Elite Risk Acceptances

17/02/2026

The shift to electric and hybrid vehicles is gaining momentum in South Africa, but it remains a measured transition rather than an overnight change.

Recent data from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) shows that in 2025, consumer preference leaned strongly toward traditional hybrid vehicles, with 12,818 units sold. Interest in plug‑in hybrids increased notably year on year, while fully electric vehicle sales declined slightly, by around 13%.

This reflects a cautious approach to electrification, as buyers balance cost, infrastructure and everyday practicality.

If you are considering a hybrid vehicle this year, a few insurance considerations are worth keeping in mind:
• Insurance costs and repairs
Electric and hybrid vehicles often require specialised repairs, which can influence premiums. While these costs may reduce over time as adoption increases, they remain an important factor today.
• Tailored cover
Ensure your policy specifically protects EV‑related components such as batteries and charging equipment, which may not be adequately covered under standard motor policies.
• Your individual risk profile
Premiums are influenced by more than the vehicle itself. Factors such as driving history, location, make and model, and even vehicle colour can all play a role.

As vehicle technology evolves, ensuring your insurance keeps pace is essential to protecting both performance and value.



*Image by frimufilms on Freepik

16/02/2026

Coastal living is attracting renewed interest, but location brings its own risks.

With more South Africans looking to coastal cities for lifestyle and investment opportunities, it’s worth remembering that buying a high‑value home is only part of the equation. Protecting it properly matters just as much.

As Tarina Vlok, Managing Director at Elite Risk, explains:
“Insurance for high‑value homes should be based on replacement cost, not market value. That means allowing for the full cost of rebuilding, including outbuildings, landscaping and professional fees.”

Coastal properties often command prices well above their rebuild cost because of their setting. But rebuilding in these areas can be complex, particularly where materials, skilled labour or access may be limited.

Understanding these risks early, and working with a specialist insurer, helps ensure your home and your investment are properly protected from the start.

13/02/2026

Valentine’s Day is changing, and so is the way we give.

From personalised gifts to luxury experiences, spending around Valentine’s Day is increasingly focused on meaning rather than tradition. Recent insights from the National Retail Federation (USA) point to a few clear trends shaping how people celebrate:

• Gifting is no longer just for romantic partners. Many people now buy for family, friends and even pets
• High‑value and bespoke gifts, including jewellery and luxury items, continue to feature strongly
• Experiences are increasingly valued over physical objects

With these trends in mind, it’s important to think beyond the moment of giving.

As Tarina Vlok, Managing Director at Elite Risk, advises, high‑value gifts should be protected from the moment they’re purchased, not weeks later. That means formally specifying items on your insurance policy, confirming they’re correctly valued, and ensuring cover is in place immediately.

Thoughtful gifting deserves thoughtful protection, so that special moments remain just that.



*Image by ASphotofamily on Freepik

BESPOKE WEALTH ASSET PROTECTION FOR THE DISCERNING

Wealth Asset Insurance from Elite provides a personalised and tailored solution to non-life insurance and personal risk management for people with sophisticated needs.

12/02/2026

Did you know? Flooding is one of the biggest risks to fine wine collections.

South African wine has been 367 years in the making. Since the first Cape wine was produced in 1659, fine wine has become more than something to enjoy. It is an asset with real value.

As Tarina Vlok, our Managing Director, explains, "Thoughtful cellar design and appropriate temperature control are essential to safeguarding wine, whether it is enjoyed now or held as a long term investment."

Protecting fine wine isn’t just about storage: it’s about understanding the risks and planning for them.



*Image by wayhomestudio on Freepik

11/02/2026

We recently observed , a timely reminder of the importance of staying on top of your insurance cover and make sure it still reflects your vehicle, your lifestyle, and your level of risk. A few practical checks can make a meaningful difference:
• Review your cover annually: Vehicle values typically decrease over time, and your cover should be adjusted accordingly.
• Keep your insurer informed of any changes, from vehicle modifications to home renovations.
•Ensure all non-factory fitted accessories are specifically noted on your policy.
• Follow manufacturer maintenance guidelines and service your vehicle regularly to help avoid unnecessary complications at claims stage.

As Tarina Vlok, Managing Director at Elite Risk, notes:
“Many claims issues can be avoided simply by understanding what your policy actually covers. Your broker plays a critical role in helping you navigate the details and ensuring your cover keeps pace with changes in your life.”



*Image by HelloDavidPradoPerucha on Freepik

30/01/2026

30/01/2026

The market for pre-owned luxury goods is booming, and according to McKinsey’s The State of Fashion 2026 report, the secondhand market it is predicted to grow at two to three times the pace of the firsthand market over the next year.

Consumers are increasingly drawn to pre-owned designer goods for their unique style, historical value, and relative affordability, however one issue continues to dominate the conversation: trust. In fact, around 20% of online discussions about luxury resale focus on finding platforms that can guarantee authenticity.

“When considering a designer purchase, authenticity is the best protection one can have, which is why it’s essential to know what markers to look for,” says Tarrina Vlok, MD of Elite Risk.

Closely inspect the item for correct logo placement, quality stitching, materials, and craftsmanship, and research the brand’s identifying details beforehand. Genuine pieces are typically accompanied by high-quality packaging, dust bags, or care cards, while poor or inconsistent packaging should be taken as a warning sign.

Price can also be a reliable indicator. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stick to reputable retailers and be cautious when buying through social media or unverified sources.

Finally, retain receipts and documentation and make sure your luxury items are properly insured. Choose an insurer who understands the value of designer goods and can replace them at current market value if needed.

*Image by vecstock on Freepik

BESPOKE WEALTH ASSET PROTECTION FOR THE DISCERNING

Wealth Asset Insurance from Elite provides a personalised and tailored solution to non-life insurance and personal risk management for people with sophisticated needs.

23/01/2026

2025 Customer Satisfaction Metrics

In 2024, we asked our brokers and advisors for honest feedback on how Elite Risk could improve — and we listened.
That input helped shape how we approached key projects, operational efficiency and training initiatives across the business, ultimately strengthening both our culture and financial position.

The Elite Risk 2025 Customer Satisfaction Metrics are officially in, and the results speak for themselves:
• Claims service levels averaged 96%, with many days clocking in at 100%
• The claims net effort score, improved by 38% from 2024 to reach 67 in 2025
• Complaints were down 42% year-on-year, with a complaints-to-claims ratio of only 1.3%
• On telephony, we reached a service level of 96% and achieved faster response times, with calls answered in 4 seconds on average
• Administration service levels held steady at 81% for the year

Thank you to our client service teams for their consistency and effort in supporting these improvements and to our broker partners: thank you for your candid feedback and continued support. We look forward to building on this momentum together in 2026.

21/01/2026

Protecting your home from wildfires this dry summer

South Africa’s dry summer conditions are creating ideal conditions for wildfires, putting homes and property at increased risk. The Western Cape is particularly vulnerable to this threat, as summer fires have already claimed over 100,000 hectares of land since the turn of the new year, ravaging several biodiversity corridors, vineyards and properties in the Winelands District. With areas like Stanford and Pearly Beach, in the Overstrand municipality, having been placed on high alert due to a blaze lasting several days.

Fires don’t just threaten your existing assets, they also eat into your future investments, as it often takes years to fully rebuild from the loss. From an insurance perspective, preparation and mitigation can make a significant difference to both safety and claims outcomes.

When wildfires are near, homeowners should focus on creating a defensible space by clearing dry vegetation, leaves, and debris within 10–15 meters of the home. Firefighters advise watering the plant beds around the house, as well as the walls and doors on the house itself. Securing openings such as windows, doors, and vents is also critical when the fire risk is high, as this can prevent embers from entering the property.

Finally, reviewing your insurance cover ensures your property and contents are adequately protected against fire-related damage. “Wildfire risk is highest during prolonged dry conditions,” says Tarina Vlok, MD of Elite Risk. “From an insurance standpoint, being proactive in reducing hazards around your home not only protects property but also strengthens your claim position if the unexpected happens.”

*Image from Feepiks

15/01/2026

Elite team year-end function

Last month, we brought the full Elite team together for our annual year end picnic. With everyone in stunning an all-white attire, the celebration quickly became a highlight of the year.

Our Johannesburg team met for coffee at Tokara before heading to the beautiful Klein Blouklip farm, where lawn games, a long picnic and a delicious braai created the perfect relaxed atmosphere for reconnecting and unwinding as a team.

Thank you to Urban Motion for curating an exceptional event, and to the Elite team for their presence, their commitment throughout the year and for representing the Mutualite spirit so well during the event.

06/01/2026

When was the last time you checked your insurance cover?

Many people assume that once a policy is in place, they’re fully protected , but when it comes to insurance “set and forget” rules do not apply. Over time, the value of your assets, homes, vehicles, and valuables can change. Which is why it is essential to insure assets at replacement value and vehicles at retail value to avoid being underinsured.

“An annual insurance review is more than a formality, it’s your safeguard,” says Tarina Vlok, Managing Director at Elite Risk. “As your circumstances and possessions evolve, your cover needs to evolve with them. A review ensures you’re fully protected when it matters most.”

Proactive protection ensures you are fully prepared for whatever comes next. Use your review to update policies, check for gaps in cover, and adjust limits to reflect your current lifestyle



*Image by HelloDavidPradoPerucha on Freepik