HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM INCREASE
Pick your own health cover: How custom plans work and their hidden downsides
A health plan consists of a base plan and riders or add-ons. Earlier, the base plan comprised fixed features that could not be changed, and one could add only 2-3 riders—usually critical illness, personal accident, co-pay/ deductible—at the time of purchasing the policy.
Why are hospital stocks defying market volatility? Demand, beds and growth plans
Over the past five years, the sector has delivered strong growth, with revenues rising about 15.5% annually between FY2019-20 and FY2024-25, while EBITDA (Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) grew faster at around 25%. This was driven by higher insurance-led payments ensuring steadier revenues, strong demand for profitable inpatient care, and aggressive expansion in beds and facilities.
IFC, domestic funds back Brookfield India REIT’s Rs 2,600-cr QIP
Brookfield India Real Estate Trust is raising Rs 2,600 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement. Major investors include IFC, Whiteoak Capital, HDFC Life Insurance, Axis Max Life Insurance, and PPFAS Mutual Fund. The funds will support acquisitions and debt repayment. This fundraising follows significant capital raised since 2023. The REIT has expanded its operational assets considerably.
Cabinet clears Rs 12,980 crore maritime insurance pool to cut costs
India is launching the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool, backed by a substantial sovereign guarantee of over ₹12,980 crore. This strategic initiative aims to offer unwavering maritime insurance coverage for Indian vessels, encompassing all maritime risks and significantly decreasing dependency on international insurers.
HDFC Life Insurance shares tank 4% on Q4 results. What are Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs saying?
HDFC Life Insurance share price declined 4% after announcing plans to raise Rs 1,000 crore from HDFC Bank via preferential issue, alongside March quarter earnings growth. Profit rose 4% YoY, while premiums grew 9%. Brokerages remain mixed, with target prices ranging from Rs 725 to Rs 745 amid growth concerns.
Stocks in news: Wipro, HUL, Angel One, Alembic Pharma, HDFC Life
Markets ended flat on Thursday after a volatile session, with analysts maintaining a positive outlook and recommending a buy-on-dips strategy. Key stocks like Wipro, HUL, Angel One, Alembic Pharma, and HDFC Life are in focus due to Q4 results and corporate actions.
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Why ‘unlimited’ or ‘100% restoration’ benefit in health insurance may not save you from a big hospital bill; here’s what policyholders should know
Health insurance restoration benefits, often misunderstood as unlimited coverage, restore your sum insured only after it's fully exhausted within the policy year. However, they have specific conditions and limitations. Understanding these nuances is crucial to avoiding underinsurance during medical emergencies.
HDFC Life Q4 Results: HDFC Bank to increase stake in the company as profit rises 4% YoY
HDFC Life Insurance will issue shares worth one thousand crore rupees to promoter HDFC Bank. This move aims to strengthen the insurer's solvency and support future growth. The company reported a modest profit rise in the March quarter. Net premium income also saw an increase. The board recommended a final dividend for FY26.
ICICI Lombard General Insurance shares in focus after Q4 net profit rises 7%. What are Morgan Stanley, HDFC Securities saying?
Shares of ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company are likely to be in focus after reporting stable Q4 FY26 performance, with profit after tax rising 7.3% year-on-year to Rs 547 crore. The company saw improved combined ratio, strong premium growth, and maintained a robust solvency position, while brokerages remained mixed on ratings and target prices.
Buyback alert! Last date to buy Aurobindo Pharma shares for Rs 800-crore share buyback. Check details
Aurobindo Pharma has announced an ₹800-crore buyback at ₹1,475 per share, with April 17, 2026 set as the record date—meaning investors must buy shares before this date to be eligible.
What is Bab el-Mandeb? The critical trade route Iran threatens to shut down
The Iran Red Sea trade threat has intensified sharply, with tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz falling below 10% of its normal daily volume. This is a critical global chokepoint. The crisis is escalating fast. Iran has warned it may expand disruption into the Red Sea and nearby routes. The U.S. blockade ordered by Donald Trump has increased tensions further. Global oil supply is at risk. Shipping costs are rising. Markets are reacting. The Iran Red Sea trade threat now signals deeper instability ahead.
New Zealand eases health insurance rules for Peak Seasonal Visa from April 19
New Zealand is easing health insurance rules for the Peak Seasonal Visa starting April 19, 2026. This change aims to simplify compliance for migrants and employers. The updated policy will align insurance needs with products readily available in the New Zealand market. This adjustment is expected to reduce application uncertainties and speed up visa processing for seasonal workers.
Muthoot Finance seeks shareholder nod for entry into insurance distribution biz
Muthoot Finance is gearing up for a pivotal growth phase as it seeks shareholder approval to venture into the insurance distribution arena. This bold step encompasses a wide range of offerings, including life, general, and health insurance products, marking the company's ambition to become a comprehensive corporate agent in India's insurance landscape.
ICICI Prudential Life shares zoom 7% after Q4 profit surges 58%. Should you buy, sell or hold?
ICICI Prudential Life shares jumped 7% after the insurer reported a 58% YoY rise in Q4FY26 net profit to Rs 609 crore and announced a final dividend. For FY26, profit grew 35% to Rs 1,600 crore, aided by a stake sale. Net premium income rose 17%, driven by strong growth in one-time and renewal premiums.
ICICI Pru Life Q4 Results: Profit jumps 58% YoY to Rs 609 crore; premium growth steady
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance reported a 58% jump in March-quarter profit to Rs 609 crore, while FY26 profit rose 35% to Rs 1,600 crore. Premium growth remained strong, led by one-time policies. The insurer expects retail demand to benefit from tax cuts, though market-linked product demand may stay subdued amid ongoing volatility in equity markets.
I am 80 and my wife is 78. Can we increase our coverage to Rs 10 lakh each?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: I am 80 and my wife is 78. We currently have medical insurance coverage of Rs 7 lakh each. We would like to increase the coverage to Rs 10 lakh each. Is this -possible?
LIC announces its first-ever 1:1 bonus issue. Check key dates, issue size and other details
LIC has announced its first-ever 1:1 bonus issue, signalling strong financial health and rewarding shareholders. The move will increase liquidity without impacting market capitalisation. Backed by robust Q3 earnings growth, the insurer continues to deliver steady performance, though its stock shows mixed trends in the short and medium term.
These large-caps have ‘strong buy’ & ‘buy’ recos and an upside potential of up to 25%
It is tough to think positively about the markets when all the news is about blockades, wars, and everything that can disturb the global economy. But remember this: Whatever its intensity or length, there is enough historical evidence to show that markets have a greater probability of trading at a higher level a few months after a war. And no war in the Gulf has dragged on. So, all one needs is patience – and the ability to think beyond the war.
Prudential Plc names Amit Dave as CEO, Abhishek Saraf as COO
Prudential Plc has appointed Amit Dave as CEO and Abhishek Saraf as COO for its upcoming health insurance joint venture with HCL Group in India. These appointments, pending regulatory approval, signal the venture's progress towards launching its standalone health insurance operations. The venture, a 70:30 partnership, is nearing final clearance after navigating regulatory hurdles.
LIC shares in focus ahead of board meeting to consider first-ever bonus issue. Check details
LIC shares will be in focus as the insurer considers its first-ever bonus issue, signalling confidence in its financial strength. While the move won’t impact market capitalisation, it could enhance liquidity and investor participation. Strong recent earnings and consistent dividends support optimism despite recent stock underperformance in 2026.
NICU care can cost Rs 5,000-10,000 per day: Why parents should know about newborn coverage and its sub-limits in health insurance
Parents buy maternity cover for delivery, but the bigger financial risk is complications after birth.
Will your hospital bills fall with new IRDAI move? Know how policyholders will be impacted with the formation of this new panel
Policyholders facing rising premiums, slow claims, and opaque hospital pricing will soon see changes. IRDAI's new sub-committee aims to simplify health insurance, boost transparency, and improve claim processing. Key focus areas include streamlining digital systems, controlling fraud, and enhancing coordination between private and public health schemes for a better consumer experience.
LIC likely to announce its first-ever bonus issue tomorrow: Check key things to know
Life Insurance Corporation of India is expected to announce its first-ever bonus share issue after its April 13 board meeting. The move may enhance liquidity and investor participation, supported by strong financials, steady growth, and consistent dividend payouts since its 2022 listing.
US Republicans block bid to rein in Trump's Iran war powers
House Republicans blocked a Democratic attempt to end U.S. attacks on Iran, continuing to prevent efforts to limit President Trump's war powers. Democrats vow to force war powers votes again after recess, citing Trump's threats and concerns over civilian infrastructure. The move comes amid discussions of impeachment and linking foreign policy to domestic affordability issues.
General insurance reports 9% GWP growth in FY26
India's general insurance sector saw robust growth in FY26. Gross written premium increased by 9%, reaching ₹3.36 lakh crore. This expansion was fueled by private insurers and strong demand for health and motor policies. Standalone health insurers outperformed, showing a significant 22% rise. This segment continues to be a key driver for the industry's overall success.
NRI term insurance demand doubles in two years; younger buyers drive growth
Demand for term insurance among Non-Resident Indians has doubled in two years, with a 35% month-on-month surge following West Asian tensions. Younger NRIs, aged 25-35, now dominate demand, prioritizing financial protection for families in India amidst global uncertainties. Digital processes and lower costs are driving this trend.
Tiruppur garment orders drop 15% as US, Europe demand weakens amid Iran War
Tiruppur's apparel exports faced a 15% drop in March from the US and Europe. Buyers there held existing stock amid inflation concerns. Demand from West Asia halted due to the Iran war. This disrupted trade routes and increased costs. Manufacturers are also seeing rising input prices.
Health insurers rise after US lifts 2027 Medicare Advantage payment rates
U.S. health insurer stocks surged after the government announced higher-than-expected Medicare Advantage payment rates for 2027, unlocking over $13 billion in additional payouts. The move eased concerns after weak earlier proposals, with analysts expecting improved margins and renewed investor confidence across the sector amid rising medical costs.
India’s group health insurance shifts to points-based flexible benefits as employees demand choice
The landscape of group health insurance in India is undergoing a transformation. Organizations are shifting away from rigid, one-size-fits-all policies towards customizable options. Employees now have the ability to select from a range of benefits such as dental care, vision plans, and mental health services.
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