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Neobanks – Potential for Embedded Insurance

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Neobanks are trying to bridge the gap between the offerings of traditional banks and the expectations of customers in this digital era.

What does traditional banking bring to customers? Complex processes, problems with ATMs and load of papers for account opening and loan approval. On the other side, neobanks with their business model are trying to fight these stereotypes by offering digital banking platforms with end-2-end services, no or low fees and excellent customer experience.

Neobanks are trying to bridge the gap between the offerings of traditional banks and the expectations of customers in this digital era.

What is a Neobank?

Neobanks, which are sometimes referred to as “challenger banks” are financial institutions that have positioned themselves as the cheaper alternative in comparison to traditional ones. They are fintech companies offering different technological solutions (like apps or software) to modernise mobile and online banking. In most cases they are focused on specific financial products (e.g. loans, accounts, savings) leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to offer tailor made services to the customer while, at the same time, minimising operating costs.

Neobanks vs Traditional Banks

Neobanks are still on the rise, but it would be hard to expect them to have many advantages over the traditional banks. Traditional banks have two very crucial advantages – money sources and the trust of their customers. Still, their complex legacy systems are the major burden they are carrying and for them it will be difficult to adapt to the digital needs of the technologically oriented generation.

On the other hand, neobanks might not be “equipped” with money sources like traditional banks, but they can fight in other areas – field of innovation – allowing them to act faster to the demanding needs of the customer by introducing innovative products fast and easy and offering excellent customer service.

Popular Neobanks

CHIME
With more than 12 million users, Chime is the most recognised brand in the neobank space in the U.S. The platform eliminates many of the common fees typically associated with traditional banks and provides credit-building opportunities, early access to direct deposit payments and automatic savings features with a competitive annual percentage yield.

VARO BANK
Initially founded as neobank in 2020, Varo Bank was changed to a bank. It offers services like Chime, including no monthly or overdraft fees and no minimum balance requirement. Users don’t need to undergo a credit check to open an account.

CURRENT
Current has also attracted hundreds of thousands of customers in the U.S. It offers benefits such as early access to direct deposit, fee-free overdrafts and cash back on debit card purchases.

Embedded Insurance for Neobanks

Working in the environment that is very competitive, like FinTech is, makes offering embedded insurance the best way to catch the interest of the customer. Insurance not only helps bringing trust in the mobile banking app by protecting customers purchases but increases the expenses of the customer and, ultimately the revenue for the neobank.

Embedding insurance plays a crucial role in the customer acquisition process by creating additional value for the customer in terms of new and innovative product solutions and for the neobank in terms of enhanced and value-loaded banking products they can offer.

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Alma Ribanovic

Group Practice Leader Affinity

T +43 664 962 40 17