Page 36 - Turkinsurance Digital Magazine

36 interview

Today, when there are banks and supermarkets operating solely significant responsibilities toward their clients. Supporting this
through digital channels, it is unrealistic to expect insurance and independence with a strong structure of representation and over-
insurance intermediation to remain in a different position. sight would enhance trust in the profession.

What regulatory needs do you see for brokers to work more Organizing under a chamber or an association would make it
effectively? possible to define standards and ethical guidelines, expand pro-
fessional training, and ensure fair competition within the sector.
Regulatory compliance is also critical. For data to be processed It would also provide a unified voice in regulatory and legislative
properly, sharing must occur in a secure environment. In this re- efforts with public authorities.
gard, we see the Insurance and Private Pension Regulation and
Supervision Agency (SEDDK) as supportive. I hope that the nec- When we look at developed insurance markets, we see that bro-
essary steps will be taken in a healthy manner through upcoming kers, through their professional associations, not only preserve
regulatory updates. their professional reputation but also provide higher added val-
Additionally, a clear distinction must be made between who is an ue to clients. A similar structure in Türkiye would increase the
agent and who is a broker. Just as there are brokers who act like sector’s credibility on an international level and make it more
agents, there are also agents who act like brokers. It is essential visible in global markets.
to clarify these roles. For this reason, individuals and institutions
must move away from the mindset of “let the business come, no Today, we have over 220 intermediary
matter how.”
institutions.

On the other hand, in order for brokers to increase their strength
and production, it is crucial to spread insurance awareness and Could you tell us about your activities and influence in this
the concept of brokerage to a wider audience. Customers should field as an association?
more clearly understand that a broker does not merely sell pol-
icies but acts as an independent advisor who analyzes risks and Today, there are 222 licensed brokers operating in Türkiye. As
brings the most suitable solution from different companies. As the Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers Association (SBD), we
this awareness grows, production will naturally increase. currently have 204 members. Even non-member brokers are in-
cluded in the regulatory processes through our association.
Finally, it is of great importance for sustainable growth to es-
tablish a framework that meets the sector’s needs and simultane- Our members include not only Türkiye’s largest brokerage firms
ously strengthens brokers’ role as independent advisors, in close but also boutique companies operating in various areas of spe-
cooperation with the regulatory authority. cialization. All our members are authorized by the Insurance and
Private Pension Regulation and Supervision Agency (SEDDK)
Why is professional organization critical for the future of and are subject to regular audits.
brokerage?
The portfolio we represent in the market is noteworthy both in
Although brokerage is a form of insurance/reinsurance interme- volume and in quality. As an association, we continuously carry
diation, it must be defined as a distinct profession and placed out training, regulatory monitoring, and sectoral cooperation in-
under the structure of a professional organization. Brokers oper- itiatives to support our members in delivering services at inter-
ate independently from insurance companies, while also bearing national standards.