Prudential Retirement Expands Retail Distribution Through Independent Marketing Organizations, Launches New ‘Elevate’ Product Suite
{June 3rd, 2026} by Prudential Financial, Inc.
NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) today announced the launch of Elevate, a suite of retirement products designed for the independent marketing organization (IMO) channel, reinforcing the company’s commitment to growing its retail annuity distribution footprint to reach more financial professionals and help more customers protect their life’s work. The IMO channel represents a […]
Midland National Launches First Fee-Based MYGA with ADL Benefit Rider, Expanding Solutions Built for RIAs
{June 3rd, 2026} by Midland National
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Midland Advisory, part of Midland National® Life Insurance Company, today announced the launch of Oak ADVantage® Care, the first fee-based multi-year guarantee annuity (MYGA) in the industry to include an Activities of Daily Living (ADL) benefit rider. The solution is designed specifically for registered investment advisors (RIAs) and investment adviser representatives (IARs) […]
NAIC regulators continue pushing for annuity illustration updates
{June 3rd, 2026} by John Hilton
State insurance regulators are seeking to reopen a key annuity illustration model regulation as they consider a significant overhaul of how illustrations are used in the sales process. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Annuity Illustration Working Group held conference calls last week and this week in an attempt to forge a consensus path forward […]
Millennials are ready to bring their advisor to the family table
{June 3rd, 2026} by Ayo Mseka
Younger investors want an advisor to serve as a facilitator for cross-generational retirement and financial planning discussions, while older investors are largely declining to take that step. This is according to an Advisor Authority study, powered by the Nationwide Retirement Institute. Six in 10 millennials who have financial professionals said that they would welcome their advisors to facilitate […]
How Raising Children Later in Life Changes Retirement Planning
{June 3rd, 2026} by Rob Burgess
Ryan P. McGonigal said he understands the struggles of clients juggling the prospect of retirement with children still in school. McGonigal, 49, the president, founder and financial planner at RPM Financial Group in Rockville, Maryland, has been an advisor for 27 years. He and his wife began having children when he was 40 and she was 39. […]
Will Life Insurance Policies Be the New Annuities?
{June 3rd, 2026} by Allison Bell
Todd Buchanan affects the recommendations of about 200,000 people in the United States who help clients with life insurance and annuities, and he wants more of those financial professionals to take offering life insurance seriously. Buchanan is the president of AmeriLife’s AmeriLife Wealth independent advice and financial services distribution business and the president and chief […]
MetLife Expands Guaranteed Retirement Income Offering with Innovative Flexible Annuity Option
{June 3rd, 2026} by Metlife
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–As demand for guaranteed lifetime income grows, MetLife today introduced a new liquidity feature for its immediate income annuity, the MetLife Guaranteed Income Program (MGIP). This innovative design offers defined contribution plan participants a simple way to convert savings into reliable income while maintaining greater flexibility early in retirement. The Annuity Cancellation Option […]
Lincoln Financial Announces Executive Leadership Transitions
{June 3rd, 2026} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today announced the promotion of three senior leaders to its Senior Management Committee (SMC): Darrel Tedrow as Executive Vice President, President of Life Insurance and Retail Shared Services; Curtis Chesney as Executive Vice President, President of Annuities; and Paul Spurr as Executive Vice President, Chief Risk Officer and Chief Actuary. All three report directly to […]
Continental General Acquires Block of Life Insurance and Annuity Policies from State Guaranty Associations
{June 3rd, 2026} by Continental General Insurance Company
AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Continental General Insurance Company (together with its affiliates, “Continental General” or the “Company”) today announced that it has completed the acquisition of a block of insurance and annuity policies issued by Southland National Insurance Corporation (“SNIC”) from the state life and health insurance guaranty associations in a transaction coordinated by the National Organization […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Symetra Financial Corporation and Its Subsidiaries
{June 3rd, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “a+” (Excellent) of Symetra Life Insurance Company and its subsidiary, First Symetra National Life Insurance Company of New York (New York, NY), together referred to as Symetra Life Group. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed […]
Nationwide Reaches Reinsurance Agreement with MassMutual on Universal Life Policy Block
{June 3rd, 2026} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nationwide has reached an agreement with MassMutual to reinsure a block of fixed Universal Life insurance policies, comprising more than 30,000 policyowners. The transaction, which is expected to close in Q2, 2026, has a total face value of nearly $16 billion and will increase Nationwide Financial’s reserves by $6 billion. Nationwide expects to […]
John Hancock Announces Longer. Healthier. Better. Network for Financial Professionals
{June 3rd, 2026} by John Hancock
BOSTON, May 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – John Hancock today announced the Longer. Healthier. Better. Network (LHB Network), an exclusive community of forward-thinking independent financial professionals committed to helping customers live longer, healthier, better lives. Launching with an initial 200 founding members, the LHB Network further redefines the role life insurance can play in helping to meet the evolving needs of […]
America’s Declaration of “In Dependence”: More Than Half of Millennials and One-Third of Gen X Still Feel Financially Dependent on their Parents, According to Northwestern Mutual 2026 Planning & Progress Study
{June 3rd, 2026} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, June 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — While the nation approaches its 250th anniversary of independence, true financial independence remains out of reach for a significant portion of Americans. Currently, 42% of adults still rely on their parents for financial support – including more than half of Millennials and a third of Gen X. Most concerning of all, […]
Transamerica, T. Rowe Price and TIAA Expand Access to Lifetime Income for Retirement Plan Investors
{June 3rd, 2026} by Transamerica
BALTIMORE, June 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Transamerica today announced a collaboration with T. Rowe Price, a global leader in investment management and retirement solutions, and TIAA, a market-leading retirement company with more than a century of experience delivering guaranteed income, to expand access to guaranteed lifetime income for retirement plan participants through T. Rowe Price IncomeSelect® by Transamerica. By […]
Insurers urged to temper expectations with AI pilots
{June 3rd, 2026} by Rayne Morgan
While an increasingly popular narrative suggests most artificial intelligence pilots undertaken by companies fail, one insurance industry expert said failure is relative and insurers should temper their expectations accordingly. A 2025 Massachusetts Institute of Technology study found that around 95% of AI pilots fail to demonstrate measurable return on investment. That study exploded in public […]
What You Should Know As Annuity Sales Soar
{June 3rd, 2026} by Bob Carlson
Annuity sales are soaring, because retirees and pre-retirees want more guaranteed income and principal protection. Annuity sales increased to $223 billion in the first half of 2025, 3% higher than in the first half of 2024. Quarterly annuity sales hit their highest level ever in the second quarter of 2025, a total of more than […]
The Standard and Pacific Guardian Life Announce Entry into Agreement to Transition Individual Annuities Business
{May 27th, 2026} by The Standard
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Did you see this? *insert eyes emoji here* “Standard Insurance Company (The Standard) and Pacific Guardian Life announced today a definitive agreement under which The Standard will transition its individual annuities business to Pacific Guardian Life.” Both companies are a part of the Meiji Yasuda family of companies. Know that the […]
Judge sends Greg Lindberg back to federal prison for fraud, bribery
{May 27th, 2026} by John Hilton
Federal District Court Judge Max O. Cogburn sentenced disgraced financier and insurance company magnate Greg Lindberg to more than 12 years in federal prison on Tuesday. Lindberg, 56, had appealed to the court for a sentence essentially amounting to time served. In a recent sentencing memorandum, Lindberg’s attorneys requested concurrent 48-month prison sentences in both […]
NASCAR Champ Kyle Busch Dies at 41
{May 27th, 2026} by Kyle Busch
Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch died Thursday at age 41 after what his family had described as a severe illness, shocking the racing world. The race car driver’s death came nearly three months after he and his wife, Samantha, made a confidential settlement with Pacific Life Insurance over a lawsuit in which the couple had […]
Kyle Busch’s cause of death revealed: severe pneumonia, sepsis
{May 27th, 2026} by Jay Busbee
Kyle Busch died of pneumonia leading to sepsis, according to a statement provided by the Busch family on Saturday morning. “The medical evaluation provided to the Busch Family concluded that severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming associated complications,” the family said in a statement. “The Family asks for continued understanding and […]
Here’s how Kyle Busch won $8.5 million months before his death
{May 27th, 2026} by Udisha
American race car driver Kyle Busch passed away on May 21, 2026 suddenly. Besides racing and chasing records, he had been struggling financially but the days of worries seemed over after he won $8.5 million. His unfortunate death at 41 just months days later robbed his family off the happiness. yle Busch and his wife, […]
Shocking death of Kyle Busch renews debate over IUL plan
{May 27th, 2026} by John Hilton
The sudden death Thursday of 41-year-old racing icon Kyle Busch has reignited an intense debate regarding the role of indexed universal life insurance in financial planning. The Busch Family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR issued a joint statement Thursday saying Busch died after being hospitalized. Read at INN
Pacific Guardian Life Acquires the Standard’s Annuities Side
{May 27th, 2026} by Amanda Umpierrez
Standard Insurance Company and Pacific Guardian Life announced a definitive agreement under which The Standard will transition its individual annuities business to Pacific Guardian Life. The Standard and Pacific Guardian Life are both members of the global Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company family. The transaction is expected to close in early 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and […]
Pacific Guardian Life to Acquire The Standard’s Individual Annuities Business
{May 27th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Pacific Guardian Life, a subsidiary of Meiji Yasuda Life, is acquiring the individual annuity business of another, bigger Meiji Yasuda subsidiary, Standard Insurance Company. Meiji Yasuda is a big, Tokyo-based insurer. It acquired Pacific Guardian Life in 1985 and The Standard in 2016. The Standard is handing the individual annuity business over to Pacific Guardian […]
John Hancock Announces Longer. Healthier. Better. Network for Financial Professionals
{May 27th, 2026} by John Hancock
BOSTON, May 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – John Hancock today announced the Longer. Healthier. Better. Network (LHB Network), an exclusive community of forward-thinking independent financial professionals committed to helping customers live longer, healthier, better lives. Launching with an initial 200 founding members, the LHB Network further redefines the role life insurance can play in helping to meet the evolving needs of […]
She paid an insurance company $99,000 to generate retirement income for life. Then it collapsed.
{May 27th, 2026} by Gretchen Morgenson
Wink’s Moore on the Market: If you have read “These Are the Plunderers” by Gretchen Morgenson, you’ll find a familiar face behind this piece. In this article, Gretchen (of NBC News) breaks down the insolvency of PHL Variable Insurance Co. It is definitely worth a read. -sjm ……………………………………………………………….. When Annie Benjamin invested $99,000 in an […]
Malibu Life taps Prudential veteran as new CEO
{May 27th, 2026} by Kenneth Araullo
Malibu Life Holdings has appointed Todd D. Shriber (pictured above) as chief executive officer, effective July 20, 2026, as the company prepares to expand its reinsurance platform and move into US direct annuity origination. Shriber will succeed Gary Dombowsky, who steps down as CEO on the same date. “Todd is exactly the right leader for […]
The hidden risks of indexed universal life and what advisors should know
{May 27th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Indexed universal life insurance now represents about 25% of life insurance sales and the product is rapidly increasing in popularity. “As a result of the growth, there are advisors, attorneys, and other institutions that are being critical of a product that’s so ubiquitous or threatening to their particular business model,” said Michael J. Rothman, chief […]
Tax Court Cites Life, Annuity Assets in 40% Penalty Ruling
{May 27th, 2026} by Allison Bell
A U.S. Tax Court judge has ruled that a taxpayer who set up a microcaptive property and casualty insurance arrangement that used an annuity and a life insurance policy as the only investments must add a 40% penalty, not just a 20% penalty, when he pays the Internal Revenue Service back for tax breaks he […]
Life Insurance and Annuities Have Changed. So Should the Advice
{May 27th, 2026} by Mehran Assadi
The life insurance and annuity industry is undergoing a transformation that is reshaping how financial advisors position these products to clients. Once viewed in simple, separate terms — life insurance for protection and annuities for income — today’s offerings are more dynamic, designed to address a wider range of client needs across both working and […]
Reg BI and New Product Best Practices: What BDs Should Know
{May 27th, 2026} by Melanie Waddell
Six years into Regulation Best Interest, “products have changed, firms have evolved,” Ted Luecke, examination director at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, said at FINRA’s recent annual conference in Washington. “Are your disclosures staying up to date with your new products?” Bringing on new products can mean changing the customer relationship summary known as Form […]
Annuities May Help Clients Live Longer: Study
{May 27th, 2026} by Rob Burgess
Can annuities help lengthen clients’ lives? A new study suggests that this may be the case. The paper, “The Effect of Annuities on Longevity,” was published last month by co-authors Borja Larrain, of Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile; Alessandro Previtero, of the Indiana University Kelley School of Business Department of Finance and the National Bureau of Economic […]
Annuities Tunnel Into the Futur
{May 27th, 2026} by Paul Garolfoli
My favorite author, the irascible Harlan Ellison, rebelled against being pigeon-holed as a science fiction writer. Though his work touched upon traditional “sci-fi” tropes, he felt the term limiting and even demeaning since, through that lens, he was writing about the human condition, frailties and all. Read at Think Advisor
BD Fined $100K Over Deferred VA Exchanges
{May 27th, 2026} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has fined a firm $100,000 for failing to supervise recommendations of exchanges of deferred variable annuities, which violated Regulation Best Interest, and for failing to surveil for inappropriate rates of deferred VA exchanges. From at least April 2022 to November 2023, World Investments LLC also failed to establish and maintain […]
Women Feel Respected by Advisors, but Many Could Do Without the “Mansplaining”
{May 27th, 2026} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — For women investors, the relationship with their financial advisor is largely a positive one. Most say they feel heard, valued and treated the same as their male counterparts. But new data from the Nationwide Retirement Institute shows that feeling respected and truly understood are not always the same thing. Nearly all (95%) women […]
Foresters Financial delivers strong financial performance and growing member impact in 2025 annual report
{May 27th, 2026} by Foresters Financial
TORONTO, May 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – Foresters Financial™ today released its 2025 Annual Report to Members, highlighting a year of strong financial performance, disciplined growth and deepened community impact across Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom. The report reflects Foresters continued focus on delivering financial protection to families while expanding the value of membership through […]
Should All Annuity Illustrations Assume a 5% Interest Rate?
{May 27th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Should All Indexed Annuity Illustrations Assume a 5% Interest Rate? Well, let’s talk about that.. We need to keep in mind that fixed annuities are being illustrated at the [current] crediting rate and that Variable Annuity illustrations are capped at 8.00%. Indexed Annuities should have an illustrated rate between these […]
Fidelity says retirees have annuities all wrong
{May 27th, 2026} by Damilola Esebame
Wink’s Moore on the Market: I really liked this article by Damilola Esebame, CFEI®. Special shout-out to my friends Roddy M. Caraballo , CRPC®, CAS®, NQPC™, CIS™, Stefne Lynch with Fidelity Investments, and Lee Baker, CFP with Claris Financial Advisors, Inc. who all contributed to this piece. And with that, I present you with an […]
How annuities can help protect retirees from financial scams
{May 26th, 2026} by Jacob Wilson
Leading sales relationships in this business gives me a front-row seat to what financial professionals are hearing from retirees right now. Yes, income concerns remain high on the list. So are growth, tax efficiency and leaving something behind for family. But another concern keeps showing up in those conversations, and it’s growing fast: people are worried […]
In HelloNation, Insurance Expert Kathy Powell of Auburn, AL, Highlights Why People Choose Life Insurance Earlier in Life
{May 26th, 2026} by HelloNation
AUBURN, Ala., May 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Why do more people now choose life insurance earlier in life instead of waiting until later? A HelloNation article offers helpful answers for families planning their financial future. The article features insights from Kathy Powell, Insurance Expert of Auburn, AL. Powell also teaches Risk and Insurance at Auburn University. The article begins by […]
AuguStar Retirement launches StarStream Variable Annuity
{May 26th, 2026} by AuguStar Retirement
Wink’s Moore on the Market: From the folks that brought you the best selling Variable Annuity in the nation… (Wow. I have never seen a such a combination of innovative living/death benefits on one Variable Annuity (VA) like this. Have you, Peter Lamond?) Congratulations to AuguStar Retirement for the launch of their first VA! If […]
Rehabilitator: PHL Variable liquidation payouts could exceed guaranty caps
{May 26th, 2026} by John Hilton
A new status update from the Connecticut insurance commissioner offers hope that PHL Variable Insurance Co. policyholders will receive benefits in excess of standard guaranty association limits. Interim Commissioner Joshua Hershman is serving as the court-appointed rehabilitator for the financially troubled PHL Variable. He is pursuing a liquidation plan and provided the Connecticut Superior Court […]
Zinnia launches digital in-force annuity servicing tool
{May 26th, 2026} by Fintech news
Zinnia, a life and annuity technology company, has unveiled a fully digitised in-force annuity servicing capability designed to eliminate paper-based processes from post-issue transaction management. The new functionality, built within Zinnia’s existing Zinnia Live platform, brings carriers, distributors, advisors, and consumers into a single connected workflow. Rather than relying on paper forms, PDFs, wet signatures, […]
Spin to win: How this life insurance company turns healthy habits into a game
{May 26th, 2026} by Allison Aubrey
Many people wake up intending to eat well and exercise. But then the day gets away from them. Feel familiar? Now, one life insurance company is betting that gift cards, prize wheels and fitness streaks can help close that gap. The Vitality program from life insurance company John Hancock rewards policyholders with points for healthy behaviors such […]
Annuity payouts are the highest they’ve been in years. Thanks, inflation.
{May 26th, 2026} by Brett Arends
Six months ago, a 65-year-old woman who retired with $100,000 in savings could secure herself a guaranteed monthly income of $593 for life, an annual payout rate of 7.1%, according to Cannex, an analytics company that reports data on the market for annuities, lifetime income products offered by life insurers. Read at MSN
Michael Book and Greg McRoberts Inducted into Finseca Hall of Fame
{May 26th, 2026} by Finseca
WASHINGTON, May 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Finseca today announced that Michael Book, Founding Partner at Lenox Advisors, and Greg McRoberts, Managing Partner at WestPoint Financial Group, will be honored with the prestigious Finseca Hall of Fame Award at the 2026 Advanced Markets event in Washington, D.C. Book and McRoberts are being inducted into the 2026 Hall of Fame class in recognition […]
SEC Proposes Sweeping Offering Reform — Significant Implications for Registered Closed-End Funds, BDCs and Other Private Wealth Products
{May 26th, 2026} by Kirkland
On May 19, 2026, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed two companion rulemakings that would, if adopted, meaningfully reduce the cost and complexity of conducting registered offerings for all public companies, including closed-end funds that are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (1940 Act), or have elected to be […]
AuguStar Retirement expands annuity platform with launch of StarStream Variable Annuity
{May 20th, 2026} by AuguStar Retirement
CINCINNATI, May 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AuguStar Retirement has expanded its annuity lineup with the launch of StarStream® Variable Annuity, a new solution designed to support retirement income planning for clients with varying goals and timelines. “StarStream reflects our commitment to supporting our clients and financial professionals as a long-term retirement and income planning partner, with a comprehensive […]
Pacific Life Launches New Flagship Variable Universal Life Insurance Product
{May 20th, 2026} by Pacific Life Insurance Company
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Pacific Life Insurance Company announced that it has launched Pacific Admiral VUL 21, a new flagship variable universal life (VUL) insurance product. This VUL is designed for consumers and business owners seeking competitively priced, customizable death benefit protection with cash value growth potential. With an expanded set of variable investment option choices and design […]
MassMutual Expands Wellness Offerings to Help Policyowners Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier Lives
{May 20th, 2026} by MassMutual
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. & BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MassMutual today announced the launch of its Living Well Rider, a value-added benefit automatically included on eligible new whole life insurance policies that gives policyowners access to a suite of wellness tools designed to support long-term physical and mental well-being. The Living Well Rider provides eligible policyowners with access to the following […]
Many Americans Retire Earlier Than Planned—Often Not by Choice—Allianz Life Study Finds
{May 20th, 2026} by Allianz Life
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–While many Americans expect to work longer to strengthen their retirement outlook, the reality is often different. A significant number leave the workforce earlier than planned—often due to circumstances outside their control, according to the 2026 Annual Retirement Study* from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, part of Allianz Life Insurance Company […]
MassMutual turns 175, Marking Generations of Delivering on its Commitments
{May 20th, 2026} by MassMutual
SPRINGFIELD, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MassMutual today marked its 175th anniversary, honoring a legacy built around one idea that has endured since its founding: when people look out for one another, everyone is stronger. Founded on May 15, 1851 in Springfield, Massachusetts by 31 investors who pooled together $100,000 to create a company to help their friends and neighbors protect […]
Long-Term Care Claimant Was Working Full Time in Demolition, Transamerica Says
{May 20th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Private investigators found that a California resident who filed a claim for long-term care benefits with Transamerica was healthy enough to work a demolition job for at least seven hours and to shop on his own at Costco for 30 minutes, Transamerica told the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The insured, […]
BD Fined $100K Over Deferred VA Exchanges
{May 20th, 2026} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has fined a firm $100,000 for failing to supervise recommendations of exchanges of deferred variable annuities, which violated Regulation Best Interest, and for failing to surveil for inappropriate rates of deferred VA exchanges. Read at Think Advisor
AI emerges as the biggest risk for financial leaders in 2026
{May 20th, 2026} by Rayne Morgan
New research from the Society of Actuaries has found insurance and financial services leaders across a range of sectors all named artificial intelligence as the top emerging risk for 2026 and in the years to come. “The study suggests that AI is becoming a core strategic risk. It’s not just this IT sort of question; […]
The fiduciary standard for life insurance is here
{May 20th, 2026} by Frederico Guardia
The Department of Labor officially vacated the Retirement Security Rule on March 10, 2026. This move restores the decades-old “five-part test,” which narrows the circumstances under which financial professionals must act as fiduciaries. While we celebrate this decision as an industry, we would be remiss not to note the mindset change that has occurred: elevated standards […]
Insurers urged to temper expectations with AI pilots
{May 20th, 2026} by Rayne Morgan
While an increasingly popular narrative suggests most artificial intelligence pilots undertaken by companies fail, one insurance industry expert said failure is relative and insurers should temper their expectations accordingly. A 2025 Massachusetts Institute of Technology study found that around 95% of AI pilots fail to demonstrate measurable return on investment. Read at INN
Why seniors fear spending their own retirement wealth
{May 20th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Advisors are running into a new retirement problem: clients are not spending. In fact, new data from Security Benefit shows that two in five financial professionals say 30% or more of their clients spend less than they prudently can in retirement, highlighting a growing “retirement confidence gap.” Read at INN
$150M+ asset sale payout distributed to Greg Lindberg policyholders
{May 20th, 2026} by John Hilton
More than $150 million from the sale of a key asset tied to Greg Lindberg’s insurance empire has been distributed to policyholders who have uncovered claims, according to a new report filed by the court-appointed special master. About 95% of the nearly $158 million distributed to affected policyholders had been deposited as of the close […]
Greg Lindberg asks NC judge for no jail time in bribery, fraud cases
{May 20th, 2026} by John Hilton
Disgraced financier Greg Lindberg is asking a federal judge to sharply reduce his prison time ahead of a consolidated sentencing hearing later this month, citing what his attorneys describe as extensive restitution efforts and cooperation with court-appointed officials. In a sentencing memorandum filed Thursday in federal court, Lindberg’s attorneys requested concurrent 48-month prison sentences in […]
You’re (Almost) Never “Too Old” to Benefit from an Annuity
{May 20th, 2026} by AnnuityAdvantage
Wink’s Moore on the Market: I don’t know that I can agree with this… In my opinion, there most definitely ARE people that are too old for annuities. How many want to keep deferring in their [‘80’s]? How many are going to live long enough to get their principal back in an income annuity, if […]
Equitable-Corebridge merger casts shadow over life insurance earnings
{May 20th, 2026} by John Hilton
As life insurers toast another quarter of strong sales, executives are also eyeing the elephant in the room: a looming Equitable-Corebridge powerhouse. The blockbuster merger, expected to close by the end of 2026, came up during multiple calls this week with Wall Street analysts. Corebridge ($27.4 billion) and Equitable ($23.3 billion) combined for more than $50 […]
/C O R R E C T I O N — Deloitte/
{May 20th, 2026} by Deloitte
In the news release, Deloitte Predicts AI, Stablecoins and Expansion of Private Markets May Reshape Financial Services by 2030, issued 20-May-2026 by Deloitte over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows, with additional details at the end: Deloitte Predicts AI, Stablecoins and Expansion of […]
Manulife Wealth & Asset Management Continues to Build Its AI Leadership and Impact with AI-Powered Tools Enabling Better Advisor and Customer Experiences
{May 20th, 2026} by Manulife Wealth & Asset Management
TORONTO and BOSTON, May 20, 2026 /CNW/ – Manulife Wealth & Asset Management (Manulife WAM) today announced details of three AI-powered sales and advisor enablement tools that streamline routine work, giving advisors and sales teams faster support and clearer insights, so teams can spend more time focused on clients, relationships, and advice that matters. “AI is becoming […]
Trust in Financial Institutions Boosts Retirement Account Sales
{May 20th, 2026} by Allison Bell
The best prospects for annuities and individual retirement accounts may be people who trust insurers and other financial services companies to make good on their promises. Three economists — Maya Haran Rosen, Annamaria Lusardi and Olivia Mitchell — have published a new working paper analyzing the relationship between trust and consumers’ financial behavior. Read at Think Advisor
Annuity-Integrated TDFs Reach Momentum
{May 20th, 2026} by Amanda
Annuity-embedded target-date strategies are gaining ground, as asset managers, regulatory agencies, and plan sponsors show interest in offering guaranteed income in retirement plans. Broader multi-asset portfolios with in-plan annuities surpassed $115 billion, an increase of 150% compared to two years ago, finds new research from Morningstar. Read at 401k
Retirement without guaranteed income streams may mean near-total asset wipeout
{May 20th, 2026} by Steve Randall
Report finds that pension income acts as a financial lifeline for retirees facing late-life shocks and raises urgent questions about the DC-only future. Read at InvestmentNews
Aspida Life and WealthVest Offer a Powerful New Guaranteed Income Product with the WealthLock® Income Builder
{May 14th, 2026} by Aspida
A new fixed index annuity from Aspida Life and WealthVest delivers guaranteed lifetime income, spousal protection, and an enhanced nursing home multiplier to support retirement income needs. BOZEMAN, Mont., May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Aspida Life Insurance Company (“Aspida Life”), a life insurance and annuity company, and WealthVest, a financial services distribution firm, today announced the launch […]
ALIRT Insurance Research: U.S. Life Insurance Industry In Transition
{May 14th, 2026} by ALIRT Insurance Research
ALIRT Insurance Research’s latest industry report, Life Insurance Industry in Transition: 2022–2026, examines the strategic, financial, and regulatory developments reshaping the U.S. life insurance and annuity sector over the past four and a half years. HARTFORD, Conn., May 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ALIRT’s latest white paper details how higher interest rates, record annuity sales, increased reinsurance activity, and the […]
Protective Announces CEO Rich Bielen’s Plans to Retire, Names Paul Wells Next President & CEO
{May 14th, 2026} by Protective Life Corporation
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Protective Life Corporation a U.S. subsidiary of Daiichi Life Group, Inc. (Daiichi Life, TSE:8750), today announced that Rich Bielen, Chief Executive Officer, has shared his plans to retire at the end of 2026. Paul Wells, President & Chief Financial Officer, will succeed Bielen as President & Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2027. Protective also announced […]
Best’s Special Report: While U.S. Life/Annuity Product Growth Moderated in 2025, Registered Indexed-Linked Annuity Product Kept Fast Sales Pace
{May 14th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Registered indexed-linked annuities (RILAs) continued to be one of the fastest growing product segments within the U.S. life insurance industry in 2025, according to a new AM Best report. The Best’s Special Report, “Annuity Premium Growth Moderated in 2025,” notes that interest in RILAs has fueled growth in variable annuities, while premium generated from deferred and […]
Best’s Special Report: US Property/Casualty and Health Insurers Exceed Cost of Capital; Life Insurers Narrowly Mis
{May 14th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The return-on-equity for U.S. property/casualty (P/C) insurers reached a decade high level of 14.97% in 2025, while the cost of equity held relatively steady at 8.18%, according to a new AM Best report. Last year started with an early challenge for P/C insurers as the California wildfires caused extensive damage in January. Fortunately, a relatively […]
AM Best Maintains Under Review With Developing Implications Status for Credit Ratings of TruSpire Retirement Insurance Company
{May 14th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has maintained the under review with developing implications status for the Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb+” (Good) of TruSpire Retirement Insurance Company (TruSpire) (Irving, TX). Malibu Life Holdings Limited announced on Oct. 14, 2025, that it has entered into a definitive agreement to […]
New Empathy and LIMRA Research: The Overlooked Opportunity to Engage the Next Generation After an Insurance Payout
{May 14th, 2026} by Empathy
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Empathy, the technology company transforming how the world plans for and navigates life’s hardest moments, and LIMRA, today announced new research examining how the life insurance claims experience shapes long-term customer relationships. The findings reveal a critical disconnect: while insurers have invested meaningfully in operational improvements, they are missing the opportunity to turn one […]
Corebridge Financial and Equitable Holdings Announce Leadership Team for Combined Company
{May 14th, 2026} by Equitable Holdings, Inc
HOUSTON & NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial (NYSE: CRBG) (“Corebridge”) and Equitable Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EQH) (“Equitable Holdings”) today announced the leadership team for the future combined company, effective upon completion of the previously announced merger. “Together, the complementary offerings and capabilities of Corebridge and Equitable will enhance customer outcomes and drive long-term shareholder value. This […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Prudential Financial, Inc. and Its Life/Health Subsidiaries
{May 14th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “aa-” (Superior) of the life/health insurance subsidiaries of Prudential Financial, Inc. (PFI) (Newark, NJ) [NYSE: PRU], collectively referred to as Prudential. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of “a-” (Excellent) of […]
3 ways AI can help close the gap for women’s insurance coverage
{May 14th, 2026} by Rayne Morgan
esides helping speed up the claims process and generally bringing the insurance practice into the 21st Century, artificial intelligence may also help address a longstanding industry issue: the gender gap in coverage. According to LIMRA, women consistently have had less insurance coverage than men for the last 15 years. Multiple studies conducted over the years have pointed […]
Beyond the S&P 500: The case for RILA diversification
{May 14th, 2026} by Brooke Lacey
For many financial professionals, the S&P 500 has become the default choice when investing client funds in registered index-linked annuities (RILAs). New data from Equitable reveals that diversifying into less understood or potentially more volatile asset classes, like small-caps or emerging markets, can pay off as well. Read at INN
Will the Department of Labor take another shot at a fiduciary rule?
{May 14th, 2026} by John Hilton
The Department of Labor’s recent decision to abandon attempts to extend fiduciary duty and recommit to the longstanding “five-part test” for retirement advice is welcome news for the insurance industry. But is the flirtation with fiduciary dead for good this time? Read at INN
NAIC annuity guidance updates divide insurance and advisory groups
{May 14th, 2026} by John Hilton
Insurance and financial planning groups are clashing over whether and how regulators should expand guidance tied to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ best-interest annuity sales rule. In a pair of comment letters, industry trade groups defended the current framework while the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards argues the model regulation falls short of […]
Ameritas settles with Navy vet in lawsuit over disputed annuity sale
{May 14th, 2026} by John Hilton
Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and its affiliated broker reached a settlement with a retired Navy veteran over a disputed indexed annuity sale. The agreement resolves a lawsuit brought by Andrew and Jennifer Johnson, who alleged wrongdoing regarding the marketing and sale of the financial product. Terms of the settlement were not disclosed. Read at INN
Strong underwriting: what it means for insurers and advisors
{May 14th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Underwriting has always been complex, but the nature of that complexity continues to evolve. “Today, we’re evaluating more dynamic health profiles, increasingly complex financial situations, and a growing volume of data — particularly as structured sources like electronic health records become more widely used,” said Susan Ghalili, senior vice president and chief underwriter at Pacific […]
Finseca CEO: Financial planning creates freedom
{May 14th, 2026} by Finseca
Marc Cadin joined FOX 5 DC to share financial tips, but the conversation ultimately came back to something bigger: planning. Watch the segment.
Nearly Half of Americans Regret Financial Decisions Due to a Lack of Understanding, Experian Research Finds
{May 14th, 2026} by Experian
COSTA MESA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–As Financial Literacy Month comes to a close, new research from Experian highlights a gap in consumers’ understanding of the financial system. According to the research, nearly half (47%) of U.S. adults say they’ve made a financial decision they later regretted because they didn’t fully understand the terms. The research findings underscore the importance […]
Equitable Faces Suit Over Life Policy Beneficiary Change Request
{May 14th, 2026} by Allison Bell
A widow is suing a subsidiary of Equitable Holdings over how it handled a request for a life insurance policy beneficiary change. Koralys Del Mar Ruiz-Calixto said the company, Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company, was slow to help her even though it knew that her husband — Victor Valentin-De Jesús — had a brain tumor. […]
Transamerica Loses Appeal in Annuity Income Payment Case
{May 14th, 2026} by Allison Bell
A three-judge panel at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit has ruled for an annuity owner who wishes a servicer had not started sending her annuity income on the default annuitization date. The panel found that the language in the contract did not let the servicer, Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Co., begin […]
Are Some Annuity Issuers’ Prices Crazy?
{May 14th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Marc Rowan, the co-founder and CEO of Apollo Global Management, shook up big, publicly traded annuity issuers’ earnings calls this week by questioning the wisdom of certain companies that are offering really great deals on individual annuities. Apollo is the parent of Athene, a big annuity issuer and reinsurer. Read at Think Advisor
Goodbye to Corebridge
{May 14th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Marc Costantini, the chief executive officer of Corebridge Financial, and Mark Pearson, the CEO of Equitable Holdings, have been talking to securities analysts this week about how their companies’ pending combination would really work. Corebridge — a Houston-based life and annuity giant that was once owned by American International Group and came to life in 2022 — intends to […]
Widow Wins $1.2M From UBS Over Annuity, Margin Loan
{May 14th, 2026} by Melanie Waddell
UBS Financial Services has been ordered to pay more than $1.2 million for allegations that a Florida broker recommended purchase of a variable annuity with the client’s retirement funds and used margin in the account. The UBS client, Kelly Goldsmith, alleged breach of fiduciary duty; breach of contract; negligence; negligent misrepresentation; omission; common law fraud; […]
Celebrating Flag Day: WoodmenLife Honors America 250 By Presenting U.S. Flags to Communities Across the Country
{May 14th, 2026} by WoodmenLife
OMAHA, Neb., May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — For 80 years, Omaha-based WoodmenLife has presented U.S. flags to schools, community groups, first responders, and communities across the country. Since 1947, WoodmenLife has presented more than 4 million flags, making it one of the largest providers of U.S. flags behind the United States government. In honor of America’s 250th […]
Is $100 billion the new normal for quarterly annuity sales?
{May 14th, 2026} by Leo Almazora
Ten consecutive quarters of $100 billion-plus sales. Read the full story on InvestmentNews. The latest preliminary data release from LIMRA show advisors leaning into RILAs, income annuities and protection strategies as clients put certainty over yield.
College for Financial Planning Offers Two New Certificates
{May 14th, 2026} by Melanie Waddell
The College for Financial Planning is offering two new online certificate programs for career-entry professionals seeking financial services expertise. The programs are built to develop career-ready skills and culminate in a certificate from the college, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Read at Think Advisor
Living benefits: A better way to position life insurance
{May 14th, 2026} by David Paul
For years, life insurance conversations in our industry followed a familiar pattern. They centered on protection, legacy and eventually the death benefit. That approach made sense at the time, but it also created distance. The value was clear, yet it often felt abstract, like something to handle later instead of something tied to decisions being […]
Annuity boom, private capital surge define new life insurance era
{May 14th, 2026} by Kenneth Araullo
The post-2022 rebound in interest rates has reshaped the US life insurance industry in ways that show little sign of reversing, according to a new white paper from ALIRT Insurance Research, which points to record annuity sales, heavier reinsurance use and the deepening footprint of private investment firms and global carriers. Read at Insurance Business […]
Athene Expands Registered Index-Linked Annuity (RILA) Lineup with Launch of Athene Amplify® 3.0
{May 7th, 2026} by Athene
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, May 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Athene, the leading retirement solutions company and subsidiary of Apollo Global Management (NYSE: APO), today announced the launch of Athene Amplify 3.0, a registered index-linked annuity (RILA) designed to expand access to the category. By offering new protection levels and a simplified single-contract structure, Amplify 3.0 […]
Transamerica Introduces New Registered Index-Linked Annuity with Optional Income Features
{May 7th, 2026} by Transamerica
BALTIMORE, May 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Transamerica today introduced TSIA Income, a new registered index-linked annuity (RILA) designed to help individuals create protected lifetime income while remaining connected to market opportunity and maintaining flexibility as retirement needs evolve. As responsibility for retirement income continues to shift to individuals, many Americans are looking for ways to turn savings […]
Knighthead Life Smiles at Sharks, Enters U.S. Fixed Indexed Annuity Market
{May 7th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Some life and annuity issuers are starting to talk about concerns such as fierce competition, squishy investment returns and a need for “discipline.” And some companies, including the ones talking about discipline, are still trying to find a way through all of those hungry, ferocious rival sharks to reach consumers who need protection against the […]
Aspida Life and Market Synergy Group Launch Bitcoin-Linked Index Across Synergy Choice™ Fixed Index Annuity Suite
{May 7th, 2026} by Aspida Life Insurance Company
DURHAM, NC, April 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aspida Life Insurance Company (“Aspida Life”), a life insurance and annuity company, in partnership with Market Synergy Group (MSG), has announced the addition of the BlackRock® U.S. Equity Bitcoin Balanced Risk 10% Index to its Synergy Choice™ Fixed Index Annuity (FIA) product suite. Through an iShares® ETFs component, this new offering […]
Corebridge Financial, Equitable Holdings post Q1 earnings as merger looms
{May 7th, 2026} by John Hilton
Even as Equitable Holdings and Corebridge Financial reported separate first-quarter results Tuesday, analysts focused largely on what lies ahead for the two companies as a powerful combined entity. Corebridge and Equitable announced a March merger to form a $22 billion entity, a deal expected to close by year-end 2026. The partnership of two top-five annuity sellers comes […]
Want To Be A Better Leader? Be A Better Friend
{May 7th, 2026} by J.J. Bowman
Wink’s Moore on the Market: This article is atypical of what you would expect in the insurance business. That said, it should be required reading for all of us; especially those of us that are leaders. Thank you for the well-organized, thoughtful and salient message! This put a smile on my face, J.J. Bowman! -sjm
Small Annuity Decisions, Big Tax Consequences
{May 7th, 2026} by John Stevenson
Wink’s Moore on the Market: John Stevenson taught me something new today, via this article. Case study: A 65-year-old man, with several million dollars invested in the market. He wants reliable income that won’t be affected by the market’s highs and lows. The choices for a solution: Single Premium Immediate Annuity (SPIA) or indexed annuity […]
A new opportunity for advisors: Younger indexed annuity buyers
{May 7th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Wink’s Moore on the Market: A new opportunity for advisors: Younger indexed annuity buyers? “Nationwide‘s latest Advisor Authority study found that 63% of millennials and 54% of Gen Xers are more likely to put part of their portfolio in an annuity or other guaranteed income solution.” Well, it must be the “guaranteed income solution” that […]
New York insurance agent pleads guilty to running $50 million Ponzi
{May 7th, 2026} by Bruce Kelly
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Curiously specific article…about a bad actor in the insurance profession. I just don’t get how people can have a clear conscience, knowing that others will lose their life savings because of your actions. -sjm ……………………………………………………….. An upstate New York tax preparer and insurance agent on Tuesday pleaded guilty to […]
5 Things a Decision Scientist’s Team Says About Annuities
{May 7th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Wink’s Moore on the Market: An entire team of super smart people published a working paper on income planning research. My friends Mo. Milevsky and Tamiko Toland, along with Susan (Xin) Shu, Jeff Brown, Abigail Hurwitz and Olivia S Mitchell collaborated on the piece. The takeaway on this article, about the working paper- “Present annuities […]
Equitable Holdings Reports First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Equitable Holdings, Inc
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Equitable Holdings, Inc. (“Equitable Holdings”, “Holdings”, or the “Company”) (NYSE: EQH) today announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. “We reported solid first quarter results with Non-GAAP operating earnings per share of $1.62, or $1.68 excluding notable items, up 25% from the prior year quarter. Within our businesses, we […]
Jackson Announces Strong First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Jackson Financial Inc.
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN) (Jackson®) today announced its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. First Quarter 2026 Key Highlights Retail annuity sales1 of $5.3 billion in the first quarter of 2026, up 31% from the first quarter of 2025, reflecting continued strong demand across our product suite Variable annuity sales1 of […]
Corebridge Financial Announces First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Corebridge Financial, Inc
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial, Inc. (“Corebridge” or the “Company”) (NYSE: CRBG) today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. “Corebridge delivered strong financial results in the first quarter,” said Marc Costantini, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Earnings per share and return on equity both improved year over year. This, alongside consistent organic […]
Prudential Financial, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Prudential Financial, Inc.
NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) today reported first quarter 2026 results. Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. of $597 million or $1.68 per Common share versus net income of $707 million or $1.96 per share for the year-ago quarter. After-tax adjusted operating income of $1.278 billion or $3.61 per Common share versus […]
FNF Reports First Quarter 2026 Financial Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE:FNF) (FNF or the Company), 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, publicly traded subsidiary F&G Annuities & […]
Brighthouse Financial Announces First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Brighthouse Financial, Inc
CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (“Brighthouse Financial” or the “company”) (Nasdaq: BHF) announced today its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. First Quarter 2026 Results The company reported a net loss available to shareholders of $792 million in the first quarter of 2026, or $13.82 per diluted share, compared with a […]
F&G Annuities & Life Reports First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by F&G Annuities & Life, Inc.
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — F&G Annuities & Life, Inc. (NYSE: FG) (F&G or the Company) a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients, today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. Net earnings attributable to common shareholders for the first quarter of $244 million, […]
CNO Financial Group Reports First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by CNO Financial Group, Inc.
CARMEL, Ind., April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CNO Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: CNO) today reported its first quarter 2026 financial results: First quarter performance reflects disciplined execution and the strength of our diversified products and distribution. Net income was $38 million, or $0.39 per diluted share, and net operating income(1) was $101 million, or $1.05 per diluted share. Return […]
Lincoln Financial Reports 2026 First Quarter Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. Sustained progress against strategic and financial objectives drove solid first quarter performance. First quarter net loss available to common stockholders was $(211) million, or $(1.10) per diluted share. First quarter adjusted operating income available to common stockholders […]
Kansas City Life Announces First Quarter 2026 Results
{May 7th, 2026} by Kansas City Life Insurance Company
KANSAS CITY, Mo., May 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Kansas City Life Insurance Company recorded net income of $9.6 million or $0.99 per share in the first quarter of 2026, up from net income of $4.2 million or $0.43 per share in the first quarter of 2025. The increase in net income in the first quarter of 2026 […]
Short sellers’ bets on life insurance stocks soar as private credit concerns grow
{May 7th, 2026} by Nell Mackenzie
LONDON, April 27 (Reuters) – Short sellers’ bets against U.S. life insurance stocks more than doubled in the past year to over $5 billion, a Reuters analysis of ORTEX data shows, a move that analysts say in part reflects concerns about exposure to the opaque private credit sector. Jitters about private credit – lending to companies […]
TIAA Institute: Financial Advice Changes How People Manage Money, Improving Financial Habits and Confidence
{May 6th, 2026} by TIAA Institute
NEW YORK, May 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The TIAA Institute’s “The Value of Financial Advice” report released today finds that professional financial guidance is associated with improved financial behaviors, greater confidence, and substantially higher wealth accumulation across all income levels and life stages. Advised Households Report Significantly Greater Wealth Among those surveyed, advised households report an average […]
The longevity gap: Americans anticipate living longer but are falling behind on preparedness
{May 6th, 2026} by Guardian
NEW YORK, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As lifespans continue to grow longer, Americans are increasingly feeling unprepared for the road ahead, according to the 2026 Mind, Body, and Wallet® report from The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian). Yet, with thoughtful planning and purposeful actions at any stage of life, individuals can improve their mental, physical, and […]
Bulletin Board: RIJ
{May 6th, 2026} by Editorial Staff
Knighthead, which has a Cayman Islands reinsurer, enters U.S. FIA market; Morningstar analyzes Trump’s universal plan coverage proposal; Transamerica’s new RILA has an income feature; iCapital’s platform to add ‘Claude’; ShareBuilder 401k now has a Roth version for sole proprietors. Read at RIJ
Former American Equity CEO partners with Agam Capital
{May 6th, 2026} by Editorial Staff
Agam Capital, a global leader in insurance-related asset and liability analytics, and 1823 Partners (US) LLC, a differentiated asset management firm focused on insurance-first investment strategies, have formed a partnership to serve global insurance companies. Read at RIJ
Bermuda Short-Sellers
{May 6th, 2026} by Kerry Pechter
The value of short positions on U.S. life insurance stocks has more than doubled to over $5 billion in the past year, according to an analysis of ORTEX data by Reuters. Read at RIJ
The next step for AI in insurance — partnerships to scale
{May 6th, 2026} by Rayne Morgan
While many insurance providers have begun adopting artificial intelligence, others are already racing ahead to the next stage of scaling solutions — a stage that could be marked by a trend of strategic partnerships, according to Jodie Wallis, global chief AI officer, Manulife. Some insurance companies have been hesitant to adopt AI, due to concerns […]
The Standard Adds Improved Portability to APEX Stable Value Products
{May 6th, 2026} by The Standard
PORTLAND, Ore.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Standard Insurance Company (The Standard) has added the APEX Select Funds to its APEX Series. APEX Select includes APEX Select Capital Preservation, a market value adjustment product, and APEX Select Guaranteed Rate, a 12-month put product. These funds are available to both The Standard’s recordkeeping clients and investment-only clients using third-party platforms. These new […]
AIG to sell remaining shares in Corebridge Financial
{May 6th, 2026} by American International Group, Inc.
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) today announced that it has agreed to sell approximately 25 million shares of common stock of Corebridge Financial, Inc. (NYSE: CRBG), representing its remaining stake in the company. The sale, which is expected to close on May 7, will result in net proceeds to AIG of approximately […]
American Life Expands into Wyoming and Mississippi Markets
{May 6th, 2026} by American Life
LINCOLN, Neb., May 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — American Life & Security Corp., a growing carrier in the annuity and retirement space, today announced it has expanded to Wyoming and Mississippi. Residents in Wyoming will now have access to the full suite of flexible retirement income products, and Mississippi residents will have access to American Classic and American Select, with […]
Life insurance premium jumps 10% in 1Q
{May 6th, 2026} by Press Release
WINDSOR, Conn., May 6, 2026 —Total U.S. individual life insurance new annualized premium plus excess jumped 10% year over year to $4.5 billion in the first quarter of 2026, according to LIMRA’s preliminary U.S. Life Insurance Sales Survey. The total number of policies sold also improved 9% in the first quarter. “Following record sales in […]
How annuities can help small-business owners achieve retirement security
{May 6th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Owning a small business is rewarding, but it’s also risky because unpredictable income is almost inevitable. That’s why annuities can be invaluable. Think of them as personal pension plans for small-business owners and entrepreneurs. Read at INN
Morgan Stanley Launches FA Education Platform
{May 6th, 2026} by Katie Balevic
Morgan Stanley Investment Management has polished its educational offerings for financial advisors, unveiling a new education platform to help advisors engage with the wealth of knowledge available to them. Read at FA IQ
When Selling Annuities Becomes Investment Advice: A Guide for Insurance Providers
{May 6th, 2026} by Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C.
For insurance companies and agents, the distinction between selling annuities and providing investment advice can blur unexpectedly. When annuity sales involve discussions about a client’s securities portfolio or recommendations to liquidate investments to fund purchases, agents may inadvertently trigger investment adviser registration requirements. Understanding the regulatory boundaries is essential for insurance providers selling annuities. Approximately […]
Global Atlantic’s Parent Expects Annuity Competition to Ease
{May 6th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Executives at KKR, the investment giant that owns Global Atlantic, think the U.S. individual annuity market looked rough in the first quarter but should improve soon. KKR “continued to see increased levels of competition” in the retail annuity market during the quarter, Robert Lewin, the company’s chief financial officer, said during a conference call with […]
Trump to launch ‘TrumpIRA.gov’ in push to expand retirement access
{May 6th, 2026} by Hadriana Lowenkron
President Donald Trump will sign an executive order aimed at expanding access to retirement plans for workers whose employers don’t offer that benefit, according to a White House official, a bid to refocus the administration’s messaging on economic issues. The White House official spoke on condition of anonymity to detail the order before the public […]
Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Expands Retirement-Savings Access for American Workers by Establishing TrumpIRA.gov
{May 6th, 2026} by The White House
Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to increase access to high-quality, low-cost Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), and up to $1,000 in Federal matching contributions, to strengthen the financial security of American workers. Read at Whitehouse.gov
Rethinking retirement income: The role of annuity laddering
{May 6th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
For some clients, annuity laddering can be a true game changer. This strategy involves purchasing multiple annuities with staggered start dates, allowing individuals to access or “turn on” income at different phases of retirement. Read at INN
The case for DTC/agent hybridization
{May 6th, 2026} by Chris Taylor
Life and annuity carrier executives are concerned about a critical issue – the increasing cost of customer acquisition, driven in part by the commission structure of products sold through third-party distribution. A heavy reliance on TPD is unavoidable – career agency/captive agent models have continued to lose overall market share. And the DTC channel has […]
Americans Say They’re Feeling Prosperous, Defying Economic, Market, and Political Pessimism – According to Northwestern Mutual’s Inaugural Personal Prosperity Index
{May 6th, 2026} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Despite waning confidence in the U.S. economy, stock market, and the state of politics, a strong majority of Americans say their personal prosperity has actually increased or held steady over the past six months. Why? Because Americans say their own mental health, physical health, and financial health are more significant contributors […]
Ameritas announces newly promoted officers
{May 6th, 2026} by Ameritas
LINCOLN, Neb., May 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ameritas Chief Executive Officer Bob Jurgensmeier announces the following officer promotions. April Behrend is the new vice president, actuarial, individual. She was previously actuarial director, individual. Behrend holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and actuarial science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She is a fellow of the Society of […]
Nashville, Honky Tonks, and Private Credit
{May 6th, 2026} by Kerry Pechter
On a warm, late-April afternoon, I wandered the historic streets of Nashville, thinking about “alternative assets” in life insurance investment portfolios and 401(k) plans. The honky-tonks were open. Light beer flowed from a hundred taps. Country-rock spilled muddily from open windows onto sidewalks dense with heartland tourists. Read at RIJ
Best’s Special Report: Strong Annuity Market Growth Shifting Life/Annuity Insurers’ Risk Profiles
{May 6th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Strong U.S. annuity sales have shifted the reserve profile for many U.S. life/annuity companies, with asset risk forming a greater share of required capital composition in AM Best’s capital model, Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), and leading to weaker scores for some life/annuity companies. At the same time, according to a new report, BCAR […]
Transamerica agrees to $57M settlement in cost-of-insurance lawsuit
{May 6th, 2026} by John Hilton
A federal judge in Iowa has granted preliminary approval to a proposed class-action settlement to resolve accusations that Transamerica Life Insurance Co. improperly increased cost-of-insurance charges on certain life insurance policies in 2022 and 2023. The agreement clears the way for policyholders to be notified and for a final approval hearing later this year. Although […]
Nearly Half of Middle-Class Americans Lack Confidence They Will Have Enough Retirement Savings, Gen X and Millennials are the Least Confident, ACLI Finds
{May 5th, 2026} by ACLI
WASHINGTON – The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) today released the latest Financial Resilience Index and accompanying survey, which measures middle-class households’ ability to manage financial challenges and plan for a stable future. The survey, conducted by YouGov, shows that middle-class retirement preparedness may be at a crossroads, especially among Americans nearing retirement age. Gen […]
Life insurance sales surge 7% in 2025, but the work isn’t over
{May 5th, 2026} by Brooke Lacey
Since the 2020 pandemic, life insurance sales have surged. In 2025, policy counts jumped 7% year over year, but there remains work to be done, LIMRA researchers say. “Despite these record sales, we haven’t seen a meaningful decline in the life insurance needs gap,” Bryan Hodgens, head of LIMRA research, said during a recent LinkedIn […]
Sagicor Life Insurance Company Appoints Eric Sandberg as President
{April 30th, 2026} by Sagicor Life Insurance Company
TAMPA, Fla., April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sagicor Life Insurance Company announced today that Eric Sandberg has joined the company as President. Mr. Sandberg will work closely with the company’s leadership team to maintain alignment on strategic priorities and support disciplined execution as the business scales. “We are excited to welcome Eric to the Sagicor team. This […]
The Standard and Ignite Partners Announce Launch of Thrive Plus Fixed Indexed Annuity
{April 30th, 2026} by The Standard
PORTLAND, Ore.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Standard Insurance Company (The Standard) and Ignite Partners today announced the launch of Thrive Plus Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA). This next-generation accumulation-focused FIA is designed to help people pre- and post-retirement accumulate more wealth, protect what matters and plan confidently for the future. The launch represents a strategic collaboration between The Standard — a […]
Fear of outliving savings hits new high as retirement anxiety deepens
{April 30th, 2026} by Steve Randall
Wink’s Moore on the Market: It’s not just me declaring this! Two-thirds of Americans now fear running out of money more than death, an Allianz study shows. I wonder what percentage of the population knows that annuities EXIST, much less that an annuity can help address that fear?- sjm ………………………………………………………. Americans are increasingly uneasy […]
Retirees are thinking of annuities the wrong way — and it may trip them up, advisors say
{April 30th, 2026} by Greg Iacurci
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Scott Witt is on-the-money in his observation of annuities: “Americans have a hard time embracing annuities as a form of [longevity] insurance, and they keep thinking about it as an investment.” My observation is that a large portion of financial planners compare annuities to investments. It seems that this may […]
Iowa widow claims premium-financed IUL plan jeopardized family farm
{April 30th, 2026} by John Hilton
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Man, Pacific Life just cannot catch a break! This time, in my back yard. Here’s the latest lawsuit, where Ameritas is also named as a defendant. Premium financing cases CAN and DO go wrong. In this case, a widow may loose the farmland that she and her late husband owned. […]
North Carolina court finally sets sentencing date for Greg Lindberg
{April 30th, 2026} by Jamie Johnson
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Forgive my stream of consciousness here. So Greg Lindberg, a la Colorado Bankers Life, jumped into the life insurance startup game in 06/27/2019. This is about nine years after I first began seeing PE-backed insurance companies entering the annuity space; focused on gaining traction with an aggressive MYGA rate, and […]
Aspida Life and Market Synergy Group Launch Bitcoin-Linked Index Across Synergy Choice™ Fixed Index Annuity Suite
{April 30th, 2026} by Aspida
DURHAM, NC, April 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aspida Life Insurance Company (“Aspida Life”), a life insurance and annuity company, in partnership with Market Synergy Group (MSG), has announced the addition of the BlackRock® U.S. Equity Bitcoin Balanced Risk 10% Index to its Synergy Choice™ Fixed Index Annuity (FIA) product suite. Through an iShares® ETFs component, this new offering […]
FACC and DOL enter stipulation to dismiss 2020 guidance lawsuit
{April 30th, 2026} by Staff Reports
The Federation of Americans for Consumer Choice has dropped its lawsuit against the Department of Labor after the agency withdrew guidance at the center of the dispute, ending a four-year legal challenge over fiduciary standards. The group, known as FACC, and the Labor Department filed a stipulation late last week to dismiss the case without […]
Redefining life insurance for a new era of trust and protection
{April 30th, 2026} by Mehran Assadi
Life insurance has existed in the U.S. for generations, but the dynamics around purchasing it are changing. Economic uncertainty, shifting demographics, industry innovation and evolving consumer expectations are reshaping how people think about financial security and protection. Read at INN
Insurance Group Drops DOL Rollover Advice Suit
{April 30th, 2026} by Melanie Waddell
The Federation of Americans for Consumer Choice has dropped its lawsuit against the Labor Department challenging the agency’s guidance issued in 2020 on who is considered a fiduciary when giving rollover advice. The FACC lawsuit pending against Labor in a Texas federal court, which challenged the 2020 fiduciary guidance stating that one-time rollover advice was fiduciary advice, […]
