Sony 1999 Annual Report Download - page 27

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25
page
Lifeplanners are experienced in
evaluating and analyzing a
customer’s present and future
requirements. By utilizing this
information in conjunction with
sophisticated computer software,
Lifeplanners offer a tailor-made
plan for each customer.
Lifeplanner branch offices, 26 regional sales offices, and 1,356 independent agencies. The
solvency margin ratio was 1,429%, far above the 200% level of the administrative guide-
lines for life insurers in Japan.
Anticipating more pressure on policy rates as competition intensifies, Sony Life plans
to implement a rigorous cost control program from a long-term perspective. To ensure the
ability to respond accurately to shifts in customers’ needs due to changes in the environ-
ment over time, Sony Life plans to conduct a radical review of business processes spanning
all aspects of operations.
Sony is applying for a license and is planning to commence a new business line of
selling individual automobile insurance in Japan in the fall of 1999.
LOOKING AHEAD TO MORE GROWTH
Consulting services offered by Lifeplanners will remain the mainstay of Sony Life’s sales
activities. To address customers’ needs, Sony Life is exploring ways to supplement these
activities with other channels. For example, direct sales to customers through its call
center started during the year. In June 1998, in a first for a Japanese life insurance com-
pany, Sony Life began offering via the internet an excess interest dividend educational
endowment, previously available only through the call center. Customers can use Sony
Life’s web site to structure their desired insurance policy and submit an application.
In April 1999, Sony Life initiated direct sales of mutual funds through its call center.
Adding these funds to items sold by Lifeplanners is now under consideration. Sony Life
hopes to be the first choice of customers by providing financial consultants who can offer
assistance in asset management and investments.