IDD and Distribution Risk Management

Abstract

AbstractDistribution is a key aspect of insurers’ business models. Insurance companies use multi-channel and multi touch-point distribution methods to target their customers. Insurers must manage the distribution risk arising from actions of the distribution channel, which have the potential to impact the quality and volume of the insured portfolio, the insurer’s income-generating capacity, long-term financial sustainability and brand value. In this chapter we discuss the implications of the introduction of the Insurance Distribution Directive (IDD) on distribution risk management and on firm’s entire value chain. The expected impact of IDD main provisions (demands and needs analysis, suitability and appropriateness requirements, remuneration and incentive mechanisms, conflicts of interest dispositions, cross-selling, POG, information to customers, CPD) on product development, sales and distribution, underwriting and policy administration, claims, asset and customer management activities are analysed, considering the influence of digitalization on insurance distribution and value chain.