Comprehensive insurance strategies across generations

By Elmarie Strauss – PSG Insure Adviser

By Elmarie Strauss – PSG Insure Adviser

Published Aug 19, 2024

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The differences between generations, particularly in their short-term insurance needs, have become a significant point of discussion.

Generations are shaped by unique historical, social, and economic contexts that influence their values, behaviours, and perspectives. Understanding these differences is not just crucial; it's enlightening. It provides insights into their distinct approaches to life, work, and relationships, making us more informed and knowledgeable. This understanding is key to evolving insurance strategies to meet the diverse needs of different generations. 

Gen Z (Born 1997-2012) and Millennials (Born 1981-1996), raised in the digital age, exhibit a strong affinity for online platforms. Their preference for convenience and digital communication is evident in their online information-seeking, independent research, and use of digital communication channels. Both generations are young drivers, requiring comprehensive motor vehicle insurance to protect them against accidents and liability. With a strong emphasis on digital and online businesses, protection against cyber threats and cyber liability is crucial for these generations.

Generation Z is just stepping into adulthood, balancing education, early career jobs, and the financial challenges of independence. They are also just beginning to enter the entrepreneurial world. They often bring fresh perspectives and leverage technology to innovate. Those engaged in freelancing or gig work will require unique protection against liability and business-related risks.  Their commercial insurance needs are geared towards start-up protection and flexibility. Given their high value on technology, short-term insurance for gadgets like smartphones and laptops can cover damage, loss, or theft. 

Elmarie Strauss, PSG Insure Adviser

Millennials are in the early to mid-stages of career development, business owners, and entrepreneurs, with a strong focus on innovation and flexibility. Their insurance needs reflect their dynamic business approach and adaptation to the digital economy. Professional liability becomes crucial for freelance professionals and service providers to protect them against negligence. General Liability and property insurance are fundamental protections for their physical and online businesses. 

Conversely, older generations like Baby Boomers (Born 1946-1964) and Generation X (Born 1965-1980), while not as digitally native, still hold traditional approaches in high regard. Their preference for in-person interactions with insurance advisers, face-to-face meetings, and trusted adviser guidance is a significant factor in their decision-making process. They often opt for phone calls or in-person meetings for insurance matters, underscoring the importance of maintaining traditional channels. 

Baby Boomers have accumulated assets over their lifetimes and seek to protect these from potential risks. Many Baby Boomers own established businesses and prioritise stability and risk management. Their extensive experience often leads them to value comprehensive coverage that safeguards their accumulated assets and ensures long-term business sustainability, providing them with a sense of security and peace of mind. With more time for travel, Baby Boomers benefit from comprehensive travel insurance, which can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies abroad, and lost luggage.  

Generation X is in its peak earning years, managing mature businesses or expanding its operations. They balance growth ambitions with the need for risk management and business protection.  With many Gen Xers owning homes and vehicles, ensuring adequate coverage for their property and liability is vital. Business owners acquire commercial and cyber liability insurance to transfer risks against unforeseen incidents, data breaches, cyber-attacks, and other cyber-related liabilities.

Short-term insurance strategies evolve to meet the distinct needs of different generations of business owners. Baby Boomers prioritise comprehensive coverage for stability and risk management, Generation X balances growth with assets and cyber protection, Millennials seek flexible and innovative insurance solutions for dynamic business models, and Generation Z focuses on start-up protection and digital risks. Your PSG Insure adviser understands these generational differences and ensures that everyone, including their businesses across all stages and industries, is adequately protected, promoting long-term success and resilience. 

Affiliates of the PSG Financial Services Group, a licensed controlling company, are authorised financial services providers. www.psg.co.za

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