B Mirror Report: Bangladesh’s life insurance sector recorded a sharp improvement in claim settlements in the final quarter of 2025, though a large number of policyholders are still waiting for their dues.

Data from the Insurance Development and Regulatory Authority (IDRA) shows total claims reached Tk 13,158 crore by December, with Tk 8,755 crore settled and Tk 4,403 crore still unpaid. The settlement rate jumped to 67 percent from 35 percent in the previous quarter.

Out of 2.84 million matured policies, about 1.66 million customers received payments. Experts say year-end regulatory pressure, license renewals, and higher business volume boosted insurers’ liquidity and pushed settlements higher.

MetLife Bangladesh led the sector with a 98.3 percent settlement rate, followed by Progoti Life (98.5 percent) and Guardian Life (97.5 percent), driven by fast digital claim processing.

However, weak performers continue to delay payments, affecting public trust. IDRA has introduced reforms including company grading, special audits, and stricter laws with penalties for delayed settlements, aiming to clear all pending claims and restore confidence in the sector.