In this episode of Life Accelerated, host Olivier LaFontaine sits down with Andrew Kramer, VP and Head of Underwriting Risk & Innovation of M Financial Group, to discuss how innovation is reshaping underwriting and risk management in life insurance.

Andrew breaks down the innovative steps M Financial Group is taking to streamline underwriting processes, from embracing electronic health records to championing industry-wide data standardization. He shares how the company is tackling the challenges of high-net-worth insurance, balancing risk-sharing with the need for personalized service. This conversation provides insights into how digital transformation is reshaping customer experiences and creating efficiencies in one of the most complex areas of insurance.

Key Takeaways:

1. Rushing into digital transformation without standardization creates inefficiencies.
2. Digital innovation isn’t just about speed—it’s about enhancing decision-making.
3. Embracing digital standards can transform the underwriting process.

Jump Into the Conversation: (00:00) Why underwriting must lean into digital transformation

(02:00) What a quiet Tokyo subway teaches us about global business norms

(05:10) From reinsurance to M Financial Group

(10:00) Risk-sharing, distribution, and strategic partnerships

(15:15) How ACORD is solving inefficiencies in the value chain

(20:30) Unlocking new speed and accuracy in underwriting

(26:50) AI and the future of underwriting

(32:40) How data can sharpen distribution strategy

Resources:

• Connect with Andrew Kramer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-kramer-529b4b10/
• Check out M Financial Group Group: https://www.mfin.com/
• Connect with Olivier: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivierlafontaine/https://www.equisoft.com/podcasts