Pacific Life Launches Feature-Rich Universal Life Product
{September 30th, 2025} by Pacific Life Insurance Company
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Pacific Life announced today that it has added a new flexible premium universal life (UL) insurance product to its lineup. Pacific Venture UL 21 provides a robust set of choices and replaces the Versa-Flex Venture UL2 product. This versatile UL product is designed for business owners and affluent clients looking for competitively priced insurance […]
SBLI Refreshes Brand Identity with a Focus on Modern, Simple Life Insurance Protection
{September 30th, 2025} by SBLI (The Savings Bank Mutual Life Insurance Company of Massachusetts)
WOBURN, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–SBLI (The Savings Bank Mutual Life Insurance Company of Massachusetts), a mutual life insurance company trusted by generations of families since 1907, today launched a refreshed evolution of its brand identity. The identity marks a renewed expression of SBLI’s mission to offer “Simply Better Life Insurance” – dependable, affordable life insurance coverage. Updates […]
Investors Don’t Like Asset Managers’ Annuity Businesses
{September 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Buying annuity issuers makes asset managers bigger, but it may not make them more profitable, and the investors who invest in their stock seem skeptical. Four researchers — Alexander Cheema-Fox, Megan Czasonis, Piyush Kontu and George Serafeim — have published those conclusions in a working paper distributed through the Harvard Business School accounting and management unit. Read […]
Two Big Social Security Advisory Groups Join Forces
{September 30th, 2025} by John Manganaro
The National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts, a certification and education organization helping financial professionals improve their knowledge about Social Security claiming strategies, announced Tuesday that it has entered a strategic partnership with Social Security Advisors. Social Security Advisors has more hands-on Social Security planning, filing and troubleshooting experience than any other private company in the […]
FINRA Issues Warning for Firms Outside the U.S.
{September 30th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority is reminding broker-dealers and their reps that no matter where they are located — even if outside the U.S. — they are required to provide information and testimony in response to a request from FINRA staff. In Regulatory Notice 25-11, released on Sept. 25, FINRA states that members as well as […]
Integrity Partnership Provides 300 Insurance Group with Scalable Growth Strategies and Technology Centered on Serving Clients More Holistically
{September 30th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has partnered with 300 Insurance Group, an independent marketing organization led by Brian Celestine. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. A respected national sales leader, founder Brian Celestine […]
Mountain Life Insurance Company Expands Into Florida Market with Launch of Annuity Products
{September 30th, 2025} by Mountain Life
LEXINGTON, Ky., Sept. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mountain Life Insurance Company, a trusted provider of life insurance and financial security products, today announced the official launch of its annuity product portfolio in the state of Florida. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in The Company’s growth and reinforces its commitment to helping Americans build secure financial futures. […]
Mountain Life Insurance Company Reports Strong Consumer Response to Guaranteed Annuity’s 10% Crediting Rate
{September 30th, 2025} by Mountain Life
LEXINGTON, Ky., Sept. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mountain Life Insurance Company today announced overwhelming positive consumer response to its guaranteed annuity product (“Secure Summit 6”) featuring a 10% first-year crediting rate which equates to a 5.82% full-term guaranteed crediting rate. Since launch, the product has attracted significant interest from customers seeking reliable returns and guaranteed growth for […]
Lincoln Financial to Report 2025 Third Quarter Results on October 30
{September 30th, 2025} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE:LNC) announced today that it will report its results for the third quarter ended September 30, at 6:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, October 30, 2025. A conference call is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day. Earnings materials, including the 2025 third quarter Earnings Release, Earnings Supplement, […]
Corebridge Financial Announces Availability of Life Insurance Products Through Allstate Financial Services
{September 30th, 2025} by Corebridge Financial
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial today announced countrywide availability of its life insurance products through Allstate Financial Services, LLC, representing a strategic addition to the distribution partner network for the Corebridge Life Insurance business. Corebridge will bring its broad portfolio of competitive life insurance products to licensed Allstate sales professionals and customers across the United States. “Corebridge […]
USAA Names Rob Arena President of Life Insurance Company
{September 30th, 2025} by Rob Arena
SAN ANTONIO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–USAA has appointed Rob Arena as President of USAA Life Insurance Company, effective January 5, 2026. Arena brings more than 30 years of experience in life insurance, retirement solutions and asset management, along with a deep personal connection to USAA’s mission and values. Most recently, Arena served as co-president at Global Atlantic Financial […]
Life insurance: The ultimate financial subscription
{September 30th, 2025} by Derek DeSanto
In a world where consumers spend hundreds of dollars monthly on subscription services — from streaming platforms to meal kits — they understand recurring payments for ongoing value. Yet many consumers learn about life insurance from outdated frameworks that emphasize distant mortality instead of immediate, tangible benefits. Read at INN
Judge: No evidence that Athene annuities hurt retirees in PRT deals
{September 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
A New York judge dismissed a pension risk transfer lawsuit filed by former employees of General Electric. Filed in June 2024, the lawsuit challenged the company’s decision to transfer pension obligations to Athene Annuity Life Co., arguing that it was not the “safest annuity choice” in the market. Judge Glenn T. Suddaby dismissed the lawsuit […]
NAIC moves closer to finalizing AG 49-A, new reinsurance guideline
{September 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
A National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ group took another step Thursday toward finalizing a pair of key guidelines. The Life Actuarial Task Force posted Actuarial Guideline 49-A and the new AG 55 for a 21-day comment period following the meeting. Minor language tweaks are involved with the former guideline, while regulators seek comment on draft templates […]
Judge Dismisses Two Carriers From IUL RICO Suit
{September 30th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
An email to National Life Group seeking comment was not returned. In the second quarter, National Life Group was the top seller of indexed universal life with volume of $130 million, according to Wink‘s Sales & Market Report, which tracks the life and annuity market. Read via Life Annuity Specialist
Best’s Special Report: First-Half 2025 Net Income in U.S. Life/Annuity Insurance Industry Increases by Nearly 40%
{September 30th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Net income for the U.S. life/annuity (L/A) insurance industry increased by 39% in the first half of 2025 over the same prior-year period to $19.7 billion, according to a new AM Best report. This financial review is detailed in a new Best’s Special Report, titled, “First Look: Six-Month 2025 US Life/Annuity Financial Results,” and the data is […]
Pacific Life Launches Feature-Rich Universal Life Product
{September 30th, 2025} by Pacific Life Insurance Company
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Pacific Life announced today that it has added a new flexible premium universal life (UL) insurance product to its lineup. Pacific Venture UL 21 provides a robust set of choices and replaces the Versa-Flex Venture UL2 product. This versatile UL product is designed for business owners and affluent clients looking for competitively priced insurance […]
Everly Life Insurance Company and Zinnia Recognized with Datos Impact Award in Technology for Advancing Customer Experience in Life Insurance
{September 30th, 2025} by Everly
TOPEKA, Kan.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Everly, a modern life insurance company dedicated to making protection radically more human, and Zinnia, a leading life and annuity technology company, today announced that they have jointly received the prestigious Datos Impact Award in Insurance Technology in the Digital category. Datos Insights’ annual Impact Awards program recognizes innovations leading the industry and […]
Group 1001 Insurance Appoints Derek Towriss as President of Gainbridge Insurance Agency, LLC
{September 30th, 2025} by Gainbridge
ZIONSVILLE, Ind.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Group 1001 Insurance, a leading financial services company, today announced the appointment of Derek Towriss as President of Gainbridge Insurance Agency, LLC. Towriss has extensive experience in financial services, process improvement, and implementing forward-thinking strategies that align with the company’s growth plans. “Derek’s proven track record of leadership and deep understanding of our […]
Fortitude Re Enters Funding Agreement Backed Note Market with $500 Million Issuance
{September 30th, 2025} by Fortitude Re
HAMILTON, Bermuda–(BUSINESS WIRE)–FGH Parent, L.P., (“FGP” and together with its subsidiaries, “Fortitude Re”), a leading global reinsurance company, today announced that Fortitude Life Insurance & Annuity Company (“FLIAC”) has entered the market for funding agreement backed notes, with its inaugural offering to institutional investors scheduled to settle Oct. 6, 2025. The notes will be issued by […]
Most Popular Best’s Review Articles Include ‘Mutual Insurers Dominate Market Share’ and More
{September 30th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–In the past 30 days, Best’s Review readers have been most interested in the following insurance news coverage: “Mutual Insurers Dominate Market Share in Farmowners Multiperil, Disability Income, Other Lines” examines AM Best data to find out where mutuals have a dominant share of the market. “US Life/Annuity Insurers Embrace Alternatives and Mortgages” provides an excerpt from […]
Fixed-Indexed Annuities See Flurry of Changes, New Products
{September 30th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
The debut of more new and tweaked indexed annuity products is expected to continue with about a half-dozen startup carriers preparing to jump into the segment, said Sheryl Moore, CEO of Wink, publisher of Wink‘s Sales & Market Report. “I expect more product introductions in response to the favorable interest rate environment and companies that are currently doing […]
There will be a gaping hole in the life insurance competitive intel community when he leaves
{September 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
A great leader in the world of competitive intelligence is retiring next week. Peter Crawford helped me to be who I am today. Not only has he been a mentor, but I’ve been friends with him for more than 20 years. Peter- there will be a gaping hole in the life insurance competitive intel community […]
Rolling your 401(k) into an annuity? Here’s what you need to know
{September 30th, 2025} by Rachel Christian
While some insurers will issue an annuity for as little as $10,000, the reality is it usually takes a six-figure investment to produce a meaningful income in retirement. For the average American, the bulk of their net worth isn’t sitting in cash — it’s tied up in a 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plans. In […]
And let’s keep it real- we don’t make it especially easy for new insurance agents to get up and running in this business.
{September 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
I have always been appreciative of multi-level marketing organizations. They are doing something no one else is doing: bringing new blood into the life insurance/annuity field force. And let’s keep it real- we don’t make it especially easy for new insurance agents to get up and running in this business. Instead of bashing these insurance […]
Why 50% of Financial Advisors Are Putting Client Investments Into Annuities
{September 30th, 2025} by Marc Guberti
Annuities have been all the rage lately among financial advisors. Research from ProtectedIncome.org revealed that 50% of financial advisors are allocating more of their clients’ investments into annuities. Read via Yahoo!Finance Wink’s Moore on the Market: Seriously? “Why 50% of Financial Advisors Are Putting Client Investments Into Annuities” In the world of all financial advisors, a whopping 50% […]
BCG Penbridge Adds 2 Pension Risk Transfer Consultants
{September 30th, 2025} by Matt Toledo
Defined benefit pension consulting firm BCG Pension Risk Consultants and BCG Penbridge added Tom Sablak and Sam Mossing to its de-risking consulting practice, the firm announced Tuesday. The duo will help drive and deliver cost management and de-risking consulting services for defined benefit pension plans, according to a firm statement. Read via Chief Investment Officer […]
The Hidden Challenge of Incomplete Annuity Data
{September 30th, 2025} by Joe Gerard
Investor demand for reliable income has never been higher. According to LIMRA, U.S. annuity sales set a record in the first half of this year. The $223 billion total was up a modest but notable 3% over the total for the comparable period last year. LIMRA expects strong annuity sales through 2027 as the population […]
Finseca Names Bob Schellhas Chief Advocacy Officer to Lead Efforts Toward a Stronger, Financially Secure America
{September 30th, 2025} by Finseca
WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Finseca announced today that Bob Schellhas will join the organization as Chief Advocacy Officer, effective December 1, 2025. Schellhas brings more than 20 years of government affairs experience, and a decade in senior leadership roles on Capitol Hill, where he built a reputation for uniting stakeholders and shaping national policy to strengthen […]
Brighthouse Investor Asks Company to Talk to Potential Suitor
{September 23rd, 2025} by Allison Bell
Company that has owned a big stake in Brighthouse Financial since 2018 is asking the annuity issuer to accept an acquisition offer from Aquarian Holdings, if Aquarian has made a good offer. “The time has come to sell the company,” David Einhorn, the president of Greenlight Capital, wrote in a public letter to Brighthouse directors. Read […]
Pacific Life Launches Two New Fixed Indexed Annuities with a Twist
{September 23rd, 2025} by Pacific Life Insurance Company
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Pacific Life announced today the launch of two new fixed indexed annuity offerings, Pacific Index Foundation® 2 and Pacific Index Income™ in approved states and firms. For firms selling the new annuities, these products will replace Pacific Index Foundation® and Pacific Index Edge®. Both offer the option to lock in all rates and […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Repwest Insurance Company and Oxford Life Insurance Company and Its Subsidiary
{September 23rd, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of “a+” (Excellent) of Repwest Insurance Company (Repwest) (Phoenix, AZ). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the FSR of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICRs of […]
Prudential and LPL Collaborate to Expand Access to Retirement Security
{September 23rd, 2025} by Prudential
NEWARK, N.J. & SAN DIEGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. and LPL Financial LLC today announced a further expansion of their relationship, as the two firms collaborate to bring to market an Insurance Overlay retirement lifetime income strategy for LPL’s managed accounts platform. The solution will be designed to reach financial advisors who do not typically use protected lifetime income […]
A-CAP Provides Q2 Financial Update and Highlights Key Asset Transactions that Enhance Policyholder Benefits and Demonstrate Operational Excellence
{September 23rd, 2025} by A-Cap
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A-CAP Group (“A-CAP” or “the Company”), a New York-based insurance and financial services company with over $12 billion in assets, is pleased to share a comprehensive business update, including financial results as of June 30, 2025, notable asset transactions, product enhancements, and strategic operational developments. Q2 Financial Highlights Atlantic Coast Life Insurance Company […]
AM Best Removes From Under Review With Developing Implications and Downgrades Credit Ratings of Stellar National Life Insurance Company
{September 23rd, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has removed from under review with developing implications and downgraded the Financial Strength Rating to B (Fair) from B+ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to “bb” (Fair) from “bbb-” (Good) of Stellar National Life Insurance Company (Stellar) (Phoenix, AZ). The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The […]
Equitable Expands Suite of Registered Index-Linked Annuities
{September 23rd, 2025} by Equitable
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Equitable, a leading financial services organization and principal franchise of Equitable Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EQH), today announced the launch of Structured Capital Strategies® Premier (SCS Premier), a new solution within its portfolio of registered index-linked annuities. This new offering enables clients to capture greater upside potential in the market while maintaining a level of downside protection. […]
American Life & Security Corp. Launches New Nasdaq Intraday Volatility Control Index Crediting Option for American Select FIA
{September 23rd, 2025} by American Life & Security Corp
LINCOLN, Neb., Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — American Life & Security Corp., a rapidly growing carrier in the annuity and retirement space, announces a partnership with Nasdaq Global Indexes to launch the Nasdaq-100 Intraday Elite 15%™ Index, which is now available on the American Select Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA). “The launch of this new index is a testament […]
Sacrificing Retirement Savings for Family
{September 23rd, 2025} by Alliance for Lifetime Income
WASHINGTON, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Supporting their families is a financial sacrifice many Americans are willing to make, even if it means jeopardizing their own retirement and economic well-being. They would rather compromise their own standard of living and even put off medical care than reduce the support they provide. Those are the findings of the […]
Mountain Life Insurance Company Announces Major Technology Upgrades to Enhance Agent and Customer Experience
{September 23rd, 2025} by Mountain Life Insurance Compnany
LEXINGTON, Ky., Sept. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mountain Life Insurance Company, a leading provider of life insurance and annuity solutions, today announced the completion of significant technology upgrades designed to streamline operations and improve service delivery for both agents and policyholders. The comprehensive modernization initiative includes the launch of significant upgrades to its Agent Portal. The centerpiece […]
IUL: Are you ready for what’s next?
{September 23rd, 2025} by Dean Knieps
This year has already proven just how quickly things can shift in the realm of indexed universal life. We’re seeing steady consumer interest paired with aggressive product moves by carriers, all while regulators tighten their focus. This means more opportunities for professionals who monitor where the market is heading, not just where it has been, and who […]
Annuities are booming — here’s what could fuel the next wave
{September 23rd, 2025} by Doug Bailey
Annuities have been the hottest retail investment product by far over the last five years. Can the trend continue? When LIMRA reported that U.S. annuity sales doubled from $219 billion in 2020 to $434 billion in 2024, many in the industry were stunned by the scale and speed of the growth. Read at INN
Flow reinsurance: A popular tool in the life/annuity reinsurance market
{September 23rd, 2025} by Megan Arrogante
Flow reinsurance, or the reinsurance of new policy sales, has become an increasingly popular tool in the life and annuity reinsurance market. These transactions are attractive to ceding insurance companies because they offer a steady source of capital to support product growth and profitability while reinsurers gain access to attractive products in markets where they […]
Integrity Announces IntegrityCONNECT, an All-in-one Technology Growth Engine for Agents and Agencies
{September 23rd, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
Integrity Announces IntegrityCONNECT, an All-in-one Technology Growth Engine for Agents and Agencies Revolutionary technology leverages AI capabilities and sales-focused resources to make it easier for agents to serve more effectively and experience powerful business growth DALLAS – SEPTEMBER 17, 2025 – Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and […]
Trump appointee to Federal Reserve calls for steeper rate cuts
{September 23rd, 2025} by Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s appointee to the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors said Monday that the central bank’s key interest rate should be much lower than its current 4.1% level, staking out a position far different than his colleagues. Stephen Miran, who is also a top economic adviser to Trump, said in remarks to the Economic Club of New York […]
Valmark Financial Group Wins Box’s SMB AI Disruptor Award
{September 23rd, 2025} by Valmark Financial Group
SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Valmark Financial Group has been named the SMB AI Disruptor Award winner at Box’s 15th annual BoxWorks conference. Valmark was one of three finalists recognized and received the award during the BoxWorks closing keynote on September 11, 2025. Box’s customer awards at BoxWorks have recognized innovation for 15 years, with past recipients ranging from […]
Suze Orman Gets It Wrong on Annuities and Taxes
{September 23rd, 2025} by Michael Finke
In a recent podcast episode, personal finance personality Suze Orman answered a question from Michelle, a 50-year-old with $2.3 million in her portfolio. Might it make sense to buy an annuity with some of her $700,000 in taxable brokerage assets “for tax purposes and income”? “No, no, no!” Orman replied. “Because it never makes sense […]
I joined in on “Inside the Exchange”
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Watching this podcast today was HILARIOUS to me! See if you can spot my snafu (hint: you need to watch it to the end!). Thanks for the giggle today, Michael Kazanjian. Keep up the innovation at FIDx!! -sjm
A whopping 9.00% last more than four years
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
How many insurance agents are still in this business, four years after they started in business? Paul LaPiana, CFP® at MassMutual says a whopping 9.00%. 9.00%!!! And there are very few companies that are bringing in new agents, and training them. The leaders in training are still out there: Northwestern Mutual, New York Life Insurance […]
How will life insurance be distributed 10 years from now?
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
My friend Todd Allen, MSM, CLU®, ChFC®, AIF® wanted me to post the following question: “With some projecting 70% of productive agents now being over age 55, and retiring in 10 years, how will life insurance be distributed 10 years from now? Does anyone know of any carriers asking themselves this uncomfortable question and exploring […]
Meet PicklePants, the dog with better plans.
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
PicklePants doesn’t like to come to work with me anymore. She loves Willow (right) and Woodrow (left) too much to leave them. Just a seven-pound dog pic, to cheer up your day! -sjm
Fed Cuts Rates Quarter Point, Signals Labor Market Concerns
{September 23rd, 2025} by Catarina Saraiva
Federal Reserve officials lowered their benchmark interest rate by a quarter percentage point and penciled in two more reductions this year following months of intense pressure from the White House to slash borrowing costs. In their post-meeting statement, policymakers pointed to growing signs of weakness in the labor market to justify their first rate cut […]
The two new series of indexed annuities both offer the option to guarantee the rates for the term
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Pacific Life is replacing 60% of its indexed annuity portfolio with some new products. The two new series of indexed annuities both offer the option to guarantee the rates for the term (you will remember that Pac was one of the first two insurance companies to offer this option). While Pac says this feature is […]
New series that caught my eye
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Prosperity Life just launched a new series of indexed annuities. Things that caught my eye: – 16% premium bonus on the ten-year; – Guaranteed rates for the term (sans the S&P 500 strategy); and – Nearly ten hybrid index offerings. Loved seeing my friends Luke Christenson and Jason Zahn mentioned in the same article! If […]
Vermont judge dismisses two National Life companies from IUL lawsuit
{September 23rd, 2025} by John Hilton
A Vermont judge dismissed a pair of National Life companies from a lawsuit over an indexed universal life policy that returned 0%. Sanya Virani, of Indiana, claims the IUL relies on back-tested historical performance that does not match reality and is “a fraudulent sham.” She initially filed suit nearly a year ago in the U.S. District […]
Steamship Financial Group Empowers Agents and Clients through Integrity’s Proprietary Technology
{September 23rd, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS – SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 – Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has partnered with Steamship Financial Group, an independent marketing organization based in Maine and led by Seth Fenn. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. […]
He indicated that the company will “focus more heavily on distribution in coming years.”
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
F&G‘s Chris Blunt indicates that the organization will “focus more heavily on distribution in coming years.” He adds, “while F&G will continue to retain assets on its balance sheet, it will move toward being a distributor of other firms’ balance sheets.” I am aware of three marketing groups that that FGL has bought into thus […]
We Need Help Growing Life Insurance Distribution: REPRINT #LIAM
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Originally posted February 5, 2011 by Sheryl J. Moore Most of you know that I am passionate about indexed life insurance and indexed annuities. However, I am passionate about insurance products in general. In fact, one of the things that I am MOST passionate about is growing our distribution! Not so long ago, life insurance […]
The Inconceivable Life Lesson #LIAM Reprint
{September 23rd, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
He was not yet four years old when my manager in the home office sat me down and suggested that I purchase life insurance for my oldest child, my only son, AJ. It seemed strange to me to consider his death. Why would I want to purchase life insurance on my child? I would predecease him. This […]
Life Insurance Awareness Month #LIAM
{September 22nd, 2025} by Wink's Intel Pros
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month Wink supports Life Insurance Awareness and will be joining in this month’s awareness campaign! We will be reprinting our CEO, Sheryl Moore’s most requested life insurance-focused articles all month long; they will be indicated with “reprint” in the title. You’ll find these timeless articles are still relevant today. […]
Guaranteed Renewal Rates Highlight Launch of New Prosperity Life Group FIAs: Prosperity PathPro Series
{September 16th, 2025} by Prosperity Life Group
AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prosperity Life Group®, an insurance, reinsurance, and asset management organization, today announced the launch of Prosperity PathProSM Series Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs), issued by S.USA Life Insurance Company, Inc. (S.USA), a Prosperity Company. The series includes two innovative FIAs, Prosperity PathProSM and Prosperity PathPro MaxSM. Both FIAs offer multiple indexed crediting methods with one-year or […]
Income Innovations Proliferate on FIAs in Face of Delayed Retirement
{September 16th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
Second-quarter fixed-indexed annuity sales fell 0.1% compared with a year-ago to $32 billion, according to Wink‘s Sales & Market Report, which tracks the life and annuity market. But sales rose 18.6% from the first three months, which followed a record sales year in 2024. Wink lists 717 different indexed annuities for sale, 41.7% of which come with […]
Legacy Marketing Group® Unveils OptiMarkSM— Redefining Growth for Every Market Condition
{September 16th, 2025} by Legacy Marketing Group
PETALUMA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Legacy Marketing Group today announced the launch of OptiMark, a new accumulation-focused fixed indexed annuity issued by Americo Financial Life and Annuity Insurance Company. Designed to help clients optimize their retirement, OptiMark delivers growth opportunities in any market condition, upfront value, and the confidence of an “A” rated carrier with more than a […]
Lincoln Financial Debuts RILA Income Product Featuring Category-First Legacy Benefit
{September 16th, 2025} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today launched Lincoln Level Advantage 2 IncomeSM index-linked annuity, its first registered index-linked annuity (RILA) with a built-in income benefit, marking an expansion of its product suite. Lincoln Level Advantage 2 Income offers investors guaranteed lifetime income and category-first legacy planning with the optional Estate LockSM Death Benefit while providing opportunities for upside growth and […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Horace Mann Educators Corporation and Its Subsidiaries
{September 16th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “a” (Excellent) of the property/casualty (P/C) and life/health (L/H) members of Horace Mann Educators Corporation (HMEC) (headquartered in Springfield, IL) [NYSE: HMN]. Additionally, AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of “bbb” (Good) […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Guardian Life Insurance Company of America and Its Subsidiaries
{September 16th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A++ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of “aa+” (Superior) of Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian Life) (New York, NY) and its core subsidiaries, The Guardian Insurance & Annuity Company, Inc. (Wilmington, DE) and Berkshire Life Insurance Company of America (Pittsfield, MA) […]
AM Best Downgrades Credit Ratings of Mountain Life Insurance Compan
{September 16th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has downgraded the Financial Strength Rating to B (Fair) from B+ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to “bb” (Fair) from “bbb-” (Good) of Mountain Life Insurance Company (Mountain Life) (headquartered in Lexington, KY). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect Mountain Life’s balance sheet strength, […]
AM Best Places Credit Ratings of CL Life and Annuity Insurance Company Under Review With Developing Implications
{September 16th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has placed under review with developing implications the Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb+” (Good) of CL Life and Annuity Insurance Company (CL Life) (Fort Worth, Texas). CL Life’s Credit Ratings (ratings) have been placed under review with developing implications following the Sept. 4, […]
TIAA Wealth Management & Advice Solutions Announces Lending and Estate Planning Solutions Through Strategic Partnerships
{September 16th, 2025} by TIAA
NEW YORK, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TIAA Wealth Management & Advice Solutions (TW&A) today announced the launch of new securities-backed lending and digital estate planning services through strategic partnerships with The Bancorp and Trust & Will. These new offerings expand TW&A’s holistic wealth management capabilities addressing the diverse and evolving needs of clients. Expanding on our current partnership […]
Employee Fiduciary Urges DOL to Reject PEP Safe Harbor in Favor of a Higher-Standard, Lower-Cost Path for Small Businesses
{September 16th, 2025} by Employee Fiduciary
MOBILE, Ala., Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Employee Fiduciary, LLC, a leading provider of small business 401(k) plans, has formally submitted a comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) urging the agency not to create a regulatory safe harbor that nudges small employers into Pooled Employer Plans (PEPs). Instead, the firm recommends a single-employer 401(k) safe harbor […]
Big money is on the move but young Americans lack financial planning
{September 16th, 2025} by Steve Randall
As trillions of dollars are transferred between generations those set to inherit much of it are showing the weakest financial footing, warns a new report. Read at InvestmentNews
Apollo says bank tie-ups vital for high-grade private credit
{September 16th, 2025} by Francine Lacqua and Francesca Veronesi
Private credit’s effort to finance investment-grade companies is going to come down to its partnerships with banks, according to Apollo Global Management Inc. President Jim Zelter. Read via Bloomberg
Brighthouse Buyout Comes Down to One Bidder and Plenty of Doubts
{September 16th, 2025} by Bloomberg news
Back in January when news broke that Brighthouse Financial Inc. was seeking to sell itself, investors cheered and almost immediately bid up shares of the life insurer by 25%. Seven months later, there’s not so much to celebrate anymore. Wall Street heavy hitters including Apollo Global Management Inc., Carlyle Group Inc. and TPG Inc. have […]
Pushing 60, Gen Xers Worry They’ll Go Broke in Retirement
{September 16th, 2025} by Michael S. Fischer
The oldest Gen Xers turn 60 this year, and many find themselves nearing retirement with deep uncertainties about the state of their finances, according to the latest findings from Northwestern Mutual’s 2025 Planning & Progress Study. Fifty-four percent of this generation think that they will not be financially prepared to leave the workforce when the […]
Brighthouse Buyout Comes Down to One Bidder and Plenty of Doubts
{September 16th, 2025} by Alexandre Rajbhandari
Back in January when news broke that Brighthouse Financial was seeking to sell itself, investors cheered and almost immediately bid up shares of the life insurer by 25%. Seven months later, there’s not so much to celebrate anymore. Wall Street heavy hitters including Apollo Global Management, Carlyle Group and TPG have passed on bidding for […]
Suze Orman Gets It Wrong on Annuities and Taxes
{September 16th, 2025} by Michael Finke
In a recent podcast episode, personal finance personality Suze Orman answered a question from Michelle, a 50-year-old with $2.3 million in her portfolio. Might it make sense to buy an annuity with some of her $700,000 in taxable brokerage assets “for tax purposes and income”? “No, no, no!” Orman replied. “Because it never makes sense for […]
The Life Insurance Myth: Why Americans aren’t buying life insurance
{September 16th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
In order to get more people to buy life insurance, the industry must overcome a lack of consumer education about the product as well as the myth or perception that coverage is too expensive. The 2025 Insurance Barometer Study, conducted by LIMRA and Life Happens, focuses on the opportunities to educate consumers on the benefits and strengths […]
10 New Things the Big Annuity Gate Crashers Are Telling Investors Now
{September 16th, 2025} by Allison Bell
KKR and Apollo Global came out of what seemed like nowhere and used reinsurance deals and other deals to create annuity-issuing giants. KKR’s Global Atlantic generated $6.7 billion in new U.S. individual annuity sales in the first half of the year and ranked 13th in terms of production, according to LIMRA. Read at INN
‘Sandwich Generation’ pressures derail retirement plans for millions, study finds
{September 16th, 2025} by Ayo Mseka
Members of the “Sandwich Generation” – Americans who have both young children and aging parents – are struggling to stay on track toward their retirement and long-term financial goals, according to the 2025 Annual Retirement Study from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement. Read at INN
Younger clients push back on life insurance, forcing advisors to rethink approach
{September 16th, 2025} by Steve Randall
A growing number of younger adults are deciding that life insurance is not for them, reshaping the way financial advisors must guide clients, a new report reveals. Read at InvestmentNews
She’s an entertainer; not an expert on annuities.
{September 16th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
This article, ‘Over My Dead Body’ — Suze Orman Slams $2.3M Listener’s Plan To Buy An Annuity made me really MAD. How wrong can Suze Orman get it, when it comes to annuities? This woman who wrote in specifically asking, “Would it be smart to use about $700,000 from [her] brokerage account to buy an […]
Shaq Was Asked Best Way To Preserve A Sudden Lump Sum Of Money. He Said, ‘Learn The Word Annuity’ — But Most People Think They’re Scammy
{September 16th, 2025} by Jeannine Mancini
Shaquille O’Neal has never been shy about crediting others for his playbook. “I was a thief,” he said in a December interview on the “School of Hard Knocks” YouTube channel with host and co-founder James Dumoulin. “You see somebody that’s doing better than you and you would like to aspire to be them — steal what they’re […]
What am I missing here?
{September 16th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
– Street level compensation of 7.00% – Supplemental comp with a possible additional 2.00%; and – Override of 4.00%(?!?) – First-year surrender charge of 10.00% What am I missing here? (And yes, I am desensitized to the override. Sheesh!) Join in the conversation on LinkedIn -sjm
When You May Want To Add Guaranteed Income To Your Financial Picture
{September 16th, 2025} by Cicely Jones
Due to many investors’ uncertainty about today’s market, I’ve seen many people opt to move entirely to cash and take investing off the table, but I’ve also had many investors approach me with questions about how to protect their investments and guarantee income. At the end of the day, the right investment for you entirely […]
The Popular Rise of Lifetime Income on Annuities
{September 16th, 2025} by Raymond James
Annuities can provide a guaranteed lifetime income stream in retirement, no matter how long you live. They thrive under high interest rate environments and are currently offering the highest payouts seen in years. Recent market trends have led to a surge in their popularity. The cause – which resulted in record total U.S. retail annuity […]
What seniors should know about inflation and annuities now
{September 16th, 2025} by Angelica Leicht
The latest inflation data is in, and unfortunately, it comes with more bad news for consumers. The Consumer Price Index data, released today, shows that inflation climbed to 2.9% in August, marking yet another uptick in prices. And Americans are clearly feeling the impact, with two-thirds of consumers reporting in a recent poll that they […]
Power of Attorney
{September 16th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
How well do I know this… My father didn’t think he needed a Power of Attorney until he was diagnosed with vascular dementia, and no longer had capacity. In May of 2025, I was granted a conservatorship/guardianship over my father. So far, it has cost more than $5,000.00. Thank you, Shannon Laymon-Pecoraro, CELA for discussing […]
Insurance Overlays
{September 16th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
I recently showed my age, with a glaring snafu on an interview with FIDx‘s Michael Kazanjian. Check out this sneak peak, and look forward to the unveiling of the snafu, next week! 😀 -sjm
LIMRA CEO sees an industry beating back challenges as sales soar
{September 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
The life insurance industry has plenty of challenges, LIMRA CEO Dave Levenson acknowledged, but more reasons for optimism. Start with sales. Both life insurance and annuity sales are setting records in 2025, fueled by intense competition and smart product development. Sales will certainly dominate discussions at the LIMRA 2025 Annual Conference in Kissimmee, Fla. Levenson […]
Can insurers really double the recent record annuity sales numbers?
{September 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
ORLANDO — A panel of five at the LIMRA 2025 Annual Conference agreed unanimously Monday that annuity sales will double again by the end of 2030. The annuity market is benefiting from favorable trends, economic conditions, demographics and supportive legislation. It all helped sales nearly double since the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic to $434 billion in […]
The next frontier: Fee-based annuity sales offer peek into the future
{September 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
ORLANDO — Sales of fee-based annuities are growing significantly, but at $8 billion, remain just a small portion of overall annuity sales. LIMRA projects $6.9 billion in fee-based variable annuity sales this year, and another $1.1 billion in fee-based fixed-indexed annuity sales. Those numbers are up from $4 billion and $466 million, respectively, in 2022. […]
‘I committed zero crimes’: Unrepentant ‘Annuity King’ pursues appeals from prison
{September 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
Phillip Roy Wasserman suffered another setback last week when a federal judge sided with Florida and federal investigators in his civil lawsuit. U.S. District Judge Tom Barber awarded summary judgment to Stephen Howland, the State of Florida Office of Financial Regulation, and the federal government. Howland is a former financial investigator for the OFR. Wasserman, […]
At LIMRA 2025, experts urge insurers to accelerate AI transformation
{September 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
ORLANDO – The length of “addressable tasks” that artificial intelligence can complete has doubled every seven months for the past six years. AI is changing the way we work, and insurance and financial services are among the industries leading the way. But it’s not enough to simply incorporate AI, said Luke Purcell, managing director and partner […]
Succession Planning: Strategies for Long-Term Business Health
{September 16th, 2025} by Spencer Hulse
Succession planning is a critical aspect of ensuring long-term business success. This article presents expert-backed strategies for creating a robust succession plan. From building a decentralized knowledge base to aligning financial structures with leadership transitions, these insights offer practical steps for maintaining business continuity. Build a Decentralized Knowledge Base Start Succession Conversations Early Pair Leadership Development […]
Top 10 Annuity Issuers That Aren’t Public Companies: 2024
{September 16th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Some of the companies that write your clients’ annuities are a little harder to track than others. A new market share report from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners sheds some light on the operations of the nonpublic issuers. The nonpublic companies include policyholder-owned mutual, insurers owned by nonprofit fraternal organizations and insurers owned by individuals, families […]
Knighthead Annuity on the Role of Fixed Rate Solutions in Client Portfolios
{September 16th, 2025} by HNW Insurance Summit – Singapore 2025
At the Hubbis HNW Insurance Summit – Singapore 2025, Knighthead Annuity & Life Assurance Company’s John J. Harrell, CFP® CMFC®, Senior Business Advisor, and Robert Chan, Executive Vice President, Chief Brand Development Officer, outlined the opportunities for fixed annuities as a complement to structured products, savings plans, and traditional life insurance solutions. With more than […]
You know- the guy that used to lead American Equity.
{September 16th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
It is been just over a year since Prosperity Life acquired National Western Life Insurance Company (NWL). (You will recall that Prosperity already owns SBLI USA and S.USA.) And now…JAB Insurance is acquiring Prosperity! Don’t know who JAB Insurance is? It is a company that was formed by CEO, Anant Bhalla. (You know- the guy […]
Q2 life insurance sales surge; policies sold hit quarterly record
{September 16th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Total new annualized premium increased 13% to $4.5 billion in the second quarter, according to LIMRA’s retail life insurance sales survey results, which represent 80% of the U.S. market. Northwestern Mutual led the way with $572 million in new annualized premium in the quarter, while Pacific Life was second. Prudential Financial attracted the most total […]
Fox 5 Turns to Finseca to Provide Clarity in Uncertain Times
{September 16th, 2025} by Finseca
Finseca CEO Marc Cadin joined Tom Fitzgerald on Fox 5 On The Hill to highlight how the profession is providing clarity when it’s needed most. View at Finseca
Triangle Life Launches Global Harmony: A Modern Indexed Universal Life Insurance Solution for HNW Clients
{September 16th, 2025} by AInvest
Triangle Life Insurance Co. Ltd. introduces Global Harmony, a flexible premium indexed universal life insurance product designed for high-net-worth clients. The product combines significant protection levels, competitive pricing, and well-known features, delivered through a digital service model that streamlines the client journey and empowers advisors. Key features include protection for what matters most, growth potential […]
DROPPING SOME KNOWLEDGE ON UNIVERSAL LIFE PRODUCTS: REPRINT #LIAM
{September 16th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Recently, one of the largest Field Marketing Organizations (FMOs) in the country asked for Wink’s help with a big premium financing case. While preparing to run illustrations for the study, our team reviewed the list of products that the FMO wanted to include. I was shocked to see that while all of the products were […]
FUNDING UNIVERSAL LIFE INSURANCE AT TARGET? YOU’RE MISSING THE POINT: REPRINT #LIAM
{September 16th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
The following article is a reprint, originally written July 15, 2013 by Sheryl J. Moore: Throughout the past [20] years of working with universal life (UL) products, one comment in particular has been overheard far too often: “…fund this UL at [X percent] over target.” This comment is especially popular in the indexed life market, […]
Let’s get some more of that!
{September 9th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
FREAKING OUT!!! Just saw a commercial from Brighthouse Financial, promoting ANNUITIES! And it actually SAID “annuities!” Let’s get some more of that! -sjm
It will become a habit if you do it consistently for 21 days.
{September 9th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
My current read is “Signs: The Secret Language of the Universe” by Laura Lynne Jackson. While I would highly recommend the book, I believe that the most important part of it is on this, the 255th page of the book. I hope you are able to read it. It is how I turn my negative […]
Equitable Joins the ‘Bermuda Triangle’ Club
{September 9th, 2025} by Kerry Pechter
For one of the biggest U.S. life/annuity companies, the effects of the Great Financial Crisis of 2008 have only slowly receded. Equitable Holdings, parent of Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company of New York (EFLIC), has just finished shedding old business and even old locations in recovering from the effects of that crisis. Read at RIJ
Symetra Named a Fortune Best Workplace in Financial Services & Insurance™ For Third Consecutive Year
{September 9th, 2025} by Symetra
BELLEVUE, Wash.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Symetra Life Insurance Company announced that Fortune® magazine and Great Place to Work® have recognized the company as one of the 2025 Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance™. This is Symetra’s third consecutive appearance on the list, coming in at No. 29 among organizations in the large workplaces category. A global authority on workplace […]
New York Life to unify investment businesses, creating a premier $785 billion global investment platform
{September 9th, 2025} by New York Life
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–New York Life today announced the combination of its general account and third-party asset management businesses to create a global investment platform with approximately $785 billion in assets under management, effective Jan. 1, 2026.1 The newly unified platform will bring together the full scale and capabilities of the firm’s investment expertise across public and […]
JAB Insurance Completes Acquisition of Prosperity Life Group
{September 9th, 2025} by JAB Insurance
MIAMI & NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–JAB Insurance today announced that it has completed its acquisition of Prosperity Life Group (“Prosperity”) from Elliott Investment Management. With nearly $30 billion in assets and one million policyholders, Prosperity will become a foundational part of the JAB Insurance business. Prosperity serves approximately one million policies through protection and retirement solutions. […]
VS Insurance Services Expands Support for Underserved Populations by Partnering with Integrity
{September 9th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has partnered with VS Insurance Services, an independent marketing organization based in Anaheim, California, and led by Veronica Sandoval. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. Built on more than […]
Reality Bites: Gen X is Nearing Retirement and More than Half Don’t Believe They’ll be Financially Ready When the Time Comes, According to Northwestern Mutual Planning & Progress Study
{September 9th, 2025} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The oldest members of Generation X turn 60 in 2025 and many in the “middle child” generation find themselves hurtling closer to their retirement years with deep uncertainties about the state of their finances. The latest findings from Northwestern Mutual’s 2025 Planning & Progress Study reveal that more than half (54%) of Gen X’ers […]
ChatGPT on Equitable, Solvency II and the Bermuda Triangle
{September 9th, 2025} by Editorial Staff
One step of Equitable Holdings’ evolution into a “Bermuda Triangle” life/annuity company was its 2018-2020 split from AXA, the French insurance giant. We knew the split followed a European regulatory initiative called “Solvency II.” But we didn’t know the details. Read at RIJ
Fortune Media and Great Place To Work Name Penn Mutual to 2025 Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance List
{September 9th, 2025} by Penn Mutual
PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Great Place To Work® and Fortune have selected The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (Penn Mutual) for the 2025 Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance™ List. This is Penn Mutual’s third time being named to this prestigious list. Earning a spot means that Penn Mutual is one of the best companies to work for in the […]
7 Corebridge Annuity Design Secrets
{September 9th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Annuity sales should stay strong for decades to come, no matter what happens to the economy over the next few years. Kevin Hogan, the CEO of Corebridge Financial, made that prediction earlier this week in New York, at the KBW Insurance Conference. Read at Think Advisor
Life Health Annuities Slideshow 5 Insurers That Sold the Most RILAs in Q2
{September 9th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Smaller issuers of registered index-linked annuities are eating a bigger share of the RILA pie. That’s the lesson that emerges from Wink’s recently released annuity sales data for the second quarter. Total RILA sales increased 16% between the second quarter of 2024 and the latest quarter, to $18.2 billion. Read at Think Advisor
Who Actually Needs to Register as a Broker-Dealer? — SEC Roundup
{September 9th, 2025} by Nicolas Morgan & Tom Zaccaro
Welcome to SEC Roundup, a bimonthly video series by former Securities and Exchange Commission senior trial counsels Nick Morgan and Tom Zaccaro, founders of the nonprofit advocacy group Investor Choice Advocates Network. In this episode, Morgan and ICAN advisory board member Rodrigo Seira of Cooley are joined by Miles Jennings, head of policy and general […]
Morgan Stanley ups its insurance game with athletes, retired boomers
{September 9th, 2025} by Dan Shaw
Just as many clients expect advisors to go beyond basic investment management and provide help with complicated matters like taxes and trusts, many are now also demanding advice on insurance. Read at Financial Planning
After bailout and restructuring, AIG bets big on AI
{September 9th, 2025} by Doug Bailey
American International Group (AIG), after surviving scandal and near failure, as well as shaking off a government takeover, is moving into what its top executive described as a “new chapter” — one marked by stronger financial performance, disciplined underwriting, and an aggressive push into generative artificial intelligence. Speaking on a recent presentation with analysts and […]
How Two Clark-Approved Annuities Can Reduce Retirement Stress
{September 9th, 2025} by Cark.com Staff
For decades, money expert Clark Howard has warned people to steer clear of annuities. He’s even called the word itself a “cuss word” in personal finance. That’s because most annuities come loaded with sky-high fees, confusing rules, and salespeople who make more money off the commission than you do off your investment. Read via Clark.com […]
Fixed Universal Life Sales Plunge as Indexed Life Gains, Wink Says
{September 9th, 2025} by Warren S. Hersch
Volume fell about 30% from a year earlier to $69.8 million, according to Wink, publisher of Wink‘s Sales & Market Report. Read at Life Annuity Specialist Wink’s Note: View our annuity sales news release, https://www.winkintel.com/2025/08/2q2025_annuity_sales/ and Moore on the Market: https://www.winkintel.com/2025/08/second-quarter-2025-annuity-sales/
New York Life Transfers Nearly $2B in Liabilities to Blackstone-Linked Insurer
{September 9th, 2025} by Warren S. Hersch
New York Life’s quiet $1.9 billion reinsurance deal with Everlake underscores the blurring lines between traditionally conservative mutuals and carriers backed by private equity and alternative asset managers. Read via Life Annuity Specialist Wink’s Moore on the Market: Is New York Life Insurance Company taking the leap to the “Bermuda Triangle,” in […]
What’s next for the Federal Insurance Office?
{September 9th, 2025} by Doug Bailey
A federal office of insurance created just 15 years ago, designed to address weaknesses in financial oversight, has been an endangered species since the day it was born. Despite the U.S. insurance industry being a cornerstone of the national economy and a critical player in global financial markets, regulation of it has been left to individual […]
Aquarian, Other Investors in Final Push to Buy Brighthouse
{September 9th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
New York-based asset manager Aquarian Holdings is in the final fundraising sprint in its effort to acquire annuity powerhouse Brighthouse Financial, according to a news report. Read at Life Annuity Specialist
Private credit, reinsurance top the news
{September 9th, 2025} by Editorial Staff
Bond analysts see pros and cons of alternatives in 401(k)s; Private credit funds attract revenue at record pace; Offshore reinsurance increases life insurer leverage: AM Best; Rising supply depresses Treasuries’ advantage. (With charts.) Read at RIJ
Fidelity National Financial Announces Partnership with CLEAR to Fight Real Estate Fraud
{September 9th, 2025} by Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE: FNF) (FNF), a leading provider of title insurance and transaction services to the real estate and mortgage industries, and a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients through its majority-owned subsidiary F&G Annuities & Life, Inc., today announced a partnership […]
Valmark Unveils New Technology Within Recently Launched InForce Insurance Hub™ to Protect Policyholder Interests and Improve Insurance Outcomes
{September 9th, 2025} by Valmark Financial Group
AKRON, Ohio–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Valmark Financial Group has announced a powerful new technology enhancement to its in-force life insurance business. The new feature, called the Opportunity Engine™, integrates directly into Valmark’s InForce Insurance Hub, which was launched last October at Valmark’s annual Member Summit meeting. The InForce Insurance Hub is supported by the broader infrastructure of Valmark’s […]
Gainbridge®, Parity, and the Women’s Sports Foundation® Award $222,000 in Grants to 32 Organizations and Athletes Through Third Annual Gainbridge® Assists
{September 9th, 2025} by Gainbridge
ZIONSVILLE, Ind.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Gainbridge®, Parity, and the Women’s Sports Foundation® (WSF®) today announced the 2025 recipients of the Gainbridge® Assists Powered by Parity grant program, awarding $222,000 in funding to 32 deserving organizations and athletes across 21 states. These grants aim to level the playing field and expand access to sports and education for girls and women across […]
Why female leaders are critical for AI’s success in life insurance
{September 9th, 2025} by Nicole Mwesigwa
The integration of artificial intelligence and intelligent decisioning is now widely prevalent across the insurance industry. From streamlining underwriting processes to personalizing customer experiences and accelerating claim settlements, AI holds the promise of a more efficient, responsive and ultimately more valuable industry. Read at INN
Red teaming: An effective tool for insurer assessment of AI risks
{September 9th, 2025} by Paige Waters and Stephanie Macro
The insurance industry’s use of artificial intelligence faces increased scrutiny from insurance regulators. Red teaming can be leveraged to address some of the risks associated with an insurer’s use of AI. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology defines a “red team” as: “A group of people authorized and organized to […]
Annuity sales hit record $119.5B in Q2, LIMRA reports
{September 9th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Total U.S. annuity sales increased 8% year over year to a record high $119.5 billion in the second quarter, according to LIMRA’s U.S. Individual Annuity Sales Survey, which represents 92% of the total U.S. annuity market. This tops the record set in the first half of 2024. Read at INN. Wink’s Note: Check […]
Who’s the biggest winner during Life Insurance Awareness Month?
{September 9th, 2025} by Brian Steiner
Sometimes we find amazing win-win opportunities in life. For consumers as well as insurance and financial professionals, Life Insurance Awareness Month is a great example. Life Happens created LIAM and coordinates its celebration each September to educate consumers about the important role life insurance plays in helping families, individuals and small businesses achieve financial security. […]
Reliable and Relevant: Reprint #LIAM
{September 9th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
I will never forget the day when Grandfather came home with tears in his eyes, talking about his client who had died unexpectedly. You see, this client’s wife had just held my grandfather’s hand for hours, as people came through a funeral home, paying their last respects to her husband. She repeatedly thanked him, looking […]
Death Benefit Claim Fail: Reprint #LIAM
{September 9th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
As the nation’s top expert on life insurance and annuity products, I have spent a great deal of my time over the last couple of decades pouring-over specimen contracts and prospectuses. It’s what I do. It’s why I’m the life of the party. Given that, I am going to admit to you one […]
Wink, Inc. Releases Second Quarter, 2025 Life Sales Results
{September 4th, 2025} by Wink's Intel Pros
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE FIXED UNIVERSAL LIFE SALES CONTINUE IN DOWNWARD SPIRAL Wink, Inc. Releases Second Quarter, 2025 Life Sales Results Des Moines, Iowa. August 29, 2025– Wink, Inc. released the second quarter, 2025 life sales results in its 112th edition of Wink’s Sales & Market Report. Wink’s Sales & Market Report […]
SECOND QUARTER 2025 LIFE INSURANCE SALES
{September 4th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
All Life Sales for the second quarter of 2025 were $2,948 million, compared with $2,871 for the second quarter of 2024. Second quarter life sales were up nearly 9% when compared to the previous quarter and up nearly 3% as compared to the same period last year. All life products include indexed life, fixed universal […]
Pacific Life Leads in Q2 Individual Life Sales
{September 4th, 2025} by Allison Bell
U.S. individual life insurance sales increased to $2.9 billion in the second quarter, and 49% of the new premiums came from buyers who wanted to use life insurance to accumulate cash, according to new issuer survey data from Wink. Overall sales were up 2.7% from the second quarter of 2024, but results for individual insurers varied […]
Life sales surge 8.5% in second quarter, Wink reports
{September 4th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Life insurance sales for the second quarter topped $2.9 billion, up 8.5% compared to the previous quarter and up 2.6% compared to the same period last year, Wink, Inc. reports. Strong sales of indexed life led the way, said Sheryl Moore, CEO of Wink and Moore Market Intelligence. “Most of second quarter had a steadily-rising […]
Jackson Launches New Suite of Fixed-Indexed Annuities
{September 4th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
But in the fixed-indexed segment Jackson doesn’t crack the top 10 for sales, according to Wink‘s Sales & Market Report, which tracks the life and annuity market. Jackson has been in the fixed-indexed annuity market since 1996, according to the company. In 2018 the insurer launched its MarketProtector FIA. “It is good to see Jackson giving their […]
Fixed Universal Life Sales Plunge as Indexed Life Gains, Wink Says
{September 4th, 2025} by Warren S. Hersch
Sales of conventional fixed universal life insurance tumbled in the second quarter, according to new research. Volume fell about 30% from a year earlier to $69.8 million, according to Wink, publisher of Wink‘s Sales & Market Report. The double-digit decline contrasted with gains in other flexible premium products, including variable and indexed universal life insurance, Wink reported. Read at […]
‘Sandwich Generation’ Neglecting Retirement Savings, Allianz Life Study Finds
{September 4th, 2025} by Allianz Life
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Americans who have both young children and aging parents are struggling to stay on track toward retirement and long-term financial goals, according to the 2025 Annual Retirement Study* from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, part of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). One in four Americans (25%) have […]
My Best Day in Life Insurance
{September 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
Selling life insurance includes a lot of dry and technical things, like getting licensed and learning about the do’s and don’ts of compliance. And then there are the products, which can veer into arcane territory. Agents have to learn the details about so many aspects of sales and products, including popular features like riders and […]
Court update: Allianz Life faces bevy of lawsuits over July data breach
{September 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
Allianz Life Insurance Co. of North America faces several lawsuits related to a July data breach that affected 1.4 million people. The lawsuits, filed in the District of Minnesota federal court, all claim that the insurance giant failed to treat plaintiffs’ personal data with proper security measures. Allianz Life is headquartered in Minneapolis. Read at INN
What’s next for the Federal Insurance Office?
{September 4th, 2025} by Doug Bailey
A federal office of insurance created just 15 years ago, designed to address weaknesses in financial oversight, has been an endangered species since the day it was born. Despite the U.S. insurance industry being a cornerstone of the national economy and a critical player in global financial markets, regulation of it has been left to individual […]
You Have 100M Americans to Rescue, Pru Exec Warns
{September 4th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Salene Hitchcock-Gear oversees teams that can help highly paid executives save for a retirement on a tropical island. Her people can connect ultra-high-net-worth clients with wealth transfer solutions. But Hitchcock-Gear, the president of Prudential Financial’s Prudential Individual Life Insurance business, wants agents and advisors to remember that they have the power to protect ordinary families […]
4 Myths About Bank-and Company-Owned Life Insurance
{September 4th, 2025} by Jessica Dowdy
Let’s face it: business life insurance policies are some of the most misunderstood products in the life industry. Misconceptions about who corporate-owned (COLI) or bank-owned life insurance (BOLI) policies protect, what they provide and how they fit into the financial plans of a business abound. Read at Think Advisor
Client Sues Advisor, MassMutual Over Premium-Financed Life Strategy
{September 4th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A New Jersey resident is suing an advisor, a financial planning firm, two insurance companies and other parties over the poor performance of a life insurance arrangement that involved the use of premium financing. Joseph Monte, the plaintiff, says Brian McGeehan, a financial advisor with Creative Financial Group, misled him about the state of the […]
Top Annuity Seller Wins Cybersquatting Case
{September 4th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Athene Annuity and Life Company won a victory in court last week over use of the name “Athene” by a cryptocurrency company, Athene Group Ltd. Senior U.S. District Judge Stephen McNamee issued an order that calls for the Athene crypto business to stop using Athene’s trademarks and requires the crypto business to pay Athene Annuity $100,000 in […]
MassMutual and Orion Launch All-in-One Wealthtech Platform to Accelerate Advisor Growth
{September 4th, 2025} by Orion
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. & OMAHA, Neb.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MassMutual, a leading mutual life insurance and financial services company, and Orion, a premier provider of wealthtech solutions for financial advisors and enterprise firms, today announced the addition of a new Wealth Management Solutions (WMS)-Orion platform. This collaboration brings an integrated, flexible technology and investment experience to MassMutual’s network of more than 6,500 […]
AM Best Removes From Under Review With Developing Implications and Affirms Credit Ratings of Gleaner Life Insurance Society
{September 4th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has removed from under review with developing implications and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb” (Good) of Gleaner Life Insurance Society (Gleaner) (Adrian, MI). The outlooks assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect Gleaner’s balance sheet strength, which […]
Best’s Market Segment Report: Global Life/Annuity Reinsurers’ Capital Management Strategies Evolve to Achieve Target Returns, Meet Needs of Cedents
{September 4th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Flourishing annuity sales, using reinsurance as a capital management strategy and rising competition from new market entrants continue to drive activity in the global life/annuity reinsurance segment, according to a new AM Best report. The Best’s Market Segment Report, “Global Life/Annuity Reinsurers’ Capital Management Strategies Evolve to Achieve Target Returns and Meet the Needs of Cedents,” […]
Best’s Market Segment Report: US-Bermuda Reinsurers’ 2024 Remains Strong Despite Pricing Pressure
{September 4th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A composite of AM Best-rated U.S. and Bermuda reinsurers continued its trend of favorable underwriting results in 2024 while generating its fourth consecutive year of underwriting profitability, according to a new AM Best report. The Best’s Market Segment Report, “US-Bermuda Reinsurers Poised To Sustain Solid Performance Despite Pricing Pressure,” is part of AM Best’s look at the global […]
Insurance Agency Marketing Services, Inc., and American Elm Distribution Partners Announce Strategic Partnership to Expand Access to Structured Annuities
{September 4th, 2025} by Insurance Agency Marketing Services, Inc.
OMAHA, Neb. and PORTSMOUTH, N.H., Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Insurance Agency Marketing Services, Inc. (IAMS), a leading independent marketing organization serving financial professionals nationwide, and American Elm Distribution Partners, LLC (AEDP), a FINRA-registered broker-dealer focused on alternative investments and structured annuities, are pleased to announce a strategic partnership focused on expanding access to Registered Index-Linked Annuities (RILAs)* and other […]
