Overall sales were up 47.8% and there was a big increase in the trauma market following changes to its heart attack definitions. Frecklington says there has been a 66% uplift in trauma sales.

During the year 98% of claims, totaling $70 million, had been paid out.

The changes had also been good in getting support from advisers who hadn’t traditionally sold Asteron products.

Asteron hasn’t made a lot of product changes this year, rather managing director David Carter said the company would play to its strengths; claims, underwriting and business development manager support and tweak its products.

“No one has asked us for major changes in our product,” he says.

One of the main ones is in income protection where it has kept its two loss-of-income policies but decided to discontinue its agreed value and indemnity products.

Frecklington said Asteron was still rated number one in its core products and second in income protection, however he hinted that may change.

“Watch this space,” he said.

The Smartlife polices have ended as they “can’t lead the IFA market”, and have been replaced by new personal and business products.

With its level premium policies Asteron has extended the age limit from 65 to 70 and has level premium income protection cover.

Asteron has also revamped its mortgage insurance, now called Mortgage and Rent Cover, and has some changes to Kids Cover.

On the commission , Carter reiterated the view that Asteron would not lead in commission wars. He says there is too much debate around this issue.

An area of change is in the application process. You can read more about these changes next week.