Why So Many Indexed Universal Life Policies Seem Doomed to Fail

March 24, 2026 by Warren S. Hersch

Indexed universal life had another record year in 2025, as consumers chase index-linked growth with downside protection.

New premium for indexed life products last year beat 2024’s record by 8.14%, according to industry researcher Wink .

Read at Life Annuity Specialist 

Note from Life Annuity Specialist: In our multi-part series on the controversies around indexed universal life, Part 1 examines the problems with marketing life insurance as a retirement plan. Part 2 focuses on the fundamental flaw in IUL illustrations that make them so unlikely to deliver on their promises. And Part 3 looks at how declining cap rates can make it impossible for an IUL policy to realize illustrated returns.

Originally Posted at Life Annuity Specialist on Mar 20, 2026 by Warren S. Hersch.