SanlamAllianz CEO speaks to merger, growth prospects

SanlamAllianz, a merger between Sanlam and Allianz in Ghana, has marked a new milestone in the financial services industry, aiming to leverage shared experiences to accelerate access to financial services across the continent. The CEO of SanlamAllianz, Heinie Werth, discussed the rationale behind the partnership, emphasizing the need for scale to provide quality products at competitive prices to clients. The merger aims to drive financial inclusion in underserved African markets by utilizing a variety of distribution channels and reducing costs through increased scale. Werth also highlighted the opportunities for creating value for both retail and corporate clients, mentioning the diverse market dynamics that influence product offerings in different countries. With over 200 years of combined experience in the insurance industry, SanlamAllianz seeks to tailor innovative solutions to local markets while leveraging global expertise. Werth also touched on the importance of leveraging technology to drive advancements in the financial services space, emphasizing the integration of automation and digital tools across all aspects of the business. Looking ahead, Werth discussed the growth projections and ambitions unlocked by the merger, emphasizing the benefits of diversification and targeting double-digit growth in all areas of business. Despite challenges such as high interest rates, inflation, and currency risks across Africa, SanlamAllianz remains optimistic about generating above-average returns for shareholders. The partnership aims to navigate these challenges through a diversified approach, offering a wide range of products to meet the varying needs of clients across the continent.