Life insurers well placed on valuation, margin expansion triggers

Business Standard
2026.04.23 00:39
portai
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Life insurers experienced a significant rise in new business premiums (NBP) in FY26, with a 15.7% year-on-year growth, despite uneven momentum heading into FY27 due to global uncertainties. Private insurers outpaced LIC, with SBI Life leading individual APE growth at 8.5% in March. Valuations in the sector are attractive, and VNB margins are expected to improve as GST changes normalize. However, potential regulatory changes could pose risks, particularly for SBI Life, which maintains strong growth and margins. Overall, growth in retail protection and annuity products is anticipated to enhance return ratios across insurers.