Health is Wealth: Why Star Health Insurance Is a Smart Investment?
India’s health insurance market is poised for exponential growth, making this the perfect time to consider investing in **Star Health and Allied Insurance**—the nation’s largest private health insurer. Here’s why Star Health Insurance is a smart investment opportunity to add it to your portfolio.
Table of contents
About Star Health and Allied Insurance
Founded in 2006, Star Health is India’s largest pure-play health insurer, commanding a 31% market share in retail health insurance. Operating across over **17,000 pin codes**, it boasts the most extensive agent network in the industry with more than 7 lakh agents. Retail health insurance contributes **91%** of its revenue, with the remainder coming from group health policies and emerging segments like travel and accident insurance.
Why Star Health Insurance Is a Smart Investment?
1. Market Leadership
Star Health leads the retail health insurance market, a segment that is expected to grow **29% annually** until FY29. Its focused strategy and innovative product portfolio position it as a dominant player in this fast-expanding sector.
2.Strong Growth Trajectory
Gross Written Premium Growth: The company’s gross written premium (GWP) has grown at a compounded annual rate of 24% over the last five years, and management anticipates doubling GWP to ₹30,000 crore by FY28. Pandemic Wake-Up Call: With only 20% of insured Indians covered under employer-provided insurance, retail health insurance is set to bridge the gap as individuals seek comprehensive coverage.
3. Extensive Distribution Network
With a presence in semi-urban and rural areas, the company leverages its agent network to penetrate underserved markets. Approximately 80% of FY24 revenue was generated through agents. Operates over 1,100 one-man offices in rural regions, strengthening its reach where competitors lag.
4. Customer-Centric Innovations
– Star Health has partnered with over 14,000 hospitals nationwide, achieving a 90% cashless claim settlement ratein FY24, up from 56% in FY22.
– Offers unique plans targeting niche needs, such as women’s health, mental health, and cancer care.
5. Expanding into Group Health Insurance
– Traditionally focused on retail, Star Health is now eyeing the SME market for group health insurance.
– Plans to increase the group segment’s share of GWP from 8% to 20% by FY28, capitalizing on the untapped SME base.
Valuation and Current Opportunity
Star Health’s stock currently trades at **35% below its IPO price of ₹907**, with a **price-to-sales ratio of 1.9x** and a **price-to-book ratio of 4.8x**. Following a cyberattack in September 2024, the stock dipped by 10%. However, the company’s record-high earnings in FY24 and optimistic growth outlook suggest this is a **temporary setback**, presenting an attractive entry point for investors.
Risks and Concern
1. Pandemics and Health Crises: As a pure-play health insurer, Star Health is exposed to surges in claims during health crises, which can impact profitability.
2. Rising Competition: With new players like ICICI Lombard and HDFC focusing on retail health insurance, Star Health must maintain its competitive edge, especially in rural markets.
3. Regulatory Risks: Evolving industry regulations could pose unforeseen challenges.
4. Data Security: The September 2024 cyberattack raised concerns about data safety, but proactive measures by management aim to mitigate future risks.
Growth Drivers for Star Health
1. Rising Retail Health Insurance Demand
The Indian government’s Insurance for All by 2047 initiative is set to boost awareness and adoption of health insurance. As retail health insurance outpaces overall industry growth, Star Health’s focus on rural and semi-urban markets ensures it remains a key beneficiary.
2. SME-Driven Group Insurance Expansion
With only **5–6% of SMEs** offering employee health insurance as of FY24, there is immense growth potential. Star Health aims to become a significant player in this space, leveraging its established networks and operational expertise.
Who Should Invest in Star Health?
Best for: Investors comfortable with moderate-to-high risk and looking for exposure to the fast-growing health insurance market.
Not ideal for: Conservative investors or those seeking stability, as health insurance can be volatile due to industry-specific risks.
Final Thoughts
Star Health’s robust growth trajectory, leadership position, and strategic focus on untapped markets make it a compelling investment. While risks exist, its attractive valuations and consistent profitability provide a solid margin of safety. For those looking to capitalize on India’s underpenetrated health insurance market, Star Health offers a unique opportunity.
Invest wisely, and remember: **health is wealth**, and so can be health insurance!
