Wink, Inc. Releases Fourth Quarter, 2016 Indexed Life Sales Results
{February 28th, 2017} by Press Release
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE Another Record-Setting Year for Indexed Life Sales! Wink, Inc. Releases Fourth Quarter, 2016 Indexed Life Sales Results Pleasant Hill, Iowa. February 28, 2017– Forty-eight indexed life insurance carriers participated in the 78th edition of Wink’s Sales & Market Report. Fourth quarter indexed universal life (IUL) sales […]
Millennials Cast A Skeptical Eye On Fees
{February 28th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Millennial investors often take the heat for not putting enough money aside for retirement. But new research has found these young investors don’t get nearly enough credit for taking on advisors over fees. And who can blame millennial investors for casting a cold, skeptical eye on advisor fees? Millennials have matured in an age of […]
OMB Pushback Endangers DOL Fiduciary Rule Delay
{February 28th, 2017} by John Hilton
The Office of Management and Budget found the controversial Department of Labor fiduciary rule to be “economically significant” in a review completed Monday, a finding that puts a rule delay in doubt. The OMB reviewed a DOL request to delay the fiduciary rule. The “economically significant” finding is a win for pro-rule consumer groups, sources […]
Retirement anxiety is gripping America
{February 28th, 2017} by Suzanne Woolley
(Bloomberg) — A few weeks after the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives moved to kill rules allowing states to create portable retirement savings accounts, a new survey found that 75 percent of Americans support just such an option. The response was a common refrain in a report that echoed the growing dread of living out one’s golden years […]
ALittleHelp.com, a Free Community Funding Platform for Memorial Funds Launches
{February 28th, 2017} by Business Wire
FREDERICK, Md.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– In an effort to disrupt the crowdfunding space for social good, U.S. insurance group Legal & General America today launched ALittleHelp.com. Unlike other crowdfunding sites, ALittleHelp.com will never keep any portion of contributions and is focused exclusively on memorial funds, designed to help families through the financial struggles that often arise after […]
Irrevocable trusts remain powerful in estate planning
{February 28th, 2017} by Brett W. Berg
The irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) is a fundamental, but complex, estate planning tool. Generally, they are used to minimize estate taxes for more affluent clients with estates valued above the tax exemption limit of $5.49 million for singles and $10.98 million for married couples. The ILIT can be structured to serve several purposes including: […]
2016 earnings: Mostly positive, but big losses for 2 titans
{February 28th, 2017} by Warren S. Hersch
Despite a challenging interest rate and regulatory environment, many life insurers closed out 2016 with a tidy profit. The results attest to sustained consumer and business demand for their core protections. The gains also reflect a migration among insurers to solutions that offer greater earnings potential — income that has for some carriers more than […]
IRI Announces 2017 Public Policy Priorities to Advance Retirement Security
{February 28th, 2017} by IRI
IRI Outlines Public Policy Priorities to Advance Retirement Security Agenda Built on Principle of Protecting and Expanding Access for Retirement Savers WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) today released its 2017 Retirement Security Blueprint. The Blueprint is built upon common sense, bipartisan policies designed to help Americans achieve a secure and dignified retirement. […]
Fourth Quarter 2016 Indexed Life Sales
{February 28th, 2017} by Sheryl J. Moore
Indexed Life Indexed Life sales for the fourth quarter of 2016 were $534 million, compared with sales of $541 million for the fourth quarter of 2015. Fourth quarter indexed life sales were up 18% when compared with the previous quarter, and down over 1% as compared to the same period last year. Total 4Q2016 indexed […]
OMB Concludes Review of Fiduciary Rule Delay Request
{February 28th, 2017} by Tara Jeffries
The Office of Management and Budget this week concluded its review of the Trump administration’s proposed delay of the Obama-era fiduciary rule by marking it “economically significant,” a move that keeps the rule in limbo but will likely have little impact on financial firms preparing for the initially scheduled April 10 implementation date. Still, the administration […]
Delay of DOL fiduciary rule faces new challenges
{February 28th, 2017} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
Delaying the implementation date of the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule became a more challenging proposition Tuesday. Click HERE to read more about Office of Management and Budget designates the delay ‘economically significant,’ making it more difficult for DOL to justify stall via InvestmentNews; registration required
4 Annuity Benefits You Should Know About
{February 28th, 2017} by Maurie Backman
If you’re looking for a way to generate income in retirement, you may be considering purchasing an annuity. An annuity is a contract between you and an insurance company. In exchange for a sum of money, your annuity provider promises you a certain amount of income over a preset period of time. While annuities have […]
OMB concludes review of measure delaying DOL fiduciary rule
{February 28th, 2017} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
The Office of Management and Budget concluded its review of a rule that would delay the implementation of the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule. Click HERE to read more via InvestmentNews; registration required
SEC Issues Guidance for Robo-Advisors, Investors
{February 28th, 2017} by Danielle Andrus
The Securities and Exchange Commission issued guidance on Thursday for advisory firms that offer automated advice platforms to help them meet disclosure, suitability and compliance obligations under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy also released an Investor Bulletin outlining for consumers typical services offered by robo-advisors. The […]
As The Baby Boomers Retire, Many Don’t Get Financial Advice
{February 28th, 2017} by Christopher Robbins
Although many people retire without financial advice, leaving the workforce is still associated with higher levels of financial confidence and satisfaction. In “Retirement Transitions in Four Countries,” a recent report by Valley Forge, Pa.-based Vanguard, one-in-three pre-retirees in the U.S., Canada, the UK and Australia were preparing to leave the workforce with no access to […]
Merrill could pivot on fiduciary pledge
{February 28th, 2017} by Andrew Welsch
Merrill Lynch may consider delaying or reversing some previously announced policies meant to comply with the fiduciary rule, including a pledge to cease offering commission-based retirement accounts. Andy Sieg, head of Merrill Lynch, says his firm has been working to deliver a best interest standard of care for clients. But he says that “operational changes” […]
DOL rule slows down wirehouse recruiting and crimps bonuses
{February 28th, 2017} by Bloomberg News
After months of secretive planning, seven teams of financial advisers had new business cards and client lists in hand, poised to dump their employers and join Morgan Stanley with more than $500 million of assets in tow. Click HERE to view the full story via InvestmentNews; registration required
OMB Reviewing Request to Delay Fiduciary Rule Deadline
{February 28th, 2017} by Frank Klimko,
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Office of Management and Budget is reviewing an interim rule that would delay the implementation deadline of the new fiduciary mandates set to be imposed by the U.S. Department of Labor beginning on April 10. The OMB received a request for the delay on Feb. 9, but has yet to publish […]
Acquisition Costs, Investment Yields Drag Down MassMutual’s 2016 Net Income 87%
{February 28th, 2017} by Marie Suszynski
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.’s net income fell 87% in 2016 as a result of costs related to its acquisition of MetLife’s advisor force and lower investment yields. Full-year net income declined to $70 million. Premium income fell 3% to $21.3 billion. Total revenue for year was flat at $29.6 billion. MassMutual’s […]
Annuities – You can hate them or love them, but please understand the facts about them first.
{February 28th, 2017} by Sheryl J. Moore, Bill Borton- Contributor
The greatest reason annuities are misunderstood by the public is the media’s perpetual distribution of inaccurate information. Misinformation about fees, commissions and surrender charges is rampant, even in respected publications. So, before you decide to buy, or walk away, read on for the facts. Annuities are a type of life insurance product. – Life insurance […]
Annuities: Preparing clients to retire at (almost) any age: OPINION
{February 28th, 2017} by Jeffrey Phillips
The new Department of Labor Fiduciary Rule is scheduled to be phased in soon. This ruling expands the “investment advice fiduciary” standard definition while still demanding that advisors always act in the best interests of their clients. As part of that commitment, it’s important for investment advisory industry professionals to recognize that the needs of […]
Heritage Introduces Framework for Dodd-Frank Replacement
{February 28th, 2017} by Tara Jeffries
As Republicans prepare to dismantle the 2010 Dodd-Frank law, the Heritage Foundation is ready to weigh in with a blueprint for financial regulation that calls for transferring the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s authorities to the Federal Trade Commission, according to a document reviewed by Morning Consult. The framework, which sets conservative goalposts for the Trump administration and GOP lawmakers, […]
Consedine: NAIC Exploring SIFI Designations, Seeks Covered Agreement Talks With EU
{February 27th, 2017} by Thomas Harman
WASHINGTON – The National Association of Insurance Commissioners is still shaping its opinion on the Financial Stability Oversight Council’s ability to designate nonbanking firms as systemically important financial institutions, NAIC’s Executive Director Michael Consedine said. The NAIC debate continues because of the interconnections between SIFI designations and the functions and roles of both FSOC and […]
Industry plaintiffs appeal Dallas court’s decision to uphold DOL fiduciary rule
{February 27th, 2017} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
Financial industry trade groups seeking to stop the DOL fiduciary rule are appealing a recent decision by a Dallas federal judge to uphold the measure. Click HERE to view the full story via InvestmentNews; subscription may be required
Why the advisory world is trending ‘bizarro’: OPINION
{February 27th, 2017} by Bob Veres
Unless you happened to be an avid reader of Superman comic books during the 1960s, you probably don’t know what the “bizarro world” is. The best description I can give is that it’s a place where everything is sort of backwards. Superman was a disheveled hobo who engaged in criminal behavior like stealing valuable lumps […]
Unstoppable: The Momentum of a Shifting Insurance Industry
{February 27th, 2017} by Denise Garth
February 28, 2017 — In March 2016, the first Future Trends: A Seismic Shift Underway report was published, highlighting that a powerful, disruptive seismic shift in the insurance industry was underway due to the converging “tectonic plates” of people, technology, and market boundary changes. The shift was realigning fundamental elements of business that would require […]
Connect the Wink way! Social Media resources
{February 27th, 2017} by Wink's RockStars
Social media affects everything we do. As valued Wink subscribers, we invite you to utilize our social resources to share your breaking news and engage in adept “employerism” by engaging a vast talent pool of insurance industry professionals. Please send the link to your news release and career openings to support@winkintel.com. We’ll share throughout our social networks. […]
DOL Moves to Delay Fiduciary Rule
{February 27th, 2017} by ThinkAdvisor
After a third federal court ruling in early February upheld the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule, Labor’s Acting Secretary Edward Hugler filed in short order with the Office of Management and Budget to delay the rule’s April 10 compliance date. Hugler’s filing came only days after President Donald Trump directed DOL on Feb. 3 to […]
Plaintiffs Appeal Texas Decision on DOL Rule
{February 27th, 2017} by John Hilton
A group of plaintiffs, led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, are appealing a Texas decision upholding the Department of Labor fiduciary rule. Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn awarded a summary judgment to the DOL on Feb. 8, the third court to side [with] the government on the controversial rule. “We remain confident in the merits and […]
Citi says U.S. regulators are investigating its hiring practices
{February 24th, 2017} by Subrat Patnaik
Citigroup Inc (C.N) on Friday said that U.S. government and regulatory agencies are investigating the bank’s hiring practices. U.S. agencies, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, are looking into whether or not the bank hired candidates “referred by or related to foreign government officials” over other candidates, the filing said. “Citigroup is cooperating with […]
OMB Ponders Legal Implications of DOL Rule Delay: Sources
{February 24th, 2017} by John Hilton
The Office of Management and Budget is taking a more measured approach to reviewing the Department of Labor’s request for a delay of its controversial fiduciary rule. The delay was expected to be finalized this week by OMB, but several sources said the office is concerned that pro-rule groups will sue if the rule delay is […]
Debunking Dave Ramsey’s column advice is just too easy
{February 24th, 2017} by Michael Markey
When writing this column, I enjoy using Dave Ramsey’s written opinions far more than what he says on the radio. Unlike live radio, in his column, Dave Says, Ramsey has the chance to think about what he wants to say. He can review each word, sentence and paragraph to make sure the message given is […]
Buffer Annuities: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly
{February 24th, 2017} by ThinkAdvisor
A new type of annuity product that offers a cross between an indexed annuity and a variable annuity has begun gaining attention in the investment world—and not all of this attention has been positive. While the buffer annuity has strongly appealed to investors in a post-recession market who wish to participate in the equity markets […]
LPL to lay off 112 nationwide in reorganization
{February 24th, 2017} by Ann Marsh
LPL Financial plans to lay off 112 employees nationwide in April, including 97 who work out of its San Diego headquarters, in a move to both reduce costs and position the country’s largest independent broker-dealer for greater expansion. In all, LPL is relocating 157 positions from offices around the country to its expanded offices in […]
Commission rates on fixed annuities expected to settle around 3% under the fiduciary rule
{February 24th, 2017} by Margarida Correia
Banks and credit unions are likely to set commission rates on fixed-rate annuities in the neighborhood of 3% once the fiduciary rule kicks in, according to a new report from Kehrer Bielan & Consulting. The report surveyed 18 bank and third-party broker dealers to ascertain how financial institutions plan to adjust their product and pricing […]
Millennial insurance jobs are consistently underestimated despite career potential
{February 24th, 2017} by H. Cutner
This generation is only just starting to tap into an industry that is open for starting and growing opportunities. Millennial insurance jobs are proving to be among the employment opportunities that have the greatest potential for that generation. They are taking positions from claims adjusters to data scientists and underwriters in which there are massive […]
Heading south: Applications for life insurance policies
{February 23rd, 2017} by Warren S. Hersch
Since the start of 2016, applications for individually underwritten life insurance policies have steadily dipped. And, according to new research, the downward trajectory continues. A new MIB Life Index shows that applications edged down 2.6 percent between December 2016 and January 17, 2017. Except for a marginal uptick in between November and December (0.3 percent), […]
Protective to Host Update Meeting
{February 23rd, 2017} by Protective Life
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Protective Life Corporation (“Protective”), a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. (TSE:8750, “Dai-ichi”), will host a Company Update Meeting on March 14th, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Central Time regarding Protective’s 2016 financial results and current business strategy. The event will be presented by the Company’s senior management […]
Prudential may press Wells Fargo as account fallout spreads
{February 23rd, 2017} by KATHERINE CHIGLINSKY, LAURA J. KELLER
(Bloomberg) — Prudential Financial Inc., facing regulatory scrutiny and a lawsuit over a sales relationship with Wells Fargo & Co., said it may press its partner to cover costs after halting the offering — another sign the bank has yet to contain the full fallout of its bogus-account scandal. Prudential “has provided notice to Wells Fargo that it […]
Retirement: life’s most expensive purchase
{February 23rd, 2017} by Emily Zulz
A team at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners is working on an update of the standard Life Insurance Buyer’s Guide. The NAIC’s Life Insurance Buyer’s Guide Working Group held one conference call meeting on the topic earlier this month and scheduled a second conference call meeting for Feb. 7. The group has posted […]
Test your planning acronym expertise
{February 22nd, 2017} by Maddy Perkins
So many financial planning acronyms, so little time. We’ve assembled another series to study up on — on topics from life insurance and estate planning to general investing terms. Click through the slideshow to brush up on acronyms you may not know (or may have forgotten). Click HERE to test yourself by considering category and […]
Common traits of financial fraud victims
{February 22nd, 2017} by Daniel Williams
I am an older male and married. I’m also a war veteran who values wealth accumulation as a significant measure of success in life. Although I’m ideologically conservative, I’m willing to take risks and am open to unsolicited telephone and email sales pitches. No, this is not a profile for an online dating site for […]
Kansas judge again upholds DOL fiduciary rule
{February 22nd, 2017} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
Judge Daniel D. Crabtree granted summary judgment to DOL, marking the measure’s fourth court victory since November. A Kansas federal judge upheld the Labor Department fiduciary rule on Friday, giving the measure its fourth court victory since November. Click HERE to view the full story via InvestmentNews; subscription may be required
Is The SEC Ready To Loosen ‘Accredited Investor’ Definition?
{February 22nd, 2017} by Ted Knutson
It is “possible leaning to probable” that the SEC under President Trump will ease the accredited investor definition and make it possible for more people to invest in private companies, hedge funds and venture capital, an agency consultant said Wednesday. On a related issue, she said the Securities and Exchange Commission could very likely ease […]
Americans Think Beyond Finances To Prepare for Retirement
{February 22nd, 2017} by Christopher Robbins
Americans may be more ready for retirement than we think, according to a new survey. A report released on Wednesday by Merrill Lynch and generational research firm Age Wave finds that people are utilizing a variety of strategies—including working part-time in retirement and cutting back on certain costs—to make it through their golden years. This […]
Advocates push to delay DOL fiduciary rule delay; industry waits for likely stall
{February 22nd, 2017} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
While advocates for the Labor Department fiduciary-duty rule make a last-ditch effort to put off its likely delay, financial industry groups seem to be confident that the Trump administration will stall the measure. Click HERE to view the full story via InvestmentNews; registration required
2016 Fixed Annuity Sales Break Record
{February 22nd, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Fixed annuity sales soared 14 percent to a record $117.4 billion in 2016 as annuitants turned in billions of dollars’ worth of contracts following the expiration of a seven-year surrender period, LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute reported Tuesday. Fixed-rate deferred annuity sales led the way with sales of $38.7 billion, an increase of 25 percent compared […]
IMOs Defend FIA Product Flexibility to Regulators
{February 21st, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Retaining the ability to change terms embedded in fixed indexed annuity contracts is critical to insurance companies to adjust to market changes, said a top executive of a major FIA seller. Insurers and insurance marketing organizations (IMOs) have responded to regulators’ questions about why companies can change the terms of FIA contracts after the contracts have been issued. The comments […]
Planning for a fiduciary future
{February 21st, 2017} by Chelsea Emery
The fiduciary rule has been the biggest catalyst for industry change in years. An enormous amount of energy, time and money has been expended fighting for and against it. Still more effort has gone into complying with the regulation. Now that the president is moving to undo it, the question naturally arises: Does that make […]
Regulators tackle life buyer guide update
{February 21st, 2017} by Allison Bell
A team at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners is working on an update of the standard Life Insurance Buyer’s Guide. The NAIC’s Life Insurance Buyer’s Guide Working Group held one conference call meeting on the topic earlier this month and scheduled a second conference call meeting for Feb. 7. The group has posted an […]
Some Merrill Lynch advisers upset with move away from commissions
{February 21st, 2017} by Greg Iacurci
Advisers say commissions serve certain clients better and investors who prefer them are pushing back Some advisers at Merrill Lynch are not happy with the wirehouse’s newly minted policy of embracing advisory over commission relationships in retirement accounts. Click HERE to view the full story via InvestmentNews; subscription required
Trump nominates Acosta as Labor secretary
{February 21st, 2017} by Melanie Waddell
President Donald Trump wasted little time in naming R. Alexander Acosta on Thursday as his new Labor secretary nominee to replace Andrew Puzder, who withdrew from the nomination on Wednesday. Acosta, the only son of Cuban immigrants, is law dean at the public Florida International University in Miami as well as a veteran Republican administrator, serving as assistant attorney general […]
Fixed annuity sales hit record $117.4 billion in 2016
{February 21st, 2017} by LIMRA
In 2016, total fixed annuity sales hit a record-breaking $117.4 billion, 14 percent higher than 2015 levels and nearly $7 billion higher than 2009 (when sales were last at their highest), according to LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute’s Fourth Quarter U.S. Annuity Sales survey. LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute’s fourth quarter U.S. Individual Annuities Sales Survey represents data from 96 […]
American National Insurance Company Introduces a new One-Year Indexed Strategy for ANICO Strategy Indexed Annuity PLUS
{February 21st, 2017} by GlobeNewswire
GALVESTON, Texas, Feb. 21, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American National Insurance Company (American National) announces the addition of a new indexed strategy for ANICO Strategy Indexed Annuity PLUS (ASIA PLUS), available immediately. The One-Year Point to Point, 50% Participation Strategy with a 0% Floor, along with other interest crediting strategies, provides clients with the opportunity […]
Women are household CFOs, but barriers remain at work
{February 21st, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Let’s talk man to man. The old approach of connecting with client couples might be outdated. No, it is outdated. Click HERE to view the full story via LifeHealthPro; free registration
Here Come the Fee-Based Indexed Annuities
{February 21st, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
With less than two months to go before new fiduciary standards take effect, insurers have lined up new fee-based fixed indexed annuities for independent marketing organizations and their advisors to sell. Insurance companies say they want to be prepared for the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule, which is designed to steer distributors away from commission-based […]
Industry Volunteers Promote Insurance Careers for Millennials
{February 21st, 2017} by Renée Kiriluk-Hill
MALVERN, Pa. – Insurance careers are stable, rewarding and limitless — a rewarding trifecta — according to an all-volunteer group working to promote the Insurance Careers Movement. The group says 1,600 people from 10 countries tuned in for a live “CEO town hall for young professionals” webinar in December. It has designated February “Insurance Careers […]
DOL rule, Dodd-Frank up in the air: What now for advisors?
{February 21st, 2017} by Warren S. Hersch
President Trump’s flurry of executive actions since taking office is upending the established order in the nation’s capital. Financial services professionals have a huge stake in the outcome for two of them. Those executive orders — one calling for an “updated economic legal analysis” of the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule, the other detailing “core principles” […]
Allianz Life Reports Strong 2016 Financial Results
{February 21st, 2017} by Allianz
February 17, 2017 Operating Profit Up 14 Percent, Surpassing $1 Billion Mark MINNEAPOLIS – February 17, 2017 – Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life®) today announced its 2016 financial results, reporting an operating profit of $1.06 billion, up 14 percent from 2015. In surpassing the $1 billion mark for the first time […]
Allianz: FIAs to Remain a Growth Engine
{February 21st, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Allianz will continue to focus on fixed indexed annuity sales in the U.S. in the face of declining variable annuity sales, a top executive said Friday. With U.S. variable annuity sales flat, “that means our focus to grow the business is clearly the fixed indexed annuity business,” said Dieter Wemmer, chief financial officer of the global […]
DOL Asks for Stay of Thrivent’s Challenge to Fiduciary Rule
{February 21st, 2017} by Carmen Castro-Pagan
The Labor Department Feb. 15 asked a federal judge in Minnesota to stay Thrivent Financial for Lutherans’ challenge to the fiduciary rule ( Thrivent Financial for Lutherans v. Hugler , D. Minn., No. 0:16-cv-03289, letter to request stay 2/15/17 ). The DOL request comes one week after a federal judge in Texas denied a similar […]
New Labor Secretary Nominee Brings Legal Mind to Fiduciary Debate
{February 18th, 2017} by John Hilton
Alexander Acosta, nominated Thursday to lead the Department of Labor, drew praise today as a thoughtful, experienced candidate likely to express mainstream conservative views on regulations. In other words, the perfect labor secretary to provide swift clarity to the financial services industry on the DOL fiduciary rule. “There isn’t much to indicate where he will […]
Corry Capital’s General Manager: State Regulators Help Boost Life Settlements
{February 18th, 2017} by Meg Green
NEW YORK – William Corry, general partner, Corry Capital, said several larger U.S. states have been active in educating consumers and agents about opportunities to sell life policies into the secondary market. Corry spoke with A.M. BestTV at the Life Insurance Settlement Association’s annual Institutional Investor Conference in New York. View the video version of […]
VA Product Lines See A Wave Of Changes
{February 17th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
The past several months have seen a flurry of developments, enhancements, and changes to variable annuity product lines. Before delving into product details, it’s helpful to keep in mind the broader context in which the changes are being made. Interest rates are on the rise again after a long period of decline. The equity markets […]
Insurers uncertain about impact of Trump directive on fiduciary rule
{February 17th, 2017} by Antonita Madonna
NEW YORK (Thomson Reuters Regulatory Intelligence) – U.S. President Donald Trump’s memorandum to the Department of Labor to review its “fiduciary rule” without ordering an explicit delay to its compliance deadline of April 10, has fueled uncertainty over its impact on an insurance industry that has already begun to prepare for compliance with the regulation […]
DOL fiduciary rule developments give both sides something to cheer
{February 17th, 2017} by Blaine F. Aikin
Opponents are almost certain to get a six-month delay in the rule’s implementation date, but proponents can take solace in the fact that rescinding or revising the rule won’t be easy. Both opponents and proponents of the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule have something to cheer following February’s fast-breaking developments. Opponents will almost certainly get […]
Justice Department seeks stay in Thrivent lawsuit against DOL fiduciary rule
{February 17th, 2017} by Greg Iacurci
Attorneys are seeking a stay pending the results of a rule review requested by the president. The Department of Justice has requested a stay in the lawsuit against the Labor Department’s fiduciary rule brought by Thrivent Financial, just one week after another court denied the department’s request for a stay against the rule in a […]
Sapiens Makes Big North America Move with StoneRiver Acquisition
{February 17th, 2017} by Anthony R. O'Donnell
Counting all that StoneRiver brings in systems, industry credibility, and client base, the vendor believes it now has what it needs to face the challenges of succeeding in the North American insurance systems market. If Sapiens’ mid-2016 acquisition of Maximum Processing was a foothold in the North American insurance systems market, the vendor’s announcement yesterday […]
Entering a Very Different Decade
{February 16th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
What a difference a decade makes. At the beginning of 2007, after a healthy climb, the yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note stood at 4.68 percent. For insurers that held the super safe 10-year T-note investment until maturity, the investment would have yielded a hypothetical $46,800 annually for every $1 million invested in the […]
Awaiting new Labor secretary, staff takes on larger role in fiduciary rule’s fate
{February 16th, 2017} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
Putting together a new cost-benefit analysis could be tricky for DOL staff, who spent the last six years working on a regulation that already was assessed and has been upheld by three court decisions so far. In Washington, it is often said that personnel is policy. When it comes the Labor Department’s fiduciary rule, the […]
Puzder Withdraws From Labor Secretary Nomination
{February 15th, 2017} by ThinkAdvisor
Facing mounting criticism and GOP opposition, Andrew Puzder, President Donald Trump’s nominee to head the Labor Department, has withdrawn from consideration. Puzder’s personal blog, which touted his labor-employment record, and his goals, was taken down Wednesday afternoon and replaced with this statement: “After careful consideration and discussions with my family, I am withdrawing my nomination […]
Bankers Life Drawn to Agents With Broader Outlook
{February 15th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Bankers Life will remain focused on developing agents who have some experience but who harbor ambitions of broadening their horizons by becoming financial advisors, a company executive said. The insight could serve as a guide to other agents looking to remain and eventually thrive in a profession known for high turnover in the early years. […]
Now you can buy annuities online, like clothes and cars — and with the same caveats
{February 15th, 2017} by Erin Arvedlund
There’s a new way to buy annuities — online. Stan Haithcock, a longtime industry gadfly, has founded one of a growing number of annuity-centric websites where you can get quotes. No more free dinners, no more hours-long sales pitches. Most Americans are already familiar with annuities: We receive one when we retire, called Social Security. […]
Who Likes Immediate Annuities?
{February 15th, 2017} by The Employee Benefit Research Institute
WASHINGTON, February 14, 2017 — Which groups of people prefer immediate annuities? A new analysis by the nonpartisan Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) finds that it’s those at the lowest and highest ends of the wealth spectrum. Why? bBecause those with inadequate assets might value a regular stream of income very highly and those with […]
Masterpiece Of Love
{February 14th, 2017} by Prudential
Prudential creates a compelling testament to love, life and loss In observance of Valentine’s Day, Prudential Financial has combined love and loss to launch an artful advertising campaign to support their Individual Life Insurance (ILI) business. The “Masterpiece of Love” campaign is a series of four online short films (about 20 minutes each) detailing stories […]
DOL files to delay fiduciary rule
{February 14th, 2017} by Melanie Waddell
As expected, the Department of Labor filed a notice Thursday with the Office of Management and Budget to delay implementation of its fiduciary rule via a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. OMB reviews generally take from 10 to 14 days and then once OMB approves the proposal, Labor will send the notice to the Federal Register for publication […]
Judge rules against fiduciary foes, puts onus back on Trump
{February 14th, 2017} by Andrew Welsch, Tobias Salinger
A federal judge denied a lawsuit brought by industry trade groups seeking to overturn the fiduciary rule, putting the onus on the Trump administration to make any changes to the regulation. The decision came just hours after the Department of Labor asked the judge to hold off on a ruling so that it could comply […]
8 Things Advisors Can Learn From Johnny Depp
{February 14th, 2017} by John Hilton
If you weren’t paying attention, you’d think the Johnny Depp financial crisis was a plot right out of a Hollywood movie. A multi-millionaire actor – no, it’s not Nicholas Cage – blows through $2 million dollars a month, and finds himself in danger of being buried in unsustainable debt, due primarily to bad advice the […]
Advisors Have Needs, Too
{February 14th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Advisors need and want support when it comes to building investment and income portfolios for their clients, but what sort of support exactly? In their own words, full-service advisors, independent advisors and registered investment advisors gave industry consultant Howard Schneider a clue. Schneider published those results in his report titled “Trends in How Advisors Construct […]
Life insurance challenges posed by marijuana and e-cigarettes
{February 14th, 2017} by Randy L. Zipse
An increasingly discussed area in life insurance circles is the manner in which marijuana and e-cigarettes are addressed by life insurance carriers. There are ramifications for both relative to medical underwriting, and there are financial underwriting issues surrounding marijuana. E-cigarettes are plastic and metal devices that heat a liquid nicotine solution in a disposable cartridge […]
5 opportunities to turn Valentine’s Day into Life Insurance Day
{February 14th, 2017} by Daniel Williams
Buying life insurance is showing love,” says Amanda Korth, a registered representative with Transamerica Financial Advisors, Inc. “But it’s also showing selfless love.” Korth and I are talking about the importance of life insurance, and the reasons why Valentine’s Day is a perfect time for advisors to discuss the topic with their clients and for […]
Greenberg settles suit over AIG deals N.Y. calls fraudulent
{February 14th, 2017} by CHRIS DOLMETSCH, SONALI BASAK
(Bloomberg) — Ex-American International Group Inc. Chief Executive Officer Maurice “Hank” Greenberg admitted to taking part in two deals to make the insurer’s financial condition look better than it was as part of a $9.9 million settlement with New York that has dragged out for almost a dozen years, the state’s top lawyer said. The settlement, announced […]
FIA Distribution Could Turn into ‘Monopoly’
{February 14th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
An exemption allowing only the largest independent marketing organizations to sell fixed indexed annuities under the fiduciary rule threatens to create a “monopoly” of distributors. That was the word from an insurance company executive. The fiduciary rule is “almost turning the FIA business into a monopoly because there will be fewer and fewer IMOs, if […]
More Americans Buying Life Insurance Directly From Insurers
{February 14th, 2017} by LIMRA
WINDSOR, Conn., Feb. 13, 2017–A LIMRA study, U.S. Life Insurance Trends 2016, indicates more consumers than ever before are saying they have purchased individual life insurance policies directly rather than from a financial professional. The study finds that the direct purchasing of individual life insurance has increased by more than 25 percent in each of […]
Fintechs feature DOL fiduciary tools at T3
{February 14th, 2017} by Liz Skinner
Many new tools that fintech firms are unveiling as the T3 conference opens this week are aimed at helping financial advisers meet requirements of the Labor Department’s fiduciary rule, which was due to take effect in less than two months but is now in limbo as President Donald J. Trump delayed implementation by six months. […]
Lincoln Financial Group Broadens Its Suite of Guaranteed Lifetime Income Solutions with New Fee-Based Options
{February 14th, 2017} by Lincoln Financial Group
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Lincoln Financial Group (LNC) announced the introduction of new fee-based variable and fixed indexed annuities, broadening its suite of lifetime income solutions. Designed to help advisors solve for their clients’ retirement income needs, these products provide savers with a known source of income through a competitive cost option with a broad selection […]
Voya Financial Expands its Suite of Retirement Income Solutions with New Voya Journey Index Annuity
{February 14th, 2017} by Jamie Johnson
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2017 WINDSOR, Conn., Feb. 13, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Voya Financial, Inc. (NYSE: VOYA), announced today it has expanded its suite of fixed index annuity products by introducing the new Voya Journey Index Annuity. Its innovative design provides individuals with a simple “two stage” interest-crediting approach that offers full growth potential, while providing […]
Sen. Elizabeth Warren presses Andrew Puzder on DOL fiduciary rule
{February 14th, 2017} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
Gives Trump’s nominee for secretary of Labor questions on how he’ll evaluate the retirement advice regulation Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is pressing Andrew Puzder, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee for labor secretary, on what he intends to proceed in reassessing a major investment-advice rule. Click HERE to view the full story via InvestmentNews; registration required
Voices The fiduciary rule’s real shortcoming that Trump should fix: Opinion
{February 13th, 2017} by Barry Ritholtz
(Bloomberg View) — President Trump’s has asked for 180-day review of the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule. It is, of course, reasonable to assume that this is the prelude to the new administration’s effort to kill the regulation. If there is an actual shortcoming to the rule, it is this: The fiduciary rule shouldn’t apply […]
They are on fire to read!
{February 13th, 2017} by Wink's RockStars
Last year, Sheryl J. Moore funded Mrs. Tully Lahmann’s DonorsChoose.org project on Wink’s behalf. Mrs. Tully Lahmann needed to obtain a graphic library of books that consisted of graphic novels, biographies, and graphic nonfiction books for her classroom. Graphic novels are a great way to entice students to love reading, while simultaneously building their reading […]
EMC reports fourth-quarter, annual earnings
{February 13th, 2017} by News Briefs
EMC Insurance Group Inc. today reported net income of $21.3 million, or $1.01 per share, for the fourth quarter, compared with $9.9 million, or 48 cents per share, for the same period a year ago. For the year ended Dec. 31, EMC reported net income of $46.2 million, or $2.20 per share, compared with $50.2 […]
FBL reports $26.9 million in fourth-quarter earnings
{February 13th, 2017} by News Briefs
FBL Financial Group Inc. on Thursday reported net income for the fourth quarter of $26.9 million, or $1.07 per diluted common share, compared with $30.9 million, or $1.23 per share, for the fourth quarter of 2015. Operating income, which excludes the impact of realized gains and losses on investments and the change in net unrealized […]
Brokers International brings 100-plus jobs to Greater Des Moines
{February 13th, 2017} by News Briefs
Brokers International has moved from Panora to renovated office space in Urbandale, a transition that has brought more than 100 new jobs to Greater Des Moines, according to a release. The retirement and investment marketing firm unveiled its new headquarters today at 4135 N.W. Urbandale Drive in an office park that recently went through a […]
DeClerck named to 10,000 Small Businesses program
{February 13th, 2017} by Conference Event Management
Michelle DeClerck, owner of Conference Event Management in West Des Moines, has been selected as a participant in 10,000 Small Businesses, an entrepreneurial program for small business owners developed by Goldman Sachs. Each year Goldman Sachs selects 150 small business owners from around the country to attend the entrepreneurial program at Babson College in Wellesley, […]
‘Do not fear the fee’: Why advisers should discuss costs with clients
{February 10th, 2017} by Tobias Salinger
The cost of planning matters less to clients than their advisers’ willingness to discuss the touchy subject with them, according to an IMCA training session. “Do not fear the fee, ladies and gentlemen. Talk about it, not just once, talk about it often. They expect it and they want it,” John Hancock Investments National Sales […]
Fiduciary rule is ‘difficult to kill’
{February 10th, 2017} by Andrew Welsch
The fiduciary rule is proving to be one tough survivor — for now. So far, three lawsuits seeking to undo the rule have been rejected. Those come after years of lobbying by some of the industry’s largest trade groups as well as fierce opposition from Republicans in Congress. “The Obama administration did some extremely smart […]
3 ways the big life app checker bureau could grow
{February 10th, 2017} by Allison Bell
The head of an insurance industry support organization founded in 1902 is still looking for ways to grow. Lee Oliphant, president of MIB Group Inc., talked about his idea for expanding the Braintree, Massachusetts-based risk exposure organization’s horizons earlier this week in an interview. Insurers started MIB in an effort to share information they could use […]
UBS exploring fee-based annuities for advisers
{February 9th, 2017} by Greg Iacurci
UBS Wealth Management Americas is mulling the potential offer of fee-based annuities to its adviser force for use with clients, according to a company executive. Click HERE to read via InvestmentNews; registration required
American Equity Beats 4Q Profit Forecasts
{February 9th, 2017} by American Equity
WEST DEMOINES, Iowa (AP) _ American Equity Investment Life Holding Co. (AEL) on Wednesday reported fourth-quarter net income of $120.8 million. The West Demoines, Iowa-based company said it had net income of $1.35 per share. Earnings, adjusted for investment gains, came to 63 cents per share. The results exceeded Wall Street expectations. The average estimate […]
DOL Court Win on Fiduciary ‘Troublesome’ For Trump: Lawyer
{February 9th, 2017} by John Hilton
The Trump administration might have difficulty killing the Department of Labor fiduciary rule after a third federal judge upheld the rule Wednesday, one labor expert said. Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn granted a summary judgment to the DOL in an 81-page ruling released just hours after the agency asked for a stay until March 10. Plaintiffs […]
ACLI RESPONDS TO FEDERAL COURT RULING ON FIDUCIARY REGULATION
{February 9th, 2017} by ACLI
American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) Executive Vice President and General Counsel Gary Hughes issued the following statement in response to a federal court decision on the U.S. Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule: Washington, D.C., (February 8, 2017) – “The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) is disappointed with the decision from the U.S. […]
DOL wins fiduciary rule case in Texas
{February 9th, 2017} by Jamie Johnson
Texas federal trial Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn ruled in favor Wednesday of the Labor Department in the case brought by nine plaintiffs against Labor’s fiduciary rule. Lynn had promised a ruling by Friday. The nine plaintiffs, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association and the Financial Services Institute, sued the DOL […]
DoL asks judge for timeout in fiduciary lawsuit, cites Trump order
{February 8th, 2017} by Andrew Welsch
The Department of Labor has asked a federal judge to hold off on issuing a ruling in a pending lawsuit seeking to overturn the fiduciary rule, a move which could indicate the department is considering overturning its regulation. The department cited President Trump’s recent memo instructing it to review the regulation and possibly rescind it […]
No turning back the clock on fiduciary
{February 8th, 2017} by Andrew Welsch
Is it too late to overturn the fiduciary rule? That question might seem far-fetched in the wake of President Trump’s memorandum, instructing the Department of Labor to review the regulation once again with an eye toward killing it or aggressively scaling it back. But the environment has changed over the past year. Ameriprise spent tens […]
White House memo confuses Wall Street on fate of fiduciary rule
{February 7th, 2017} by Sarah N. Lynch and Elizabeth Dilts
Conflicting signs from the White House have left brokerage firms and lobbyists unsure whether a controversial rule governing retirement advice will ever be put in place, but they are taking no chances and complying anyway. President Donald Trump’s Friday memorandum ordered the Labor Department to review the so-called “fiduciary” rule, which requires brokers to put […]
Fidelity survey finds advisers still focusing on DOL rule implementation
{February 7th, 2017} by InvestmentNews
Despite possible postponement of the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule, 44% of advisers did not slow down their implementation and compliance plans in January, while another 19% were proceeding only slightly slower with their plans, according a poll of advisers conducted last month by Fidelity. Click HERE to view the full article via InvestmentNews; registration […]
Finance, insurance groups react to Trump’s executive orders
{February 7th, 2017} by ELANA ASHANTI JEFFERSON
Retirement advisors and insurance agents have long known that shifting political winds in the U.S. federal government would continue to affect their businesses and processes. Many in the finance industry supported Donald Trump for president expressly because they hoped for the type of decisive action that arrived Friday in the form of Presidential Executive Order […]
Kitces: Fiduciary rule not yet delayed after all
{February 7th, 2017} by Michael Kitces
Once President Trump won the election, it was widely believed it would be a matter of time before he issued an executive order to delay April’s rollout of the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule. Yet, the final version of the memorandum that the president signed on Friday did not match the originally circulated draft and […]
Fidelity & Guaranty Discussing Another Merger Extension With Anbang
{February 7th, 2017} by Marie Suszynski,
DES MOINES, Iowa – Fidelity & Guaranty Life is again looking to extend its $1.58 billion merger agreement with Anbang Insurance Group. F&GL’s net income more than doubled during its fiscal first quarter of 2017. Fidelity & Guaranty’s is in talks with Anbang to extend the termination date of the deal beyond Feb. 8, Chris […]
Allianz Life Launches New Retirement Foundation ADV Annuity
{February 7th, 2017} by Allianz
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life®) announced today that it has launched the new Retirement Foundation ADVSM Annuity, the first fee-based fixed index annuity (FIA) offered by Allianz Life. Retirement Foundation ADV features benefits such as protection of principal and credited interest from market downturns, tax deferral and the potential to […]
Fiduciary rule delay not a ‘slam dunk’
{February 7th, 2017} by Chelsea Emery
Even as President Trump pushes to loosen U.S. regulations, there is one he might find more difficult to roll back or abolish. The fiduciary rule, set to begin implementation on April 10, has little chance of being derailed, says Skip Schweiss, the managing director of TD Ameritrade Institutional’s Advisor Advocacy & Industry Affairs division. In […]
DOL Rule Delay Could Come Tuesday
{February 7th, 2017} by John Hilton
Despite the awkward rollout of President Donald J. Trump’s policy strategy for the Department of Labor fiduciary rule, officials say the president remains committed to killing the regulation. In fact, a 180-day delay could be announced by the DOL as soon as Tuesday, said Erin Sweeney of the Washington, DC-based law firm Miller & Chevalier. […]
Executive Sees IMOs Entering An Age Of Consolidation
{February 7th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
Independent marketing organizations (IMOs) are headed for an era of consolidation. This is happening as insurers look to form fewer but deeper relationships with distributors seeking more scale to access larger amounts of capital, the new CEO of a top IMO said last week. The first consolidations are expected among smaller IMOs. Click HERE to […]
Three life insurers report fourth-quarter profits
{February 7th, 2017} by Allison Bell
Three midsize life insurers seem to have taken a different approach to the derivatives market than MetLife Inc. did in the fourth quarter. Lincoln National Corp., Ameriprise Financial Inc. and Fidelity & Guaranty Life all reported positive net income for the quarter. Last week, MetLife posted a $2.1 billion net loss. The company blamed the loss on […]
Horace Mann CFO Dwayne Hallman Dies
{February 7th, 2017} by Renée Kiriluk-Hill
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Horace Mann Educators Corp. Chief Financial Officer Dwayne Hallman, 54, has died following a short hospitalization. The company said he had suffered a severe medical incident Jan. 29 and was on medical leave. It appointed Bret Conklin, controller and chief accounting officer, as acting chief financial officer. On Feb. 4, the company […]
Indexed Annuities Exemption Would Ease DOL Fiduciary Burden
{February 7th, 2017} by Professors Bloink and Byrnes
The Department of Labor (DOL) fiduciary rule, as it currently stands (see Details Emerge on Trump Order to ‘Review’ Fiduciary Rule), would sweep sellers of increasingly popular fixed indexed annuities under the definition of fiduciaries—requiring these sellers to take steps toward compliance in just a few short months (by April 10). This would create a […]
5 questions still lingering on Trump’s fiduciary order
{February 6th, 2017} by Andrew Welsch
President Trump’s hotly anticipated action on the fiduciary rule landed with a bang, but it wasn’t quite what some anticipated (or feared). Here’s a breakdown of what the president did, and what may happen next. What actually happened? Trump signed a memorandum on Friday that instructs the Department of Labor to begin a review of […]
Despite new review of DOL fiduciary rule, firms are sticking with higher standard of care
{February 6th, 2017} by Bruce Kelly
With the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule now shrouded in uncertainty, large brokerage firms are taking a step back to understand what potential options they may have if the rule changes or simply goes away altogether. Click HERE to read via InvestmentNews; registration required
MetLife on Track for Brighthouse Spinoff in First Half
{February 6th, 2017} by Cyril Tuohy
MetLife is on track to spin off Brighthouse Financial, its huge U.S. retail life and annuity distributor, in the first half of 2017, MetLife’s top executive said. Spinning off Brighthouse Financial into a separate company represents a key element to MetLife’s plan to transform itself into a leaner, more nimble life insurer. “Our target is […]
Details emerge on President’s fiduciary rule directive
{February 6th, 2017} by Melanie Waddell
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday afternoon directing the Labor Department to undertake an assessment of its fiduciary rule, and if it deems appropriate, a proposal to revise the rulemaking, which industry officials say would delay the rule’s April 10 effective date. Acting Labor Secretary Ed Hugler said in a statement that the […]
Dodd-Frank’s tentacles go deep, won’t be easily cut
{February 6th, 2017} by ROBERT SCHMIDT, JESSE HAMILTON, ELIZABETH DEXHEIMER
(Bloomberg) — It took seven years to put in place the regulatory strictures imposed on Wall Street after the financial crisis. They won’t be removed fast or easily. President Donald Trump’s Friday directive that set in motion a scaling back of the Dodd-Frank Act was more pageantry than policy, said lawyers and former government officials who worked […]
Dodd-Frank repeal could lead to big changes for indexed annuities
{February 6th, 2017} by Greg Iacurci
President Donald Trump’s executive order to review the Dodd-Frank financial reform law could wind up complicating the indexed annuity market for insurers and distributors. Click HERE to read the full article via InvestmentNews; registration required ARTICLE excerpts: “I definitely think it would pave the way for the SEC to make an attempt at […]
OneAmerica® Introduces New Indexed Dividend Crediting Option Rider for Whole Life Policies
{February 6th, 2017} by OneAmerica
INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 6, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — OneAmerica® today introduced the Indexed Dividend Crediting Option (IDO) Rider – a unique product that allows Legacy and Legacy 121 policyholders to participate in market upswings without sacrificing whole life guarantees, including a steady cost of insurance and increasing cash value. With IDO, a policyholder may earn up to double […]
IRS Launches 13 Issue-Based Corporate Compliance Campaigns
{February 6th, 2017} by Mark D. Allison, J. Clark Armitage, Kirsten Burmester, Niles A. Elber, Neal M. Kochman, Rachel L. Partain, Charles M. Ruchelman, James E Salles, Zhanna Ziering and Dustin J. Barzell
On January 31, 2017, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) launched its first wave of compliance “campaigns.” A campaign is an issue-based compliance process centering on focused examinations, staffed with IRS experts on the targeted subject matter. The 13 identified campaigns (click here to access more information) cover a broad range of topics, including TEFRA partnerships, […]
Annuities: Guaranteed income comes at a price
{February 5th, 2017} by Mark Cussen, The Motley Fool
If you’re looking for a guaranteed stream of income throughout retirement, then an annuity may be the best option for you. Annuities offer lifetime income, tax-deferral, and many other benefits that can help to make your retirement financially secure. However, there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Before you think about buying an annuity, […]
NCOIL COMMUNICATES WILLINGNESS OF STATE LEGISLATORS TO WORK WITH CONGRESS
{February 3rd, 2017} by NCOIL
For Immediate Release February 2, 2017 Contact: Paul Penna (732) 201-4133 NCOIL COMMUNICATES WILLINGNESS OF STATE LEGISLATORS TO WORK WITH CONGRESS Sent Letters about Future of Dodd-Frank and Affordable Care Act Manasquan, NJ: As the 115th Congress has begun work to reform the Affordable Care Act and the Dodd-Frank […]
Dallas Judge to Decide by Next Week on DOL Rule
{February 3rd, 2017} by John Hilton
Dallas federal Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn announced Thursday that she intends to rule by next week on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce-led lawsuit against the Department of Labor fiduciary rule. The judge took the unusual step of issuing a one-sentence notice to the parties that the long-awaited ruling is coming. “The Court expects to issue its […]
Villas, Castles, and Vacations, 2017 edition
{February 3rd, 2017} by The Office of Senator Elizabeth Warren
The Office of Senator Elizabeth Warren updated Villas, Castles, and Vacations published on February 3, 2017. Click HERE to view via www.warren.senate.gov Download the pdf: 2017-2-3_Warren_DOL_Rule_Report
President Trump: Halt DOL fiduciary rule, Dodd-Frank now
{February 3rd, 2017} by Melanie Waddell
President Donald Trump is expected to sign a directive Friday telling the Department of Labor to halt implementation of its fiduciary rule, which is set to take effect April 10. Another executive action to be issued simultaneously will roll back the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Trump will order DOL to review […]
Can you see it? This Iowa building has an R2 unit as its dome
{February 3rd, 2017} by Aaron Young
Do you see it? The internet has gone back and forth on social media the past few days saying that this building has an R2 unit on its top, famously known from the “Star Wars” series. The building is actually home to the American Equity Investment Life Holding Company, located at 6000 Westown Parkway in […]
4 times the Super Bowl made people think about life insurance
{February 3rd, 2017} by ELANA ASHANTI JEFFERSON
From the hot wings and Seven Layer Dip to the downright quaint idea of family and friends gathering together in the digital age to watch a live television broadcast, it’s hard to take issue with the traditions that characterize Super Sunday. The Super Bowl also tends to distract consumers from thinking about potentially sombering issues […]
One, Inc. Launches ClaimsPay Instant Claims Payment Solution
{February 3rd, 2017} by Anthony R. O'Donnell
The new ProcessOne payment software component, lets insurers deliver claim payouts instantly to a claimant’s bank account, debit card, or prepaid debit card. Speaking at the One, Inc.’s first user group meeting yesterday in Scottsdale, Ariz., CEO Chris Ewing made a blunt statement introducing the vendors new ClaimsPay solution, officially announced this morning: “The check […]
Interim SEC Boss Goes Beyond Caretaker Role to Plot Rules Revamp
{February 3rd, 2017} by Benjamin Bain
Republican economist Michael Piwowar plans to use his role as interim leader of Wall Street’s top regulator to lay the groundwork for revamping financial industry rules, possibly including those governing the stock market and corporate disclosures. A week after being named acting chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Piwowar said in an interview he […]
Plan B for Trump’s ‘big number’ on Dodd-Frank bypasses Democrats
{February 3rd, 2017} by Elizabeth Dexheimer
(Bloomberg) — Donald Trump faces a major hurdle in fulfilling his pledge to do a “big number” on the Dodd-Frank Act: persuading enough Democrats to go along. That’s why Republican lawmakers say they are considering a backup plan for dismantling parts of the financial-rules overhaul that wouldn’t require support from a single Democrat. In the narrowly-divided Senate, […]
4 ways to bridge the $12 trillion life insurance gap
{February 3rd, 2017} by Daniel Williams
Why don’t more people buy life insurance? That’s the first question I ask Doug “Buddy” Amis, president and COO of Cary, NC-based Cardinal Retirement Planning, Inc., when I get him on the phone. I know the potential answers to the question before I ask. Click HERE to view the full story via LifeHealthPro; free registration
Interest rate fears hit world’s life product menus
{February 3rd, 2017} by Allison Bell
The International Association of Insurance Supervisors says prolonged low interest rates are causing sobering changes in life insurers’ operations all around the world. Some life insurers may be making some changes in investment strategies. But partly due to stringent investment regulations, insurers are responding to low rates mainly by changing what they sell, the Basel, Switzerland-based regulator group says […]
Former SEC chair Mary Jo White speaks
{February 3rd, 2017} by Melanie Waddell
After nearly four years as head of the Securities and Exchange Commission — one of the longest terms served by any SEC chair — outgoing Chairwoman Mary Jo White quips that she’s “not tired at all. This is a great job. […] The issues are not only critically important to investors and the markets, but […]
Trump to Order Review of Dodd-Frank, Halt Obama Fiduciary Rule
{February 3rd, 2017} by Justin Sink, Elizabeth Dexheimer, Katherine Chiglinsky
President Donald Trump will order a sweeping review of the Dodd-Frank Act rules enacted in response to the 2008 financial crisis, a White House official said, signing an executive action Friday designed to significantly scale back the regulatory system put in place in 2010. Trump also will halt another of former President Barack Obama’s regulations, hated […]
Ameriprise ‘will adjust’ if Trump delays fiduciary rule
{February 2nd, 2017} by Andrew Welsch
After spending millions to revamp systems and procedures to prepare for the fiduciary rule, Ameriprise won’t jettison months of effort should the regulation be overturned. That was CEO Jim Cracchiolo’s message to analysts during an earnings call Thursday, when he sought to explain how the firm’s efforts to comply with the rule will leave Ameriprise […]
Derivatives hit contributes to $2.1 billion MetLife net loss
{February 2nd, 2017} by Allison Bell
Rising interest rates contributed to a $3.2 billion after-tax loss on MetLife Inc. and its derivatives in the fourth quarter, but higher rates should be good for company fundamentals, overall. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates and stock prices also contributed to the derivatives loss, executives at the New York-based company said. MetLife executives talked about the derivatives loss […]
Buffer annuities, an index-variable hybrid, garner mixed reactions
{February 2nd, 2017} by Greg Iacurci
While brokerage regulators and some attorneys have seen an uptick in complaints lodged against a type of annuity known as a “buffer annuity,” there’s mixed reaction as to the validity of criticism lodged against the products. Click HERE to view the full article via InvestmentNews; registration required
‘Focus on issues in your direct control,’ A.M. Best urges annuity issuers
{February 2nd, 2017} by RIJ Editorial Staff
Rising rates, increased potential for lower taxes and reduced regulatory hurdles: These post-presidential signs bode well for U.S. life/annuity insurers in 2017, according to a new A.M. Best special report. But insurers “still need to remain focused on the issues that… remain more directly in the industry’s control,” said an A.M. Best release this week. Click HERE […]
Morgan Stanley to Cut Fees, Keep Commissions Despite DOL Doubts
{February 2nd, 2017} by ThinkAdvisor
As Donald Trump’s presidency has raised the possibility of delays and even a repeal of the Labor Department’s new fiduciary standard, Morgan Stanley is telling its 15,700-plus advisors that many of its planned changes will happen regardless. The wirehouse has said its retirement account clients can work with commissions or fees in the future and […]
Nationwide Renews NFL Sponsorship; Expert Says Sports Deals Build Brand
{February 2nd, 2017} by Renée Kiriluk-Hill
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Nationwide remains an official National Football League sponsor for the next four years, with retired Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning continuing to play a large role in the insurer’s NFL advertising. This second, multiyear agreement with the NFL continues Nationwide’s role as presenting sponsor of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the […]
While 70% of Parents Are Comfortable Discussing Wills & Estates, Most Children Remain in the Dark on the Details
{February 1st, 2017} by Fidelity Investments
On average, children underestimate value of parents’ estate by $278,000 BOSTON, February 2, 2017 — How prepared are American families when it comes to leaving a legacy and discussing estate plans with their loved ones? Perhaps less than they may think. According to findings from a recent Fidelity Investments® Family & Finance Study, while the […]
Principal CEO Says Company Ready for Fiduciary Rule as 4Q Net Rises 25%
{February 1st, 2017} by Marie Suszynski,
DES MOINES, Iowa – Principal Financial Group posted a 25% jump in fourth-quarter 2016 earnings as its chief executive officer said the company balanced investments and growth with expense discipline. Net income available to common shareholders during the fourth quarter jumped 25% to $318 million. For the full year, net income climbed 9% to $1.32 […]
Doug Ommen to lead Iowa Insurance Division
{February 1st, 2017} by Allison Bell
Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad, a Republican, says he will appoint Doug Ommen to be Iowa’s insurance commissioner. Ommen has been the state’s acting commissioner since Dec. 26. He succeeds Nick Gerhart, who left to become the chief administrative officer of West Des Moines, Iowa-based FBL Financial Group. Ommen has been Iowa’s deputy insurance commissioner since […]
Conditions fertile for annuities if industry can connect with investors
{February 1st, 2017} by Evan Cooper
Most investors want a guaranteed, pension-like income yet, are reluctant to buy an investment that can provide it: an annuity. Click HERE to view the full story via InvesmentNews; registration required A number of factors — DOL fiduciary, low interest rates and longevity — are coming together in favor of annuities if certain impediments […]
American National launches its second original series on FuelTube.com
{February 1st, 2017} by American National Insurance
SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Feb. 01, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American National is inviting car lovers everywhere to check out “A Car Story,” the latest original series on FuelTube.com. This series, which is written, directed and produced exclusively by American National, offers an up close and personal look at some unique cars. This first season features speed […]
Business Record Forty Under 40
{February 1st, 2017} by Business Record
The Business Record is proud to announce the 18th annual list of Forty Under 40 honorees. These 40 local business leaders, who were chosen by past award winners, are under the age of 40 and have demonstrated impressive career achievements and unparalleled community involvement. Together, they join 680 past Business Record Forty Under 40 honorees […]
