Will freeing up capital innovate protection?

clock •

The Financial Services Authority's proposal to free-up capital across the life insurance industry has led some providers to suggest there could be reduced premiums and greater innovation across the protection industry.

The FSA’s consultation paper – Prudential changes for insurers – proposes to free-up capital by applying the ICAS regime for with-profits business to non-profits business as well. It claims the changes will free up about £4bn of capital across the life insurance industry, as the ICAS regime requires insurers to make their own calculation of the level of capital needed for their business. But will this extra capital have any positive effects on the protection industry, for example by encouraging greater innovation and growing the market? Nick Kirwan, protection market director at Sc...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Protection

Why IHT on pensions is a protection advice opportunity

Why IHT on pensions is a protection advice opportunity

Pension accumulation can no longer be considered separately from protection and estate planning

Naomi Greatorex
clock 23 September 2026 • 3 min read
FCA's Reynolds: 'We want to see a real improvement in financial inclusion because it matters'

FCA's Reynolds: 'We want to see a real improvement in financial inclusion because it matters'

In conversation with Graeme Reynolds, director of competition, FCA

Cameron Roberts
clock 22 September 2026 • 7 min read
FCA Pure Protection Market Study: Key milestones

FCA Pure Protection Market Study: Key milestones

A timeline of key developments

Jaskeet Briah
clock 21 September 2026 • 5 min read