Reaffirming the strength and stability of HNB Assurance PLC Group, Fitch Ratings upgraded the ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’ (IFS) of both HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) from ‘A(lka)’ to ‘A+(lka)’ citing stable outlooks.
The Rating Actions Commentary issued by Fitch on the 3rd of June 2021 states “The upgrade reflects the insurers' improved capital position, as measured by strong regulatory risk-based capital (RBC) ratios. The ratings also take into account the insurers' 'Favourable' business profiles and a sustained improvement in their non-life underwriting performance, while maintaining satisfactory earnings in its life insurance operation”.
Sharing her views, Chairperson of HNB Assurance PLC Group, Mrs. Rose Cooray stated, “This indeed is another significant achievement for HNB Assurance as well as HNB General Insurance and demonstrates very clearly to the market the singular focus of both companies on maintaining and building their strength and stability. HNBA’s Life Fund has exceeded LKR 17.8 BN, HNBGI’s Contract Liabilities stood at LKR 3.5 BN while the Total Assets of the Group surpassed LKR 32.9 BN by the end of the first quarter of 2021.” Mrs. Cooray further went on to state, “For our Group, it’s not business at any cost, rather, our drive is towards consolidated growth being driven through the focus on key business fundamentals and a prudent outlook to risk underwriting.” She further noted, “this rating upgrade augurs well for the soundness of strategies that have been crafted for both companies as well as for the capability and business acumen of the Management Teams. This will no doubt fortify our position in the market as a solid player and further infuse confidence in the mindset of key stakeholders to transact with both the Companies. I wish to thank each and every member of both teams for their dedication and commitment especially during these trying times that has enabled us to receive this upgrade in ratings by Fitch”.
Chief Executive Officer of HNBA and HNBGI, Mr. Prasantha Fernando shared his thoughts stating, “We are delighted to announce the news of this upgrade to all our stakeholders. The ratings of HNBA and HNBGI have been upgraded by Fitch Ratings upon reviewing the business profiles, the improved capital position, and the sustainable underwriting performance of both entities. Further, an upgrade of this nature demonstrates our consolidated financial strength, low business risk and solid operational performance. Whist thanking Fitch Ratings for this recognition and all our stakeholders for being with us throughout our journey, it is with great reassurance I state that the management of both entities remain confident of driving our performance up further and are well positioned for growth.” Mr. Fernando added “I am happy to note that the Group recorded a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of LKR 3.2 BN for the first quarter of 2021. The Life Insurance business posted a remarkable 51% growth in GWP achieving LKR 1.6 BN and the General Insurance business recorded a GWP of LKR 1.6 BN marking a 27% growth. It is noteworthy to mention that the market rank of HNBGI has improved by one notch to the 7th position during the quarter with the growth in GWP.” Mr. Fernando further stated “the contribution of our Parent Company HNB too has helped us in this achievement and I am truly grateful to the Bank’s Corporate Management and the members of its branch network for all the support that they have given us.” Speaking on the contribution of the team, Mr. Fernando stated “each and every member of the HNBA and HNBGI teams have played a part in contributing towards this achievement, I am truly grateful and thankful to every single one of them for rallying around the Group and giving their best at all times. This upgrade has us all energized, excited and invigorated, and will, I am sure, further bolster the drive and passion of every team member to do better during these difficult times”.
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) is one of the fastest growing Insurance Companies in Sri Lanka with a network of 63 branches. HNBA is a Life Insurance company with a rating of 'A+ (lka)' by Fitch Ratings Lanka for ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’. Following the introduction of the segregation rules by the Insurance Regulator, HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) was created and commenced its operations in January 2015; HNBGI continues to specialize in motor, non-motor and Takaful insurance solutions and is a fully owned subsidiary of HNB Assurance PLC. HNB General Insurance has been assigned a ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’ of ‘’A+’’ (lka) by Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited. HNBA is rated within the Top 100 brands and Top 100 companies in Sri Lanka by LMD and HNB Assurance has won international awards for Brand Excellence, Digital Marketing and HR Excellence including the Great Place To Work® Certification, and won many awards for its Annual Reports at award ceremonies organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka.
Jun
As HNB Life enters a new chapter following its transition from HNB Assurance to HNB Life, the company continues to build on a proud 25-year legacy of protecting and empowering Sri Lankans. Marking this milestone through meaningful community engagement, HNB Life celebrated the Vesak season with a series of initiatives centered on gratitude, togetherness, and shared blessings.The celebrations commenced with a special effort to recognize and promote local entrepreneurs who contribute to the vibrant Vesak season each year. By shining a spotlight on small business owners operating Vesak-related stalls and ventures, HNB Life sought to support their livelihoods while encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit that strengthens communities across the country.The company further extended its involvement through a series of activities at Lankaramaya in Anuradhapura, including the painting of the sacred stupa and participation in several Vesak-related community events, bringing together employees, partners, and well-wishers.As HNB Life begins this new era, the Vesak season served as a meaningful reminder of the relationships and trust that have shaped the company's journey over the past 25 years. The transition from HNB Assurance to HNB Life represents more than a change in name, it reflects the company's continued evolution and renewed commitment to helping individuals and families protect what matters most while achieving long-term financial wellbeing.The Vesak initiatives were carried out with the intention of sharing positivity and seeking blessings for customers, employees, business partners, and communities across Sri Lanka. They also serve as a precursor to a series of Poson-related activities planned for the coming weeks, further reinforcing the company's commitment to engaging with communities and celebrating the values that bring people together.
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Jun
Marking a significant milestone in its journey as it celebrates 25 years of trust and transformation, HNB Life has introduced Privileged Protect, a novel universal life insurance solution designed to meet the evolving financial and protection needs of modern Sri Lankans.Developed as an evolved protection offering, Privileged Protect combines short-term premium commitments with long-term financial security, giving customers the flexibility to build wealth while safeguarding their future and loved ones.Designed for individuals seeking comprehensive life protection with greater financial convenience, the product offers a shorter premium paying term while ensuring continued long-term coverage and investment growth opportunities. The policy also includes six compulsory protection benefits, dividend and loyalty dividend entitlements, partial withdrawal facilities after five years, and the ability to convert the maturity value into a monthly income stream. Customers are also provided the flexibility to continue optional riders beyond the premium paying term and enhance their investment through top-up premiums.Commenting on the launch, Lasitha Wimalaratne, Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer of HNB Life, stated, “As we embark on a bold new chapter as HNB Life, the introduction of Privileged Protect reflects our commitment to continuously evolve alongside the changing aspirations of our customers. Today’s customer seeks greater flexibility, stronger protection, and smarter financial planning solutions that align with their lifestyle and long-term goals. This product has been thoughtfully designed to address those expectations while delivering the security and confidence our policyholders value. As we celebrate 25 years of excellence, we remain focused on shaping the future of insurance through innovative solutions that are relevant, accessible, and future-ready.”Also sharing his thoughts, Dinesh Udawatta, Executive Vice President / Chief Technical Officer stated, “The modern customer is increasingly looking for insurance solutions that go beyond traditional protection. Privileged Protect is an evolved offering built around convenience, flexibility, and long-term value creation. It is designed for individuals who want to secure their future with shorter payment commitments while continuing to enjoy meaningful protection and wealth accumulation benefits. As HNB Life, we are committed to introducing customer-centric innovations that empower Sri Lankans to confidently plan for the future.”With the launch of Privileged Protect, HNB Life continues to strengthen its portfolio of future-focused insurance solutions, reinforcing its commitment to protecting lives while empowering customers to achieve long-term financial wellbeing in an ever-evolving world. HNB Life PLC is licensed by the IRCSL and all policyholders are advised to read the policy document before concluding a sale to understand benefits, exclusions, terms and conditions.
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May
HNB Life, previously known as HNB Assurance, proudly marks another milestone in its 25 year journey of trust and protection, securing the prestigious ‘Best Life Bancassurance Provider – Sri Lanka’ award from for the sixth consecutive year.This continued recognition reflects HNB Life’s enduring legacy, built over 25 years of delivering reliable, customer-centric insurance solutions and excellence in bancassurance.The accolade comes on the back of a remarkable year for HNB Life’s Partnership Channel, which surpassed LKR 10 billion in Gross Written Premium (GWP), recording an impressive 58% growth. The channel also achieved a 58% growth in New Business Premium (NBP), further demonstrating strong market momentum. Adding to this success, the channel recorded its highest-ever number of MDRT, COT, and TOT achievers, underscoring the strength and capability its sales force.Commenting on the achievement, Executive Director / CEO Lasitha Wimalaratne stated, “As we celebrate 25 years of trust, this recognition holds special significance for us. Winning this award for the sixth consecutive year is a testament to the strong foundation we have built over the years as HNB Assurance, and the exciting future we are shaping as HNB Life. I must convey my sincere gratitude to our parent company Hatton National Bank, along with our valued bancassurance partners, for their continued trust and support, which has been instrumental in this journey. It also reflects the confidence our customers place in us and the dedication of our teams who consistently strive for excellence.”Executive Vice President / Chief Business Officer – Partnerships, Sanesh Fernando, also shared his thoughts, “This achievement is a reflection of the incredible journey we have built together with our partners over the years. Crossing the LKR 10 billion mark with a 58% growth, alongside achieving our highest MDRT, COT, and TOT numbers, is a proud moment for all of us. It speaks to the strength of our partnerships, the resilience of our teams, and our shared vision to deliver meaningful protection solutions to our customers. As we step into this next chapter as HNB Life, we are excited about what lies ahead and the opportunity to build on this momentum. Winning this award for the sixth consecutive year is truly special and I’d like to sincerely thank the management of Hatton National Bank, our partner banks, and our broker network for standing by us and supporting us every step of the way.”
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