurance 41:43 Customer-Centric Approaches and Technology 44:30 Final Thoughts on Transformation and Partnership Renjit Philip: Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.onemorethinginai.com⁠⁠⁠ Socials: Twitter / X: @renjitphilip LinkedIn:  ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠⁠⁠ Vidya Veerapandian: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠

    46 min
  5. 12/06/2024

    FS Brew Insurance and Insurtech News with Analysis Nov 2024

    FS Brew: Exploring UAE's New Broker Regulations and Insurtech Innovations In this episode of FS Brew, hosts Vidya and Renjit discuss the latest in the UAE's insurance and Insurtech landscape. They delve into new broker regulations issued by the Central Bank of UAE, focusing on premium collections and outsourcing rules that aim to bring stability to the industry. The hosts also spotlight emerging Insurtechs such as LookInsure and Shory, highlighting their innovations and market strategies. Additionally, they review global Insurtech funding trends, the performance of reinsurance companies, and interesting technological applications in climate risk management. Tune in to get insights and analysis on these critical developments in the Middle East insurance sector. 00:00 Introduction to FS Brew Podcast 00:58 Hot Topic: New Broker Regulations in UAE 06:53 Employee Benefits and Market Insights 10:12 Spotlight on Regional Insurtechs 15:17 Global Insurtech Funding Trends 18:41 Reinsurance Industry Performance 21:39 Innovative AI Solutions in Insurance 23:21 Conclusion and Listener Engagement 🎙 Don't miss out on an engaging discussion packed with insights for leaders in digital insurance and insurtech. Renjit Philip: Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.onemorethinginai.com⁠⁠⁠ Socials: Twitter / X: @renjitphilip LinkedIn:  ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠⁠⁠ Vidya Veerapandian: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠ #Insurance #Insurtech #DigitalBusiness #EmbeddedInsurance #Leadership #FSBrew 🎧 Tune in for more!

    25 min
  6. 08/26/2024

    49: From Science Labs to Insurance Labs: Ken Maw's Journey

    Navigating the Insurance Industry with Ken Maw: Insights and LeadershipWelcome to FS Brew, where we dive into the world of insurance and Insurtech in the UAE and the broader Middle East. In this episode, hosts Renjit Philip and Vidya Veerapandian interview Ken Moore, Managing Director at Al Futtaim Willis. With over four decades of experience in the #insurance sector, Ken shares his unique journey from working in the food industry to becoming a key figure in insurance. He discusses the evolution of the industry, the role of trust in building client relationships, and the impact of technological advancements like generative AI on the future of insurance. Ken also touches on his leadership style, the importance of regulatory compliance, and his vision for the future of Al Futtaim Willis. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with #industry wisdom and forward-looking strategies. 00:00 Introduction to FSBrew00:49 Meet Ken Moore: Career Journey 03:49 Role of an International Insurance Broker 06:48 Leadership and Trust in Insurance 08:44 Blogging and Banking Insights 13:06 Strategic Goals and Insurtech 17:22 Generative AI and Future Risks 24:40 Regulatory Landscape and Compliance 32:35 Advice for Aspiring CEOs 36:43 Rapid Fire Questions Renjit Philip:Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.onemorethinginai.com⁠⁠⁠ Socials:Twitter / X: @renjitphilip LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠⁠⁠ Vidya Veerapandian:⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠

    44 min
  7. 48: AI, Trust, and 40 Million Policies: How PolicyBazaar is Revolutionizing Insurance, again!

    06/26/2024

    48: AI, Trust, and 40 Million Policies: How PolicyBazaar is Revolutionizing Insurance, again!

    In this episode of FSBrew, the Middle East's premier podcast on insurance and insurtech, we sit down with Sarbvir Singh, Director & Joint Group CEO of PB Fintech (and PolicyBazaar), India's leading insurance marketplace. Sarbvir shares his journey from investment banking to leading one of India's most successful insurtech companies. He offers unique insights into PolicyBazaar's growth story, from its startup roots to becoming a publicly listed entity. Discover how PolicyBazaar is leveraging AI and data science to enhance sales productivity and manage risk. Sarbvir discusses the delicate balance between growth and profitability in the competitive insurtech space, and the company's strategic expansion into physical distribution through its POSP model. We explore the evolving Indian insurance market, regulatory landscape, and PolicyBazaar's vision to move "from transactions to trust." Sarbvir emphasizes the importance of customer experience, employee satisfaction, and strong partnerships with insurers. Whether you're an insurance professional, tech enthusiast, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights on innovation, leadership, and building a customer-centric business in a rapidly evolving market. Join hosts Vidya and Ranjit as they unpack the strategies and philosophies driving one of India's most innovative insurance platforms. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the future of insurance and digital transformation in the industry. Renjit Philip: Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.onemorethinginai.com⁠⁠⁠ Socials: Twitter / X: @renjitphilip LinkedIn:  ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠⁠⁠ Vidya Veerapandian: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠

    45 min

About

Welcome to FS Brew! FS Brew is the region’s first podcast focussing on insurance and insurtech in the UAE and the broader Middle East. We are based in the startup magnet, a city of dreamers and visionaries- Dubai! In every episode, the hosts, Vidya Veerapandian and Renjit Philip, have in-depth conversations with industry experts on insurtech, insurance, venture capital, digital transformation, actuarial science, and many other topics. Renjit Philip: www.linkedin.com/in/renjit-philip⁠ www.onemorethinginai.com Vidya Veerapandian: www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-veerapandian/⁠

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