The MNB also instructed the insurer to prepare a financial plan, correcting deficiencies.

The MNB said KÖBEʼs insufficiently sound fee policy, risks related to its investment activities and the insurerʼs unfavorable reserves position justified the measure.

The sales suspension does not apply to KÖBEʼs other insurance contracts, the market watchdog said.

The restrictions on the management of KÖBEʼs assets was necessary to prevent an unjustified increase in investment risks, the MNB said. It explained that the insurer can invest only in specified instruments and must do so observing the maturity structure of its obligations.

The MNB took the step during a comprehensive investigation of KÖBE.

KÖBE had a 2.5% share of the general insurance market at the end of September, the MNB said. The insurer is not present on the life insurance market.