Transamerica’s Dutch Parent to Move Headquarters to U.S. by 2028
{December 23rd, 2025} by Allison Bell
Aegon, the parent of Transamerica, wants to move its headquarters to the United States, from the Netherlands, by Jan. 1, 2028. The life insurer, retirement plan services provider and asset manager also wants to move its official corporate home to Delaware, from Bermuda, and ramp up U.S. life insurance, annuity and retirement plan sales. Read […]
Strong Technical Demand for Credit
{December 23rd, 2025} by Torsten Slok
When interest rates went up, annuity sales more than doubled, see chart below. The strong demand for annuities continues to generate strong technical demand for credit. Read at Apollo Academy Wink’s Moore on the Market: This hit my Google alerts this week. If you are wondering how annuity sales doubled after The Fed raised […]
Annexus and Athene Announce Major Index Portfolio Enhancements to BCA 2.0 Suite of Fixed Indexed Annuities
{December 23rd, 2025} by Annexus
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. and WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, Dec. 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Annexus, a leading designer of innovative retirement solutions, and Athene, a leading provider of fixed indexed annuities (FIAs), have announced several major enhancements to the award-winning Athene® BCA® 2.0 Suite of FIAs. The update introduces the S&P 500® Distance Stabilizer TCA Index – the first […]
5 Insurers That Sold the Most Indexed Universal Life Policies in Q3
{December 23rd, 2025} by Allison Bell
Wink recently published its U.S. individual life insurance sales report for the third quarter of 2025. Sales of all individual life products rose 3.2% from the total recorded in the third quarter of 2024, to $2.8 billion. Sales of one closely watched product, indexed universal life policies, increased 2.6%, year over year, to $768 million. […]
Waldeck to Succeed Feeney as Head of Prudential’s U.S. Businesses
{December 23rd, 2025} by Allison Bell
Prudential Financial has named Phil Waldeck to be head of its U.S. businesses, effective Feb. 2, 2026. Waldeck will succeed Caroline Feeney, who has been global head of retirement and insurance. Read on Think Advisor Wink’s Moore on the Market: Guess who is going to be in charge of Prudential Financial‘s U.S. businesses? Phil Waldeck has […]
Mount Logan Capital Inc. Initiates Shareholder Record Search relating to expected $15 Million Tender Offer
{December 23rd, 2025} by Mount Logan Capital
NEW YORK, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mount Logan Capital Inc. (Nasdaq: MLCI) (“Mount Logan”, “MLCI”, or the “Company”) today announced it has initiated the steps necessary to commence the tender offer to repurchase $15 million of Mount Logan’s common stock. Ted Goldthorpe, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Mount Logan, said, “We appreciate […]
SPG Announces Leadership Appointments Within Life & Annuity Division
{December 23rd, 2025} by Specialty Program Group
CHICAGO, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AgencyONE, a division of Specialty Program Group LLC (SPG), a leading operator of specialty insurance brokerage, is pleased to announce that effective January 1, 2026, Gonzalo M. Garcia, CLU, will assume the newly created role of Chief Advanced Markets Officer within SPG’s Life & Annuity division. This leadership transition supports SPG’s […]
Fidelity’s 17th Annual Resolutions Study: Americans Preparing for a Year of ‘Planning With Purpose’
{December 23rd, 2025} by Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–According to Fidelity Investments®’ 2026 New Year’s Financial Resolutions study, Americans are preparing for a year of “planning with purpose.” This focused, intentional approach to financial planning appears to be part of a resolution revolution: 64% of respondents are considering a financial resolution for 2026, compared with 56% who reported having a financial resolution in […]
Consumer group calls on life insurers to improve flexible premium policy practices
{December 23rd, 2025} by Brooke Lacey
The Life Insurance Consumer Advocacy Center (LICAC) is asking life insurance companies and agents to improve communication and transparency practices regarding flexible premium policies. Flexible premium policies are part of universal life policies. Regulations require that whatever a consumer pays into a policy be referred to as a ‘premium,’ regardless of how the amount was […]
The 2025-2026 risk agenda for insurers
{December 23rd, 2025} by Paige Waters
The insurance regulatory and risk landscape was demanding in 2025 — and all signs point to 2026 being even more complex. Across all lines of insurance, insurers are being pulled in two directions at once: Innovate faster, and Tighten controls and costs under intensifying regulatory, geopolitical and economic pressure. Read at INN
Product understanding will drive the future of insurance
{December 23rd, 2025} by Chris Taylor
As product sales continue to be sold through independent channels, carriers are increasingly reliant on distributors to push a broader portfolio of product offerings. Increased reliance on third-party distributors is nothing new, but the implications go beyond product design and commissions. Read at INN
Integrity Marketing Group leans into DEI, honored by Newsweek
{December 23rd, 2025} by John Hilton
In a political climate that has moved decidedly away from diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, Integrity Marketing Group is leaning into DEI. A large-scale distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management solutions and retirement planning, Integrity employs about 6,000 employees. It was recently honored by Newsweek as one of the top workplaces in […]
Nearly Half of Americans More Stressed Heading into 2026, Allianz Life Study Finds
{December 16th, 2025} by Allianz
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Nearly half of Americans say they are more stressed heading into 2026 than they were at the beginning of 2025, according to the 2026 New Year’s Resolutions Study* from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, part of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). At the end of 2025, 48% […]
Guardian introduces two new Crediting Strategies to Guardian MarketPerform®, designed to enhance clients’ financial wellness
{December 16th, 2025} by Guardian Life
New York, N.Y.—Dec. 9, 2025—The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) has announced the addition of two new Crediting Strategies to Guardian MarketPerform®—Step-Up Trigger Rate and Cap with Participation and Spread strategies. The company’s registered index-linked annuity (RILA) now offers clients the flexibility to choose from a total of three Crediting Strategies. Learn more […]
Lincoln Financial Introduces First Capital Group ETF Strategy for Fixed Indexed Annuities
{December 16th, 2025} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today introduced the first Capital Group ETF indexed account option for fixed indexed annuities (FIA) with the launch of the 1 Year Capital Group Dividend Value (CGDV) ETF Participation account. Lincoln OptiBlend® is the only FIA in the market to offer an account that tracks the performance of CGDV, giving investors access […]
Avocet Partners Launches with $500 Million Equity Commitment from Oaktree and Lane42
{December 16th, 2025} by Avocet Partners
NEW YORK, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Avocet Partners (“Avocet” or the “Company”) today announced its launch as a new insurance-focused investment and operating platform backed by $500 million of committed equity capital from funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. (“Oaktree”) and Lane42 Investment Partners, LLC (“Lane42”). Led by an experienced founding team of operators with a proven track record of building, […]
Life insurance and annuities: Reassuring ‘tired’ clients in 2026
{December 16th, 2025} by Mike Mathweg
When people ask me what I see for life insurance and annuities in 2026, I always start here: Clients are tired. They’re tired of drama in the headlines, tired of volatility and tired of feeling as though their financial future is riding on whoever wins the next election or what happens with the next round […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Manulife Financial Corporation and Its Subsidiaries
{December 16th, 2025} 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 ICRs) of “aa-” (Superior) of the life/health (L/H) insurance subsidiaries of Manulife Financial Corporation (MFC) (Toronto, Canada) [NYSE: MFC]. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of “a-” (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issue Credit […]
Best’s Review Looks at New Actuarial Guideline, New Challenges
{December 16th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–In its December issue, Best’s Review examines the impact of Actuarial Guideline 55, which was adopted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) earlier this year. According to the NAIC, “the goal of this guideline is to enhance reserve adequacy requirements for life insurance companies by requiring that asset adequacy analysis use a cash […]
Knighthead Life’s “A-” (Excellent) Financial Strength Rating Affirmed by A.M. Best
{December 16th, 2025} by Knighthead Annuity
CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) of Knighthead Life (the brand name for Merit Life Insurance Co.) with a stable outlook. Knighthead Life is part of Knighthead Insurance Group, a leading global provider of retirement products and solutions. The affirmation reflects Knighthead Life’s strong capital position and financial […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Pacific LifeCorp and Its Subsidiaries
{December 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 (Long-Term ICR) of “aa” (Superior) of Pacific Life Insurance Company and Pacific Life & Annuity Company (collectively referred to as Pacific Life Group). Both companies are headquartered in Newport Beach, CA. Additionally, AM Best has affirmed the […]
Best’s Special Report: U.S. Life/Annuity Industry Records 13.8% Net Income Increase in Nine-Month 2025 Period
{December 16th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The U.S. life/annuity industry reported a 13.8% increase in net income during the first nine months of 2025 compared with the same prior-year period, driven in part by an 8.1% increase in net investment income, according to a new AM Best report. This financial review is detailed in a new Best’s Special Report, “First Look: Nine-Month […]
Integrity’s Proprietary Technology Platform Bolsters The Katz Agency’s Commitment to Agent Success
{December 16th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, Dec. 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 The Katz Agency, an independent marketing organization based in Wilmington, North Carolina, and led by Adam and Beth Katz. Financial details of the transaction were not […]
TIAA Third Largest and Fastest Growing 529 Plan Manager in the U.S.
{December 16th, 2025} by TIAA
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TIAA, program manager of 529 education savings plans, today announced that it is the third largest and fastest growing provider by assets over the past 5-year period.1. With over $67 billion in assets under management, the firm supports more than 2 million accounts through ten state-sponsored 529 plans.1 One in four Americans […]
TIAA Wealth Management Unveils Rebrand Expanding Access to Financial Advice
{December 16th, 2025} by TIAA
NEW YORK, Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TIAA Wealth Management, a division of TIAA, today unveiled a new brand positioning and campaign, ‘Invest in Your Worth,’ marking how financial guidance is delivered to professionals who have built substantial retirement savings yet may not believe financial advice is for them. “Nearly half of Americans are under-saved for retirement. The […]
5 Reasons $38T of Clients’ Life, Pension and Annuity Cash Could Just Rot
{December 16th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A consumer advocate is talking to state insurance regulators about a grave threat to the performance of life insurance policies, pensions and individual annuity contracts: the possibility that the consumers and their beneficiaries will never claim the benefits they’re owed, and that the product providers will never pay out the promised benefits. Richard Weber, the […]
The Great LinkedIn Annuity Comp Battle of 2025
{December 16th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A new round of annuity compensation tug-of-war started recently on LinkedIn. David Lau, the chief executive officer of DPL Financial Partners, a firm that connects RIAs with fee-based annuities, talked about the appeal of fee-based annuities for RIAs at a recent AdvisorHub conference. He then put the annuity compensation debate rope in play by promoting an […]
Securing Retirement Against Cognitive Decline
{December 16th, 2025} by Corey Walther
As the United States population ages, a growing group of Americans is now at risk for cognitive decline. The increasing prevalence of cognitive decline is a risk to the retirement strategies for both those affected and their caregivers. Just like inflation or market volatility, the effect of cognitive decline should not be underestimated or unaccounted […]
New York Life continues to close in on Athene; annuity sales up 50%
{December 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
New York Life sold 50% more annuities through three quarters than in 2024, LIMRA reported in its updated sales rankings. The rankings show New York Life nipping at the heels of perennial sales leader Athene Annuity & Life with $24.8 billion in sales. Athene sold $26.8 billion worth of annuities through Q3, a 4.3% decrease […]
LTC riders: More education is needed, NAIFA president says
{December 16th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Carriers must do a better job of educating advisors and consumers about long-term care riders on life insurance policies. That was one of the suggestions that Christopher Gandy, president of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, made to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Senior Issues Task Force at its fall meeting. Gandy […]
Product understanding will drive the future of insurance
{December 16th, 2025} by Chris Taylor
As product sales continue to be sold through independent channels, carriers are increasingly reliant on distributors to push a broader portfolio of product offerings. Increased reliance on third-party distributors is nothing new, but the implications go beyond product design and commissions. The increased reliance on independent channels suggests that distributors have a greater role to […]
NAIC’s 2026 AI evaluation pilot moves ahead as industry balks
{December 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
It will take more drafts to get an AI system evaluation tool to the finish line, but state insurance regulators are committed to kicking off a pilot program in 2026 to test insurers’ use of artificial intelligence. Still, the project is being heavily criticized by industry trade groups. Ten insurance companies are set to participate […]
Iowa defends Athene pension risk transfer deal in Lockheed Martin lawsuit
{December 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird submitted a brief Wednesday in support of Lockheed Martin Corp. in a lawsuit over its choice of Athene Annuity and Life Co. in a pension risk transfer deal. The brief, joined by attorneys general in nine additional states, equates the lawsuit claims as an attack on the efficacy of the […]
NAIC counters climate impacts with new working groups, risk dashboard
{December 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is retooling efforts to improve climate change modeling and be better prepared for its impacts on the insurance industry. That effort includes new charges for 2026 and a newly streamlined workflow. The NAIC decided to restructure and consolidate the existing Climate and Resiliency Task Force, the Catastrophe Insurance […]
Insurance Compact warns NAIC some annuity designs ‘quite complicated’
{December 16th, 2025} by John Hilton
In one product trend, regulators are seeing more guaranteed living withdrawal benefits attached to non-variable annuities. And those products are “quite complicated,” said Katie Campbell, an actuary with the Interstate Insurance Product Regulation Commission. Read at INN Wink’s Moore on the Market: Random thoughts on an INN article: Katie Campbell, an actuary who works […]
ACLI urges Congress to mandate annuity options in 401(k) plans
{December 16th, 2025} by Kenneth Araullo
The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) is calling on US lawmakers to back a set of federal policy changes aimed at expanding access to annuities in workplace retirement plans. The industry group says the measures would help more savers convert defined contribution balances into guaranteed income in retirement. Read at Insurance Business Mag
Des Moines’ EMC Insurance selling its life insurance division
{December 9th, 2025} by Kevin Baskins
EMC Insurance is selling its ownership interest in EMC National Life Insurance Co. to Avocet Partners, including its interest in EMC National Life Mutual Holding Co. The sale price was not disclosed. EMC Life had $15.3 billion of life insurance in force as of EMC Insurance’s 2024 annual report. It will undergo an unspecified change […]
Hildene Capital Management Announces Purchase Agreement to Acquire Annuity Provider SILAC
{December 9th, 2025} by Hildene Capital Management
STAMFORD, Conn. & CARMEL, Ind.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Hildene Capital Management, LLC (together with its affiliates, “Hildene”), an $18+ billion credit-focused alternative asset manager, today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire SILAC, Inc., the parent company of SILAC Insurance Company (“SILAC”), a leading provider of fixed and fixed indexed annuity products in the U.S. SILAC […]
NexAnnuity Announces the Launch of NexCompounder Fixed Index Annuity–A Modern Solution Designed to Assist with Retirement Savings
{December 9th, 2025} by NexAnnuity
DALLAS, Dec. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NexAnnuity announced the launch of the NexCompounder Fixed Index Annuity (FIA), designed to help individuals take their retirements to the next level with growth potential, principal protection, and tax-deferred accumulation. A Flexible Approach to Retirement Savings The NexCompounder FIA is engineered for policyholders/investors seeking both growth and protection. With a minimum initial premium […]
Gen X Underestimated Retirement. Now, They’re Not Sure They Can Catch Up
{December 9th, 2025} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Dec. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Suddenly at the doorstep of retirement, Gen X investors (aged 45-60) are at a crossroads. Despite their proximity to retirement, the prospect of exiting the workforce has largely ‘snuck up’ on this cohort, according to a new Advisor Authority study, powered by the Nationwide Retirement Institute. In fact, six in ten (61%) non-retired Gen […]
Jefferies to Acquire 50% Interest in Hildene Holding Company, Expanding Strategic Relationship that Began in 2022
{December 9th, 2025} by Jeffries Financial Group Inc
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jefferies Financial Group Inc. (NYSE: JEF) (“Jefferies”) announced today it is acquiring a 50% interest in Hildene Holding Company, LLC, the parent of Hildene Capital Management, LLC and its affiliates (“Hildene”), a credit-focused asset manager with over $18 billion of assets under management for a broad range of clients in hedge fund, separately […]
Sammons Financial Group names Rob TeKolste as President to Advance 2030 Growth Strategy
{December 9th, 2025} by Sammons Financial Group
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sammons Financial Group today announced a strategic evolution of its leadership team and structure to advance the company’s plans for growth. Effective January 1, 2026, industry veteran Rob TeKolste will assume the role President, Sammons Financial Group, reporting to the company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Esfand Dinshaw. In his new role, TeKolste will […]
Symetra and Insured Retirement Institute Unveil New Report Examining the State of Allyship in Financial Services
{December 9th, 2025} by Symetra
BELLEVUE, Wash. & WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Symetra and Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) have partnered on a new report focused on more clearly understanding the state of allyship in the financial services industry. “Allyship: A Commitment to Inclusion, Equity, and Opportunity” examines the core principles of allyship, particularly as it pertains to women in the workplace. The report looks at […]
Caught wrong-footed, most Gen Xers now feel uneasy on retirement
{December 9th, 2025} by Leo Almazora
Six in 10 non-retired Gen Xers are just now realizing the urgency to get ready, with an even more overwhelming majority seeing soaring living costs as a barrier to a comfortable retirement. Read at InvestmentNews
Brookfield, Qatar team up on $20 billion AI investment venture
{December 9th, 2025} by Nicolas Parasie and Dinesh Nair
Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. and Qatar Investment Authority are teaming up on a $20 billion venture to invest in artificial-intelligence infrastructure, underscoring the escalating regional race for dominance in the sector. Read at InvestmentNews
State Farm Sued Over Policies Backed by Distressed Insurer PHL
{December 9th, 2025} by Alexandre Rajbhandari
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. faces a lawsuit accusing it of fraud and unjust enrichment for selling products from PHL Variable Insurance Co., which authorities say has a $2.2 billion capital shortfall that left policyholders with less-than-promised payouts. Read at Insurance Journal Wink’s Moore on the Market: PHL Variable Insurance Co contract holders […]
Hildene Capital Management to acquire SILAC for $550m
{December 9th, 2025} by Beth Musselwhite
Hildene Capital Management, LLC, a credit-focused alternative asset manager, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire SILAC, Inc., the parent company of SILAC Insurance Company. Founded in 1935, SILAC provides fixed and fixed indexed annuity products in the U.S. Headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, the company operates across 48 states and the District of Columbia. Read […]
Removing barriers to annuity adoption in 2026
{December 9th, 2025} by Rich Romano
ith 2026 on the horizon, the insurance sector is confronting a landscape defined by market volatility, demographic pressure and a renewed appetite for guaranteed income. These forces are converging to elevate variable annuities as a central tool for advisors seeking durable retirement solutions. Although no forecast is absolute, current trends point to a meaningful uptick […]
Magnifact® Enables Real-Time Annuity Tracking at Revol One Financial® to Accelerate Sales and Enhance Distribution Insights
{December 9th, 2025} by Magnifact
CHICAGO, Dec. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Magnifact, a leading insurtech company delivering DataIntelligent℠ solutions to the insurance industry, today announced the successful production launch of its real-time annuity case-tracking functionality at Revol One Financial, a forward-thinking insurance provider committed to digital innovation. Through this integration, Insurance Agency Marketing Services, Inc. (IAMS), a well-established Omaha-based insurance marketing organization and […]
AM Best Revises Outlooks to Negative for Kansas City Life Insurance Company; Downgrades Credit Ratings of Grange Life Insurance Company; Revises Issuer Credit Rating Outlook to Negative for Old American Insurance Company
{December 9th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has revised the outlooks to negative from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of “a-” (Excellent) of Kansas City Life Insurance Company (Kansas City Life) [OTCQX: KCLI]. At the same time, AM Best downgraded the FSR to B+ (Good) […]
Draft Guidelines Could Shape States’ Efforts to Regulate Annuity Sellers
{December 9th, 2025} by Allison Bell
New draft guidelines could affect just how tough state regulation of annuity sales will be. The Life Insurance and Annuities Committee, an arm of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, plans to consider adoption of an “Annuity Best Interest Regulatory Guidance and Considerations” document Tuesday at an in-person meeting in Hollywood, Florida. Read at Think Advisor
Regulators defend close relationships with industry
{December 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
The world of insurance regulation is very insular. There isn’t a lot of media coverage, and rulemaking is shared by 50 insurance commissioners, plus representatives from the District of Columbia and U.S. territories. It all creates an environment in which regulators craft rules in partnership with industry, a relationship that is a little too cozy […]
State to decide on potential buyer for PHL Variable policies by Dec. 31
{December 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
Several companies are competing to take over or reinsure all or parts of the troubled PHL Variable Insurance Co. business, and the Connecticut Department of Insurance said it will decide which proposal to pursue by the end of 2025. Five companies submitted proposals of interest: three whole company proposals and two partial company bids. In […]
Cheap Life Insurance: The Most Affordable Coverage from Our Top-Rated Companie
{December 4th, 2025} by Kimberly Lankford
Term life insurance can be surprisingly cheap if you’re relatively healthy when you buy it. This low-cost insurance can be your best option if you need life insurance for a limited time period, such as 10, 20 or 30 years. We analyzed 19 term life insurance companies to find the best options for cheap life insurance. Cost […]
Gen X’s retirement readiness is threatened
{December 4th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
When it comes to retirement, the baby boomers get all the attention but it is Generation X that faces a retirement crisis. The Retirement Income Institute looked at the challenges that Gen X must overcome to achieve a success and secure retirement in a recent paper, “Retirement Challenges Facing Gen-X in the Peak 65 Era.” With shrinking […]
The role of riders: Enhancing policy flexibility and protection
{December 4th, 2025} by Jay Scheiner
Once upon a time, a life insurance policy was seen as a static promise, a simple transfer of risk upon death. But now, clients face risks that demand not only a death benefit, but also a financial tool designed to weather market volatility, health crises and the costs of longevity. In the indexed universal life […]
Big, Beautiful Tax Changes
{December 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
The federal tax outlook changed dramatically when Donald Trump defeated Joe Biden in November 2024 — both for the short term and the long. For starters, it meant that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 — Trump’s signature accomplishment from his first term — could be extended. Congress did so in July. Read […]
How cyber insurance will connect consumers and insurers
{December 4th, 2025} by Matt Cullina
It’s no secret that the overwhelming majority of cyber insurance policies underwritten today are for commercial lines. But as the song goes, “The times they are a-changin’.” Several trends are on track to converge in 2026 and boost the perceived value of personal cyber coverage. Read at INN
IUL: It’s about the caps (long term)
{December 4th, 2025} by Sam Rocke
Indexed universal life has always been a bit of a lightning rod for controversy. Advocates suggest IUL has high upside potential with downside protection, while naysayers suggest the product is complicated and that poor market returns in the future will be a major challenge for policyholders. It is true that future market returns are relevant […]
DOL fiduciary future murky as Fifth Circuit tosses appeal
{December 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
The Department of Labor fiduciary rule is again on the ropes after the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the government’s appeal Friday. The appeal was a holdover from the Biden administration, and the government withdrew it earlier in the week. Read at INN
MetLife Completes $10 Billion Variable Annuity Risk Transfer Transaction
{December 4th, 2025} by MetLife
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET) today announced it has completed its previously announced $10 billion variable annuity risk transfer transaction with Talcott Resolution Life Insurance Company (Talcott), a life insurance and annuities subsidiary of Talcott Financial Group. Expected foregone annual adjusted earnings total of approximately $100 million will be partially offset by annual hedge […]
NASCAR Champ Kyle Busch’s Pacific Life Lawsuit Moves to Federal Court
{December 4th, 2025} by Dinah Wisenberg Brin
NASCAR champion Kyle Busch’s lawsuit against Pacific Life alleging $8.6 million in losses tied to indexed universal life insurance policies has been moved to federal court in North Carolina. In a complaint filed in North Carolina Superior Court in Lincoln County in October, Busch and his wife, Samantha, accuse Pacific Life and an agent of promoting complex IUL policies […]
To Replace, or Not to Replace, an Annuity
{December 4th, 2025} by John Stevenson
I recently had someone reach out to me who wanted to replace six annuity contracts that he had with Nationwide. He had purchased them three years ago, and the current surrender charges were 9% plus a market value adjustment (MVA) charge of over 3%. With a total of over 12% in surrender charges to get […]
Benefits Law Specialist Calls for All 401(k) Plans to Add Annuities
{December 4th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A benefits law specialist who once served on the Internal Revenue Service employee benefits legal team is making the case for building annuities into all 401(k) plans. Andrew Stumpff Morrison — who is a former Davis Polk partner and a former University of Michigan law school lecturer — has proposed in a new working paper that the […]
Why age alone shouldn’t rule out annuities in retirement
{December 4th, 2025} by David Paul
Retirement today looks very different from what it did even one generation ago. Longer lifespans, unpredictable markets and rising costs for essentials such as health care have forced many retirees to reconsider how they generate income. That is why annuities, once considered niche products, have become mainstream. In 2024, annuity sales reached $432 billion, underscoring […]
PacLife takes top spot as LIMRA reports 14% rise in new life premium
{December 4th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Pacific Life Insurance Co. took over the top spot in life insurance new annualized premium through the first three quarters, LIMRA announced Wednesday. PacLife new annualized premium through three quarters rose nearly 33% from 2024 to $840.6 million. The insurer has been in a tight battle with Northwestern Mutual in recent quarters. Northwestern reported a […]
Behavioral barriers to buying annuities (and how to overcome them)
{December 4th, 2025} by Anna Baluch
Most individuals value financial security, yet many struggle to commit to annuities. More often than not, behavioral barriers rather than the products themselves create the greatest obstacles. Even those who are financially savvy often hesitate to move forward with annuities. “Fortunately, annuities are seeing greater use and acceptance, and the industry is doing a better […]
Annuity Owners Report Higher Levels of Confidence in Retirement Timeline
{December 4th, 2025} by Edward Rueda
Annuity ownership correlates with having more confidence about being able to retire when an individual wants to, and familiarity with annuities is growing, according to a survey from Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. Surveying 1,034 consumers between the ages of 45 and 75 in July, Nationwide, which sells annuity products, found that 76% of annuity owners expressed confidence […]
Annuity Owners Significantly More Confident In Ability To Retire On Time
{December 4th, 2025} by Nationwide Retirement Institut
COLUMBUS, Ohio – High inflation, market volatility, potential Social Security cuts and lengthening lifespans have investors grappling with unprecedented anxiety about financial security in retirement – but those who own an annuity are feeling significantly more optimistic than their peers. According to a recent survey from Nationwide, three-fourths (76%) of annuity owners are confident they […]
New York Life Announces Record $2.78 Billion Dividend for 2026
{December 4th, 2025} by New York Life
Largest dividend payout in company history underscores long-term value delivered to policy owners; marks 172nd consecutive annual dividend NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–New York Life, the nation’s largest1 mutual life insurer, today announced that the company will pay an estimated $2.78 billion in dividends to eligible participating policy owners in 2026 — the largest dividend payout in New York Life’s 180-year […]
The funniest possible outcome of the December Fed meeting
{November 26th, 2025} by INN Insider News
The Federal Reserve is deeply divided right now between officials who think it should cut interest rates next month and those who don’t. One plausible result of the vote would create a stunning irony. The big picture: Usually, as a Fed watcher, you don’t spend much effort counting votes. Read at INN
Life and Annuity Issuers Need AI Literacy
{November 26th, 2025} by Shay Alon
Consumers are spending less, and life and annuity issuers are feeling pressure to cut costs to maintain profitability. One way the issuers can respond without hurting the quality of their service is to ramp up use of new types of artificial intelligence systems and other advanced systems. Read At Think Advisor
Caregiving costs create growing obstacle to women’s retirement security
{November 26th, 2025} by Leo Almazora
Women in the US are facing greater financial and career pressures compared to their male peers, according to two new surveys. Read at InvestmentNews
U.S. Businesses Lean on Talent and Tech to Power Growth Amid Rising Costs
{November 26th, 2025} by Principal Financial Group
DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Rising costs of business expenses and economic uncertainty are testing the resilience of U.S. businesses. The latest Principal Financial Well-Being Index℠ finds optimism among business leaders has declined, with confidence dipping to 6.5 out of 10 in October 2025 from a slight rebound of 6.8 in July 2025. The Index reveals a widening outlook gap […]
Securian Financial Study Reveals How Gen Z and Younger Millennials View Life and Supplemental Health Insurance
{November 26th, 2025} by Securian Financial
ST. PAUL, Minn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A new Securian Financial study reveals that Gen Z and younger millennials recognize the importance of life and supplemental health insurance but still harbor key misconceptions that prevent many of them from purchasing it. With Gen Z and millennials now representing more than 40 percent of the U.S. population1, the study highlights […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and Its Subsidiaries
{November 26th, 2025} 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 ICRs) of “aa-” (Superior) of RiverSource Life Insurance Company (Minneapolis, MN) and its wholly owned subsidiary, RiverSource Life Insurance Co. of New York (Albany, NY). These companies represent the key life/health (L/H) insurance subsidiaries of […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of American National Insurance Company and Its Affiliates
{November 26th, 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 American National Insurance Company (ANICO) and its affiliates, American National Life Insurance Company of Texas and American National Life Insurance Company of New York (Glenmont, NY). These companies are collectively […]
Best’s Market Segment Report: AM Best Maintains Stable Outlook on US Life/Annuity Insurance Segment
{November 26th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has maintained its market segment outlook for the U.S. life/annuity insurance segment at stable, supported by a continuation of top-line growth, along with healthy capital and risk-adjusted capital levels. In its Best’s Market Segment Report, “Market Segment Outlook: US Life/Annuity,” AM Best states that the life/annuity segment has been able to grow surplus […]
California proposes greater ‘solvency’ oversight of insurers; industry balks
{November 26th, 2025} by John Hilton
In a year that began with devastating wildfires, California is proposing a disclosure regime to address the long-term solvency of insurance companies. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara unveiled the proposal last month and it focuses heavily on climate change data and policies. The proposed regulation aims to strengthen the long-term financial oversight of insurers as the […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Standard Insurance Group Members and Pacific Guardian Life Insurance Company, Limited
{November 26th, 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 ICRs) of “a+” (Excellent) of Standard Insurance Company (Portland, OR) and its affiliate, The Standard Life Insurance Company of New York (White Plains, NY), together referred to as Standard Insurance Group (The Standard). Concurrently, AM […]
Mountain Life Announces Nevada, New Mexico, and Rhode Island Expansion
{November 26th, 2025} by Mountain Life
LEXINGTON, Ky., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mountain Life Insurance Company is pleased to announce that it is now operational in the states of Nevada, New Mexico, and Rhode Island. With the awarding of its latest license by the states of Nevada and New Mexico, the company now offers its range of products to customers in 22 states. Mountain […]
6 Consequences of a 40-Year Retirement Horizon
{November 26th, 2025} by John Manganaro
Manulife John Hancock has published its 11th annual Financial Resilience and Longevity Report, building on its ongoing collaboration with the MIT AgeLab and the recently published Longevity Preparedness Index. As the report details, the number of centenarians is increasing steadily here in the United States, meaning the prospect of a four-decade retirement journey is becoming […]
Kyle Busch IUL lawsuit moved to federal court at PacLife’s request
{November 26th, 2025} by John Hilton
A lawsuit by NASCAR star Kyle Busch against Pacific Life and an advisor over a poorly performing indexed universal life insurance policy moved to federal court Thursday. Busch and his wife, Samantha, filed the lawsuit in Lincoln County, N.C., state court, where the Busches live. The complaint accuses Pacific Life Insurance Co. and its appointed agent of […]
Trump DOL to Abandon Fiduciary Rule Defense
{November 26th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The Labor Department’s Employee Benefits Security Administration has decided not to pursue its defense of the Biden-era fiduciary rule. The 2024 DOL fiduciary rule was previously stayed by two federal district courts in challenges brought by insurance industry groups, which stopped the rule from taking effect. Read at Think Advisor
‘Take this as a win’: NAIC creates new life insurance illustration group
{November 26th, 2025} by John Hilton
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners is creating a new working group to address life insurance and annuity illustrations. The aptly named Life Insurance and Annuities Illustrations Working Group will: “Evaluate concepts for improving life insurance and annuity illustrations and disclosures, and consider revisions to relevant NAIC models or develop other guidance where feasible and […]
Benefits Law Specialist Calls for All 401(k) Plans to Add Annuities
{November 26th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A benefits law specialist who once served on the Internal Revenue Service employee benefits legal team is making the case for building annuities into all 401(k) plans. Andrew Stumpff Morrison — who is a former Davis Polk partner and a former University of Michigan law school lecturer — has proposed in a new working paper that the […]
Heartland National launches a new FIA featuring High Water Mark on volatility-controlled indexes
{November 26th, 2025} by Heartland National
KANSAS CITY, MO, UNITED STATES, November 11, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — Heartland National Life Insurance Company (HNL) today announced the launch of its latest product, the Secure Retirement Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA). Developed with input from experienced agents, the FIA is designed to provide a clear and straightforward approach to retirement savings. “We designed this FIA from an agent’s perspective […]
How AI is lowering the barrier for annuities sales
{November 26th, 2025} by Rayne Morgan
Annuities may have had a reputation as a complex, difficult product for advisors to sell, but Zinnia CEO George Esposito believes AI is breaking that barrier down. “There is a huge opportunity for AI to lower the barrier for distribution and education of that product. Product design and consumer trust is built by using AI […]
US life insurers ramp up offshore reinsurance amid profit surge – Moody’s
{November 26th, 2025} by Kenneth Araullo
Offshore reinsurance remained a central focus for US life insurers in the third quarter, as companies continued to leverage these structures to enhance capital efficiency and financial flexibility, according to Moody’s. Alongside this trend, life insurers reported increased profitability and sales growth, supported by a favorable macroeconomic environment. Investment income rose 4% from the previous quarter, […]
Influential Women Spotlights Lauren Hanson: Regional Sales Director – Annuities at RiverSource
{November 26th, 2025} by Influential Women
MINNEAPOLIS, MN, UNITED STATES, November 26, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — Empowering Financial Futures with Integrity, Expertise, and Passion Lauren Hanson, RICP, is a dedicated financial professional and current Regional Sales Director – Annuities at RiverSource. With over ten years of experience in financial services, Lauren partners with Financial Advisors to help clients build robust financial futures […]
Annuity Trends to Watch For in 2026: Products, tech, and market shifts
{November 18th, 2025} by Anna Baluch
The U.S. annuity market has grown significantly, and that momentum is bound to continue into 2026. Record-breaking annuity sales over the past several years reflect a growing demand for safety and guaranteed income driven by market volatility, demographic shifts, and heightened awareness of retirement income gaps. “With the U.S. entering its second consecutive year of […]
10 U.S. Life and Annuity Issuers With the Most Assets: 2025
{November 18th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The baby boomers are rushing toward their oldest-old years, they need guaranteed private income to supplement Social Security, and life and annuity issuers are building up the piles of assets that will create some of that guaranteed income. The American Council of Life Insurers tells the story in charts in the 80th edition of the ACLI […]
2 in 5 Americans Plan to Scale Back Holiday Spending–Some Skip Gifts Altogether
{November 18th, 2025} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This holiday season has arrived with a mix of confidence and caution: While more than half (55%) of Americans say they feel secure in their personal finances, many are tightening their belts and their holiday spending in anticipation of tougher times ahead, according to a 2025 Economic Impact Survey from Nationwide. […]
Manulife John Hancock Releases New Retirement Report with Insights on Preparing for a Better 40-Year Retirement Journey
{November 18th, 2025} by Manulife Wealth & Asset Management
BOSTON, Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Today, Manulife John Hancock Retirement, a company of Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, unveiled its comprehensive Financial Resilience and Longevity Report, offering insights into retirement preparedness to help individuals across generations approach their retirement years with confidence. Based on the company’s eleventh annual survey of U.S. retirement plan participants across Gen Z, […]
Group 1001 Insurance Recognized with 2025 Gartner Eye on Innovation Award for Insurance
{November 18th, 2025} by Group 1001 Insurance
ZIONSVILLE, Ind.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Group 1001 Insurance today announced it has been named the Americas regional winner for the 2025 Gartner Eye on Innovation Award for Insurance for its innovative Transfer Automation Packet solution. This recognition underscores Group 1001’s commitment to developing modern technology that drives innovation and delivers transformative solutions in the financial services industry. The Gartner Eye […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Globe Life Inc. and Its Subsidiaries
{November 18th, 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 key life/health subsidiaries of Globe Life Inc. (Globe Life) (headquartered in McKinney, TX) [NYSE: GL]. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of “bbb+” (Good) of Globe Life. […]
Protective Announces Key Leadership Promotions to Support Continued Growth
{November 18th, 2025} by Protective Life Corporation
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Protective Life Corporation (Protective), a U.S. subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. (TSE:8750), is pleased to announce the promotion of two senior leaders that will position the company for future growth. Effective January 1, 2026, Paul Wells will assume the role of President, Chief Financial Officer, and Wade Harrison will be become Vice Chairman, Chief Operating […]
NASCAR Driver’s IUL Suit Shows Litigation Revving Up
{November 18th, 2025} by Allison Bell
NASCAR champion Kyle Busch and his wife, Samantha, attracted a wave of attention last month when they sued Pacific Life over $8.6 million in losses on indexed universal life insurance policies. For NASCAR fans, the story was a glimpse at the financial concerns of the rich and famous. Read at Think Advisor
5 Things About Life Insurers That Worry the Fed
{November 18th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The Federal Reserve Board has come out with its latest annual report on what could make life insurance and annuity issuers — and the rest of the U.S. financial system — collapse like a house of ugly cards. Fed financial stability risk trackers focused much more attention on banks, securities dealers, money market fund managers and other […]
Annuity regulations and products will evolve in 2026
{November 18th, 2025} by Brian Kunkel
The annuity industry is shifting quickly, and the changes coming in 2026 will demand more from every financial professional. We’re getting more questions than ever about protected income, taxes and long-term planning. Read at INN ……………………….. Article Excerpt: Fixed indexed annuities continue to expand. Wink’s Sales & Market Report recently noted 96 new FIA products through […]
TIAA Announces Name Changes to Three CREF Variable Annuity Accounts
{November 18th, 2025} by TIAA
NEW YORK, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TIAA today announced that three variable annuity accounts in its flagship $290 billion CREF Variable Annuity suite will receive new names effective November 30, 2025, to better reflect their investment strategies and align with widely recognized industry terminology. The name changes will make it easier for clients to understand each […]
NAIC task force recommends 10-year data history for index illustrations
{November 18th, 2025} by John Hilton
A National Association of Insurance Commissioners task force agreed Thursday to recommend that 10 years of historical data be required to illustrate index components. The recommendation defied industry lobbyists who preferred the change to Actuarial Guideline 49-A be set at five years of history. The change, along with editorial corrections, was adopted unanimously by the […]
Transamerica expands stable value access to retirement plans across recordkeepers
{November 18th, 2025} by Transamerica
BALTIMORE, Nov. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Transamerica today announced the immediate availability of an Investment Only version of the Transamerica Guaranteed Investment Option (GA SVIO), the company’s highly regarded general account stable value account. This solution makes the Transamerica Guaranteed Investment Option contract available to retirement plans administered by any third party recordkeeper. The offering expands access to […]
F&G Annuities & Life’s Q3 Earnings Call: Our Top 5 Analyst Questions
{November 18th, 2025} by Anthony Lee
F&G Annuities & Life delivered a strong Q3, with management highlighting robust sales momentum and record assets under management as primary drivers for the positive results. CEO Christopher Blunt attributed the outperformance to “one of our best sales quarters in history, the launch of our new reinsurance sidecar, and strong performance across the business.” The […]
My Son’s Classmate Died
{November 18th, 2025} by Charlie Gipple, CFP, CLU, ChFC
Last month as I was driving to the grocery store, about a mile up my road the police had completely blocked it off. This may be a common thing in a place like New York City, but in the suburban area of Johnston, Iowa, something bad had obviously happened. A couple of hours later my […]
Annuity FYI Celebrates 25 Years as America’s Trusted Independent Annuity Resource
{November 18th, 2025} by Somerset Wealth Strategies
PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Annuity FYI, operated by Somerset Wealth Strategies, one of the nation’s first and most trusted online annuity resources, is celebrating 25 years of helping Americans achieve financial independence, peace of mind, and confidence in retirement. Since 2000, the company has guided thousands of individuals and families across all 50 states […]
Financial Professionals and Clients Disagree on Key Retirement Planning Conversations
{November 18th, 2025} by Alliance for Lifetime Income
WINDSOR, Conn., Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Financial professionals (FPs) and their clients have sharply different views on whether they discuss critical health-related issues during retirement planning, according to the final chapter of Alliance for Lifetime Income by LIMRA’s 2025 Protected Lifetime Income & Planning (PRIP) study released today. A key component of a comprehensive and effective […]
Millions of Public Sector Workers Risk Retirement Income Shortfall Without More Guaranteed Income, TIAA Institute Analysis Shows
{November 18th, 2025} by TIAA Institute
Analysis of retirement systems across 50 states offers state lawmakers a framework to help state workers get to an 80% pre-retirement income replacement target NEW YORK, Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — New TIAA Institute research finds that while many state retirement plans help workers achieve financial security in retirement, several states fall short, particularly those that don’t offer Social […]
Techficient CEO Todd Ruplinger Honored with ID Twenty Award at NAILBA 44
{November 18th, 2025} by Techficient
BOISE, Idaho, Nov. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Techficient proudly announces that CEO Todd Ruplinger has been recognized as an ID Twenty Award recipient at the NAILBA 44 Conference in Dallas, Texas this week. The prestigious award celebrates “innovators, change-makers, and trailblazers” within the independent distribution community, honoring individuals who demonstrate bold vision and transformative leadership in the industry. Ruplinger was nominated by Wade Seward, SVP and […]
Aquarian Capital to Acquire Brighthouse Financial
{November 12th, 2025} by Aquarian Capital LLC
NEW YORK & CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Aquarian Capital LLC (“Aquarian Capital”), a diversified global holding company with a strategic portfolio of insurance and asset management businesses, and Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (“Brighthouse Financial” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BHF), announced today the signing of a definitive merger agreement under which an affiliate of Aquarian Capital will acquire Brighthouse […]
Brighthouse Financial Announces Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 12th, 2025} 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 third quarter ended September 30, 2025. Third Quarter 2025 Results The company reported net income available to shareholders of $453 million in the third quarter of 2025, or $7.89 per diluted share, compared with net income […]
AM Best Places Credit Ratings of Brighthouse Financial, Inc. and Its Subsidiaries Under Review With Negative Implications
{November 12th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has placed under review with negative implications the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “a+” (Excellent) of Brighthouse Life Insurance Company (headquartered in Charlotte, NC), New England Life Insurance Company (Boston, MA) and Brighthouse Life Insurance Company of NY (New York, NY). […]
Brighthouse Financial Cancels Conference Call to Discuss Third Quarter 2025 Results and Provides Select Preliminary Financial Results
{November 12th, 2025} by Brighthouse Financial, Inc
CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Following the issuance of a news release earlier today announcing that Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (“Brighthouse Financial” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BHF) has entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Aquarian Capital (“Aquarian”) will acquire Brighthouse Financial for $70.00 per common share in cash, the Company announced today that it will not be […]
7 Things Fitch Says About Aquarian’s $4.1B Brighthouse Deal
{November 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Clients love the ability of life and annuity issuers to protect them from investment market and general economic volatility. The insurance rating analysts who track the issuers’ finances do not love to see issuers assuming large amounts of responsibility for protecting retirement savers and others against volatility and keeping the obligations on their own books, […]
TruStage™ Launches New Registered Index-Linked Annuity Option Designed for both Income and Growth
{November 12th, 2025} by TruStage
MADISON, Wis., Nov. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TruStage™, a leading insurance and financial services provider, today launched the latest solution in their suite of registered index-linked annuities (RILAs), the TruStage™ ZoneChoice Income Annuity underwritten by MEMBERS Life Insurance Company. The product is designed to provide two options for income, offering the highest guaranteed income (IncomeGrowth Protection) or the […]
Life insurance new premium up 16% in the third quarter, LIMRA reports
{November 12th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Life insurance new annualized premium increased 16% year over year to $4.3 billion in the third quarter, according to LIMRA’s preliminary individual life insurance sales results, which represent 80% of the U.S. market. The number of policies sold rose 10% in the third quarter. In the first nine months of 2025, new annualized premium totaled […]
F&G Annuities & Life Reports Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 12th, 2025} by F&G Annuities & Life, Inc.
DES MOINES, Iowa, Nov. 6, 2025 /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 third quarter ended September 30, 2025. Net earnings attributable to common shareholders (net earnings) for the third quarter were […]
Senior Market Sales® (SMS) Acquires Austin-Based Abt Insurance Agency
{November 12th, 2025} by Senior Market Sales
OMAHA, Neb.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Senior Market Sales® (SMS), one of the industry’s premier field marketing organizations (FMOs), has acquired the rapidly growing Abt Insurance Agency, further expanding the FMO’s Medicare insurance distribution nationally. “SMS has continually been a partner to Abt Insurance Agency on an FMO level, and we have benefited greatly from a lot of their technology […]
FNF Reports Third Quarter 2025 Financial Results
{November 12th, 2025} by Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Nov. 6, 2025 /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 & […]
These annuities act like ‘bumpers in a bowling lane’ to limit losses, advisor says: What to know before you buy one
{November 12th, 2025} by Sarah O'Brien
Investors who want to benefit from stock market gains but limit the impact of its losses are increasingly turning to registered index-linked annuities. Like other annuities, RILAs are insurance contracts that involve handing over money in exchange for a payout, often at a later date. As the name suggests, a RILA’s performance is based on a stock market […]
Annuities: Strengthening the three-legged retirement stool
{November 12th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
The three-legged stool of retirement planning has grown a bit wobbly over the years as fewer workers can rely on a pension during their post-employment years. But research has found that incorporating guaranteed lifetime income into the retirement investment mix can strengthen two of the stool’s legs while giving retirees more money to spend. Read […]
Judge approves nearly $6M of fees and expenses in Greg Lindberg case
{November 12th, 2025} by John Hilton
A North Carolina judge approved nearly $6 million worth of fees and expense reimbursements last week for lawyers working on the Greg Lindberg court cases. Judge Max O. Cogburn signed several orders on fees and expenses for the law firm Grier Wright Martinez, serving as special masters, as well as defense attorneys representing Lindberg. Read […]
How Annuities Can Help Retirees Fund Long-Term Care
{November 12th, 2025} by John Manganaro
Health shocks that drive the need for expensive long-term care often arise suddenly and are frequently permanent. This makes the prospect of serious disability in retirement one of the biggest sources of stress for late-career workers as they map out their future income strategy. As discussed in a new working paper published by the National Bureau of […]
Commission-Free Annuities Drive Elusive Organic Growth: David Lau
{November 12th, 2025} by John Manganaro
The outsized pace of mergers and acquisitions is one of the major trends reshaping the RIA industry, with RIA M&A deals already reaching an annual record in 2025. A growing stable of RIA firms have achieved eye-watering valuations as they have sold in whole or in part to new partners ranging from major private equity backers interested […]
Hexure Launches AI Enabled Version of Its Platform to Power Life Insurance Sales
{November 12th, 2025} by Hexure
DALLAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Hexure, the leader in digital sales solutions for the insurance and financial services industry, today announced significant enhancements to its platform, strengthening support for life insurance carriers and distributors. These advancements build on Hexure’s proven foundation, delivering a unified, powerful digital experience that enables seamless quoting, illustration, and application and beyond for life insurance, […]
JPMorgan’s Billionaire Clients Want Sports Teams More Than Fine Art
{November 10th, 2025} by Ben Stupples
JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s super-rich clients are bolstering investments in sports teams as rising values increasingly attract capital from institutional firms and they mature as an asset class. Some 20% of 111 billionaire families served by the Wall Street giant now own controlling stakes in sports teams, up from 6% three years ago, JPMorgan said […]
November is National Family Caregivers Month: National Life Group Partners With Homethrive to Add Free Caregiver Support
{November 10th, 2025} by National Life Group
MONTPELIER, Vt. & ADDISON, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–National Life Group has announced a strategic partnership with Homethrive, a leading caregiving support solution. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health estimates there are 63 million caregivers in the U.S.1 The collaboration aims to provide meaningful relief and resources to families and individuals across the full spectrum of caregiving situations, from childcare […]
Axonic Insurance Secures a $210 Million Preferred Equity Investment from LuminArx and Deutsche Bank
{November 4th, 2025} by Axonic
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Axonic Insurance, a global annuity and insurance platform, today announced a $210 million preferred equity investment led by LuminArx Capital Management (“LuminArx”), a global capital solutions provider, with participation from Deutsche Bank. Axonic Insurance is an innovative insurance platform that designs, distributes, issues, and manages annuity and related product offerings for individual consumers […]
Transamerica Launches FFIUL II Express to Deliver 100% Instant-Decision Life Insurance
{November 4th, 2025} by Transamerica
BALTIMORE , Nov. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Transamerica today announced the launch of Transamerica Financial Foundation IUL® II Express (FFIUL II Express), an indexed universal life insurance product with 100% instant decision underwriting – making Transamerica one of the few carriers delivering immediate coverage decisions on multiple products. With instant underwriting decisions and coverage available in as little […]
Axonic Insurance gets $210 million from new investors
{November 4th, 2025} by Editorial Staff
‘We’re decomposing the insurance industry into its parts,” Axonic Insurance CEO Michael Gordon told RIJ in 2024. “We want to make Lego sets, and put pieces together.’ Read at RIJ
Third Point Joins the Triangle, Cayman-Style
{November 4th, 2025} by Kerry Pechter
Another asset manager goes subtropical. Third Point Investors Ltd. established Malibu Re in the Cayman Islands, bought a Texas life insurer from Mutual of America, acquired a private credit shop, and received $25m each from Voya and ReliaStar. Read at RIJ
John Hancock Premieres Ground-Breaking Documentary Series: Longer. Healthier. Better.™ — Leaders in Longevity
{November 4th, 2025} by John Hancock
BOSTON, Oct. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Today, John Hancock announced the debut of a new documentary series exploring how advances in science, technology, and lifestyle choices are reshaping the way we age. The six-part series, Longer. Healthier. Better. — Leaders in Longevity, features leading voices in medicine and longevity research offering practical insights and fresh perspectives designed to help Americans enhance […]
Kansas City Life Announces Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 4th, 2025} by Kansas City Life Insurance Company
KANSAS CITY, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kansas City Life Insurance Company recorded net income of $3.2 million or $0.33 per share in the third quarter of 2025, up from net income of $1.3 million or $0.14 per share in the third quarter of 2024. The improvement in net income in the third quarter of 2025 reflected […]
CNO Financial Group Reports Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 4th, 2025} by CNO Financial Group, Inc.
CARMEL, Ind., Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CNO Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: CNO) today reported net income of $23.1 million, or $0.24 per diluted share, in 3Q25 compared to $9.3 million or $0.09 per diluted share, in 3Q24. Non-economic accounting impacts due to market volatility decreased net income in both 3Q25 and 3Q24. Net operating income,(1) which excludes these […]
Only half of American millionaires plan to leave an inheritance – and just one-third consider themselves “wealthy,” according to Northwestern Mutual Planning & Progress Study
{November 4th, 2025} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, Nov. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Is $1 million enough to feel affluent in America? Not according to most millionaires. Just 36% of the nation’s wealthiest citizens actually consider themselves “wealthy,” and nearly half (49%) say their financial planning needs improvement. Meanwhile, only about half of American millionaires (53%) expect to leave an inheritance or charitable gift […]
Prudential Financial, Inc. Announces Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 4th, 2025} by Prudential
NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) today reported third quarter results. Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. was $1.431 billion ($4.01 per Common share) for the third quarter of 2025, compared to net income of $448 million ($1.24 per Common share) for the third quarter of 2024. After-tax adjusted operating income was $1.521 […]
Lincoln Financial Reports 2025 Third Quarter Results
{November 4th, 2025} by Lincoln Financial Group
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2025. Strong financial performance in the quarter demonstrates broadening of momentum and balanced growth across all business segments. Third quarter net income available to common stockholders was $411 million, or $2.12 per diluted share. Third quarter adjusted operating […]
Most Popular Best’s Review Articles Include ‘AI Model Poisoning Emerges as New Threat to Insurance Data Integrity’ and More
{November 4th, 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: “AM Best: AI Model Poisoning Emerges as New Threat to Insurance Data Integrity” looks at a form of AI manipulation that corrupts training data. “Self-Driving Shift Comes With Early Costs, Changing Landscape for Insurers” investigates the potential […]
Zinnia Unveils The Policy Processor 8.0: An AI-Powered Leap Forward in L&A Underwriting
{November 4th, 2025} by Zinnia
GREENWICH, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Zinnia, a leading life and annuity (L&A) technology company, today announced the launch of The Policy Processor (TPP) 8.0, the latest evolution of its trusted underwriting platform. Built on a cloud-based architecture, TPP 8.0 delivers scalability, security, and continuous innovation to meet evolving business needs. It enables carriers to modernize underwriting with AI-enabled […]
Corebridge Financial Announces Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 4th, 2025} by Corebridge Financial
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial, Inc. (“Corebridge” or the “Company”) (NYSE: CRBG) today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2025. Kevin Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Corebridge delivered another quarter of solid performance, with our diversified businesses generating $12.3 billion of sales. The VA reinsurance transaction has enhanced our position, and […]
Equitable Holdings Reports Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 4th, 2025} 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 third quarter ended September 30, 2025. “We reported third quarter Non-GAAP operating earnings per share of $1.48, or $1.67 excluding notable items, up 2% from the prior year quarter. We continue to see strong organic growth […]
Jackson Announces Outstanding Third Quarter 2025 Results
{November 4th, 2025} by Jackson National Life Insurance Company
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN) (Jackson®) today announced its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2025. Third Quarter 2025 Key Highlights Retail annuity sales1 of $5.4 billion in the third quarter of 2025, up 2% from the third quarter of 2024, reflecting continued strong demand across our product suite – Variable […]
BD Hit With $80K Fine Over Annuity Switches, Background Checks: FINRA
{November 4th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has fined Supreme Alliance $80,000 for failing to supervise purchases of deferred variable annuities and rates of VA exchanges as well as failing to document registered reps’ background checks. Supreme Alliance, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, distributes mutual funds and variable life insurance or annuities. It has about 40 registered […]
Ameriprise CEO Wonders If Some Competitors Are ‘Overlevered’
{November 4th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Ameriprise CEO James Cracchiolo is wondering how long competitors will be able to pay what he sees as very high prices to keep luring advisors away. Cracchiolo talked about competition for advisors last week during a conference call with securities analysts. Read at Think Advisor
Corebridge Financial preps for CEO, CFO changes amid strong Q3 report
{November 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
Corebridge Financial has not been around that long, but the majority of its short time in business has been spent near the very top of a red-hot annuity sales market. That makes the impending departures of both CEO Kevin Hogan and Chief Financial Officer Elias Habayeb all the more surprising. Hogan will step down at […]
Ho hum, Q3 annuity sales set yet another record at $119B, LIMRA reports
{November 4th, 2025} by Press Release
Total annuity sales increased 4% to $119.3 billion in the third quarter of 2025, setting yet another quarterly sales record, LIMRA reported. This marks the eighth consecutive quarter of $100+ billion in sales. Year-to-date annuity sales totaled $345 billion, up 4% year-over-year. Read at INN
Regulators hear pushback on proposal to hide RBC data
{November 4th, 2025} by John Hilton
A public comment period ended on Thursday, with insurance regulators no closer to a final decision on a controversial proposal to limit the publication of risk-based capital (RBC) data. More than 300 people participated in a joint conference call between the Capital Adequacy Task Force and the Risk-Based Capital Model Governance Task Force. Regulators spent […]
Symetra Named to 2025 Fortune Best Workplaces For Women™ List
{November 4th, 2025} by Symetra
BELLEVUE, Wash.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Symetra Life Insurance Company announced that Fortune® magazine and Great Place to Work®, the global authority on workplace culture, have recognized Symetra on the 2025 Fortune Best Workplaces for Women™ List. This is Symetra’s fourth consecutive appearance on the list, coming in at No. 32 among the top 100 organizations in the large workplace category. To determine […]
NASCAR driver Kyle Busch sues insurance company for $8.5 million, alleging deceptive practices
{November 4th, 2025} by John Marshall
AVONDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Kyle Busch bought what he thought was a safe life insurance plan that would provide self-funding income for his retirement. When Pacific Life Insurance Company sent a sixth premium notice on what was supposed to be a five-year payment plan — and most of the money he invested was gone — […]
Best’s Special Report: U.S. Life/Health Insurance Segment Rating Changes Tapered Off in First Half 2025
{November 4th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Rating change activity in the U.S. life/health segment was noticeably lower in the first half of 2025, with downgrades also decreasing compared with the same prior-year period, according to a new AM Best special report. The Best’s Special Report, titled, “Fewer L/H Rating Changes in First Half 2025,” notes that U.S. life/annuity insurers continue to benefit from […]
