There has, however, undoubtedly been a gradual evolution in the transparency of the underwriting process - origins which can be traced back to when protection insurers started publishing their claims statistics some 15 years ago, but the main push has been more recent. 

The underwriting process had been largely unknown to advisers, and it was quite hard for them to find out why customers received adverse claims decisions.    

But the industry realised it needed to do more to earn the trust of advisers and consumers.

And with an insurer’s underwriting strategy having a significant impact on its solvency, the past year could certainly have been a cause for concern.

According to rating’s agency, Moody’s, the impact of coronavirus on European life insurers has been limited as the virus mostly affects older people, who are typically not insured.

But there is more concern about the potential impact of ultra-low interest rates and other investment risks, which affect insurers of all types. 

This guide will explore how insurer underwriting strategy has been evolving, how providers are responding in turbulent times, while trying to maintain and strengthen consumer trust.

The guide is worth an indicative 60 minutes of CPD.