South African insurtech Naked has secured about R700-million in its latest funding round as it continues to “redefine” insurance through technology-driven convenience, transparency and cost-effectiveness.

The Series B2 funding round was joined by global impact investor BlueOrchard and attracted increased support from existing backers Hollard, Yellowwoods, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Germany’s development finance institution DEG.

Launched in 2018 by actuaries Alex Thomson, Sumarié Greybe and Ernest North, Naked says it “reimagined insurance” through a fully digital platform that leverages AI and automation to offer “unparalleled convenience and transparency”.

Its app enables customers to obtain final insurance quotes in under 90 seconds and buy cover online, submit claims or pause accident coverage, all without the need for any phone calls.

As the only platform in South Africa selling 100% of its car, home and single-item insurance policies online without human intervention, Naked says it has demonstrated rapid scalability.

The company notes that its proprietary technology not only translates into convenience and cost savings to benefit the user, but enhances risk selection and pricing to ensure profitable unit economics.

Beyond its technological edge, Naked says its distinct business model, the ‘Naked Difference’, sets it apart.

Unlike traditional insurers, Naked takes a fixed percentage of premiums and donates any surplus from unclaimed funds to causes chosen by its customers.

The company says this structure eliminates conflicts of interest in claims processing, fostering trust by ensuring valid claims are handled fairly and promptly.

“This has proven to be critical in establishing Naked’s brand as a modern, purpose-driven alternative in an industry often perceived as rigid and transactional,” says Naked.

The insurer explains that the new funding will fuel its growth by deepening its investment in automation and AI, product and market expansion and enhancing advertising to attract and grow its customer base.

Additionally, the funds will be used to meet the regulatory capital requirements tied to the rapid growth and evolution of Naked’s business.

“This investment marks an exciting milestone as we continue to define a new category of insurance. It’s a strong vote of confidence from both our existing shareholders and our new investor, BlueOrchard. Their support validates the success of our business model and highlights the significant progress we’ve made in making insurance more accessible and convenient,” says Thomson.

“Building off the base of a loyal community and unique technology platform, we are positioned for strong growth in the years ahead. We’re deeply grateful to South African consumers for embracing this new generation of insurance and to our investors for their trust in our vision,” he adds.

Naked says BlueOrchard's investment aligns with its goal of leveraging digital innovation to enhance financial inclusion.

“Naked’s focus on using technology to expand access to insurance fits perfectly with our InsuResilience Investment Fund strategy. This funding will help Naked broaden its reach and develop new products that strengthen the financial resilience of its customers,” says BlueOrchard private equity investment director for Africa Richard Hardy.