In recognition of June being National Annuity Awareness Month
{June 18th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
In recognition of June being National Annuity Awareness Month, I wanted to post my annuity quick reference. Hope you find it helpful! -sjm Annuity Quick Reference
12 Insurers That Sold the Most Annuities in Q1
{June 18th, 2025} by Allison Bell
U.S. retirement savers continued to pour cash into individual annuities in the first quarter. Overall sales amounted to $98 billion, down 5.7% from the total for the first quarter of 2024, according to issuer survey data compiled by Wink. But 2024 was a terrific year for annuity sales, and sales at the 12 highest-volume issuers increased […]
Wink: Software Engineer
{June 18th, 2025} by Wink's CTO
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Software Engineer to join our IT team! Wink, Inc. is a data intelligence leader in the annuity and life insurance industries. We are committed to modernizing our applications and providing our customers with efficient, data-driven insights. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing […]
NATIONAL ANNUITY AWARENESS MONTH EDITION
{June 18th, 2025} by Wink's Intel Pros
June is National Annuity Awareness Month! We will be reprinting our Chief Storyteller, Sheryl Moore’s most requested annuity-focused articles all month long; they will be indicated with “reprint” in the title. You’ll find these timeless articles are still relevant today. National Annuity Awareness Month aligns perfectly with Wink’s top priority of ensuring that the public […]
Reprint: Compensation: Commission vs. Fees #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 18th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Never in my decades of insurance experience have I witnessed a debate on social media that is more heated and passionate than that of fee-based advisors versus those who are commissioned. The argument? “One cannot act in the client’s best interests unless they are a fiduciary who does not get paid a commission.” Fiduciaries […]
Reprint: Innovation in Annuities #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 18th, 2025} by Bloomberg
A fireside chat with three annuity industry experts and a BI economist to discuss the space, as it relates to sales metrics, distribution and product innovation. Topics include the sales growth outlook for the Annuity space (Fixed, Variable, Indexed, RILA), product innovation in the index area, opportunities in the 401(k) market, competitive dynamics and the […]
REPRINT: DON’T ASSUME PROSPECTS KNOW ANNUITIES, #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 18th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
DON’T ASSUME PROSPECTS KNOW ANNUITIES April 21, 2013 by Sheryl J. Moore By Sheryl J. Moore, President and CEO of Moore Market Intelligence, an indexed product resource in Des Moines, IA. I was speaking to a health insurance agent today who was looking for information on life insurance and annuities. He was genuinely interested […]
A-CAP Provides Business Update
{June 18th, 2025} by A-Cap
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A-CAP Group (“A-CAP” or “the Company”), a New York-based insurance and financial services company with over $12 billion in assets, shared a business update today, including a financial update as of March 31, 2025, updates to product offerings, as well as several important operational developments. Utah & South Carolina Regulatory Update In May […]
RIAs Overtake Independent Brokers As Top Annuities Sales GrowthChannel, Goldman Says
{June 18th, 2025} by Ben Mattlin
For the first time, insurers ranked RIAs as the top distribution growth area for annuity sales, overtaking the channel of independent insurance agents. This is among the key findings in the fifth annual Goldman Sachs Asset Management survey of insurance and annuity providers, released on Thursday. Gathering input from more than 100 professionals at 31 […]
TIAA Traditional and Lifetime Income Annuities Now Available to Public via IRA
{June 18th, 2025} by CardRatings
TIAA-CREF recently announced that they are allowing the public to invest in their fixed and income annuities inside a Traditional or Roth IRA (via Bogleheads). This includes their most well-known TIAA Traditional Annuity, which has traditionally been only available to those working in nonprofit colleges, universities, hospitals (TIAA stands for Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America). This was […]
US insurers want to take a larger slice of the retirement market through the RIA channel
{June 18th, 2025} by Steve Randall
US insurance carriers are keen to hail the benefits of annuities in retirement planning and are using several key strategies to do so. Read via Investment News
Google’s New GenAI Model Gets Better at Life Insurance
{June 18th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
A follow-up quiz of Google’s latest generative artificial intelligence engine offers a window into improvements in the speed and accuracy of a technology more carriers are aiming to deploy. Read via LifeAnnuitySpecialist. But things are different with Bard’s successor, Gemini. It reports — accurately — that agent commissions on a SPIA range from 1% to […]
Northwestern Mutual Launches Season Two of “A Better Way to Money®” Podcast Offering Financial Advice to Consumers Navigating Major Life Milestones
{June 18th, 2025} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Northwestern Mutual, a leading financial services company offering comprehensive financial planning through insurance and wealth management, renews its award-winning podcast, “A Better Way to Money®” for a second season. In each episode, host Jennifer Borget is joined by guests who share personal experiences and unique perspectives, as well as financial experts who provide in-depth knowledge […]
Integrity Named to Inc.’s 2025 Best Workplaces List
{June 18th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS – JUNE 17, 2025 – Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has received a 2025 Best Workplaces Award from Inc. This year’s elite group of winners honors companies that have built exceptional workplaces with vibrant, inclusive cultures that support, motivate […]
Many Americans are Counting on the Wrong Safety Net for Long-Term Care
{June 18th, 2025} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A dangerous myth is exposing millions of American families to financial risk: 58% believe Medicare will cover long-term care (LTC) expenses, according to the 2025 Nationwide Retirement Institute Long-Term Care survey of U.S. adults age 29+ with household income $75,000+, released today. In reality, Medicare’s LTC coverage is limited and short-term, and does not […]
Lincoln Financial Launches Exclusive Capital Group and Vanguard Fund Within Variable Annuities
{June 18th, 2025} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) announced today the launch of LVIP American Funds Vanguard Active Passive Growth Fund, available exclusively within American Legacy® and Lincoln Investor Advantage® variable annuities. The new fund combines the strengths of two leading investment managers – Capital Group and Vanguard – to offer investors opportunities for diversified, long-term growth with a […]
Best’s Special Report: U.S. Life/Annuity Industry Sees Tenfold Increase in Net Income in First-Quarter 2025
{June 18th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The U.S. life/annuity industry saw its net income increase significantly to $11.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025 compared with $1 billion in the same prior-year period, according to preliminary financial results. This financial review is detailed in a new AM Best report, “First Look: Three-Month 2025 US Life/Annuity Financial Results,” and the data […]
Most Personal Injury Structured Settlement Annuity Recipients Report That Receiving Annuity Payments Makes Them Feel Financially Secure, According to New MetLife Study
{June 18th, 2025} by Mellife
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–An overwhelming majority of structured settlement annuity recipients, 96%, report that they are happy that they chose to receive their settlement as monthly annuity payments rather than a lump sum and 94% report receiving monthly annuity payments makes them feel financially secure, according to MetLife’s new 2025 Personal Injury Settlement Study, released today. “The […]
Time to Rethink Fiduciary Responsibility
{June 18th, 2025} by Life Insurance Settlement Association
For decades, financial professionals have relied on a trusted set of tools to help clients manage risk, plan for retirement, and navigate life’s financial transitions. But what happens when one of the most valuable personal financial assets, a life insurance policy, stops serving its original purpose or is no longer needed? That’s the moment when […]
Athene Holding, Biggest U.S. Individual Annuity Seller, Names CEO
{June 18th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The company that has quietly become the top U.S. individual annuity seller is getting a new CEO. Jim Belardi, who has been the chairman, CEO and chief investment officer at Athene Holding since May 2009, plans to pass the CEO title on to Grant Kvalheim on July 1. Kvalheim has been the president and CEO […]
Annuity sales top $100B for the 6th straight quarter, LIMRA reports
{June 18th, 2025} by Press Release
Total U.S. annuity sales were $106.3 billion in the first quarter of 2025, level with the record set in first quarter 2024, according to results from LIMRA’s U.S. Individual Annuity Sales Survey. This quarterly survey represents 85% of the total U.S. annuity market. “Total annuity sales topped $100 billion for the sixth straight quarter, demonstrating […]
‘Annuity King’ gets trial date for lawsuit against feds, Florida regulators
{June 18th, 2025} by John Hilton
Phillip Roy Wasserman is expected to get another day in court to make his case that state and federal agents broke the law during investigations that led to his fraud conviction. Wasserman was convicted on May 15, 2023, on nine felony counts. The three most serious – wire fraud, mail fraud and conspiracy to commit wire and […]
Cereal-ously unique product rollout
{June 18th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
This is cereal-ously the most unique product rollout I have ever seen, American National! Scott Campbell– I can see you are keeping busy. 😉 (And the cereal is not bad!) -sjm
Rebuilding trust and simplifying insurance will win over the next generation
{June 18th, 2025} by GlobalDataFinancialServices
A GlobalData poll has highlighted that insurers targeting younger generations are struggling with deep-rooted issues, such as low levels of trust and limited understanding of insurance products. Meanwhile, a survey by Insurance Europe—in collaboration with the European Youth Parliament (EYP)—found that younger consumers want insurance to be simpler, more-digital, and better tailored to their specific […]
Why isn’t Gen Z buying insurance?
{June 18th, 2025} by Strategic Intelligence
s Gen Z comes of age, it is quickly becoming one of the most influential consumer groups in the global economy. Born between 1997 and 2012, this digital-native generation is known for its tech savviness, pragmatic approach to money, and social consciousness. But one sector that is still struggling to capture its attention is insurance. […]
North America Insurance Midyear Outlook: Adapting to Disruption
{June 18th, 2025} by Geoff Cornell, CFA| Chief Investment Officer—Insurance, Gary Zhu, CFA| Deputy Chief Investment Officer—Insurance, Deanna Leighton, CFA| Head of Allocation & Strategy—Insurance
After an eventful start to 2025, we revisit our themes for the year and where we stand today. Whether it was a trade war erupting, an equity market round trip or whipsawing interest rates, there’s been plenty for insurance investors to react to so far in 2025. Let’s recap the macro and market picture, check […]
SCC refuses leave in Sun Life class action
{June 18th, 2025} by James Langton
The Supreme Court of Canada has declined to hear an appeal that sought to add a cause of action to a long-running class action lawsuit over the sale of universal life policies. In 2010, a class action lawsuit was filed against Sun Life Life Assurance Co. of Canada concerning the sale of universal life policies […]
Sammons Financial Group Enters into a Definitive Agreement to Acquire Wealthcare Capital Management from NewSpring Holdings
{June 18th, 2025} by Wealthcare
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sammons Financial Group announces it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Wealthcare LLC (Wealthcare), a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm with offices in Richmond, Virginia, and Philadelphia. Wealthcare is a full-service financial advisory firm with nearly 200 independent advisors and over 12,000 clients throughout the US. “We are excited by the breadth and […]
Life insurance sales up 2% in the first quarter, Wink finds
{June 12th, 2025} by Staff Reports
ife insurance sales rose more than 2% in the first quarter, Wink Inc. found in its Sales & Market Report. Life sales topped $2.7 billion in Q1, down 13.7% quarter-over-quarter and up 2.1% compared to the same period last year. All life sales include fixed universal life, indexed UL, variable UL, whole life and term […]
Reprint: Structured Annuities Seize the Spotlight #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 12th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
About fourteen years ago, the first structured annuity hit the streets. It was the first time in 15 years that deferred annuities had to welcome a new product class. And if you are still unfamiliar with these products, it’s time to get an education. These annuities are now the fastest-growing segment of the life insurance […]
Reprint: How to Change the Narrative Around Annuities: #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 12th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
June is Annuity Awareness Month, which is basically like a big, nerdy party for an annuity evangelist like me. This is primarily because I get to be on stage more often, do more webinars and Zooms than is typical. Heck, a few years ago, I even had the opportunity to work with my former Governor […]
Reprint: Wink’s Annuity Quick Reference by Sheryl J. Moore #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 12th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Originally posted on March 1, 2022 “I do not endorse any company/product. It’s not that I want people to buy annuities; I just want them to have credible information about them so that they can make a decision about if they are right for them.” Wink’s CEO, Sheryl J. Moore Click to view Wink’s […]
American National Insurance Company Introduces Smart Start Accumulator Series
{June 12th, 2025} by American National Insurance Company
HOUSTON, June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American National Insurance Company announces the launch of its innovative Smart Start Accumulator Series, a series of single premium fixed indexed annuities designed to provide clients with the opportunity for significant growth by maximizing accumulation potential from day one. The series, which includes Smart Start Accumulator and Smart […]
Security Benefit bolsters its flagship Foundations Annuity with New Indices and Index Accounts
{June 12th, 2025} by Security Benefit
TOPEKA, Kan.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Security Benefit today announced the addition of index accounts based on three new indices to its flagship fixed index annuity (FIA), Foundations Annuity. The new indices represent international, technology, and small cap segments, as well as a simple Trigger Rate strategy benchmarked against the S&P 500®. With these new options, Foundations now features […]
National Life: Strong 2024 sales led by 20% life growth, 17% annuity rise
{June 12th, 2025} by John Hilton
National Life Group set a bunch of new sales records in 2024, including $635 million in life insurance policies, $3.4 billion in annuities, and $57.4 billion in assets under management. Life sales were up 20%, while annuity sales increased by 17%. But that is not the mutual company’s focus, CEO Mehran Assadi insisted. Read via […]
Insurers show strongest financial performance in a decade
{June 12th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Publicly traded insurance companies showed strong financial performance in 2024 compared to the prior year, according to an analysis by Compensation Advisory Partners. CAP released its annual research on executive compensation and financial performance across two industry segments, including 19 of the largest publicly traded property/casualty and life/health insurers. Read via INN
This Annuity Feature Would Help Clients Manage a Health Shock
{June 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Three economists have gone into a virtual financial lab and come out with an idea for a new product: a health shock annuity feature. The product, which they call a “refinancing enhanced annuity rider,” or REAR, could help ease the fears of retirement savers who like the idea of annuitizing their assets, and getting a […]
Political Uncertainty Hangs Over Life and Annuity Sector at S&P Meeting
{June 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The U.S. life and annuity sector has been doing so well that Carmi Margalit, the life insurance sector lead at S&P Global Ratings, has no big current concerns about the companies that S&P rates. “It’s a very stable, very highly rated sector,” Margalit said Wednesday in New York at S&P’s 41st annual insurance conference. Interest […]
Group Fears IRS Could Change the Time When Annuities Are Taxed
{June 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
People who own annuities know they can put off paying federal income taxes on their investment gains until they begin receiving annuity payments — but that could change. Bryan Keene and Mark Griffin, Davis & Harman attorneys who are counsel to the Committee of Annuity Insurers, talk about the possibility in a letter they sent in May […]
Northwestern Mutual Launches Season Two of “A Better Way to Money®” Podcast Offering Financial Advice to Consumers Navigating Major Life Milestones
{June 12th, 2025} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Northwestern Mutual, a leading financial services company offering comprehensive financial planning through insurance and wealth management, renews its award-winning podcast, “A Better Way to Money®” for a second season. In each episode, host Jennifer Borget is joined by guests who share personal experiences and unique perspectives, as well as financial experts who provide in-depth knowledge […]
Global Atlantic Unveils New Brand to Reflect Strategic Growth and Strength
{June 12th, 2025} by Global Atlantic Financial Group
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Global Atlantic, a leading provider of retirement security and investment solutions, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of KKR, today launched its new brand identity and logo. Global Atlantic’s new brand highlights the powerful combination of KKR’s differentiated investment capabilities and Global Atlantic’s insurance expertise. The new brand pays tribute to the company’s rich history […]
Variable Annuity vs. 60/40 Portfolio: Which Won Wade Pfau’s Retirement Income Face-Off?
{June 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Some people pit toy soldiers against one another. Others program computers to play chess with themselves. Wade Pfau — a professor of practice at the American College of Financial Services and the holder of a doctorate in economics from Princeton — sends annuities into the Monte Carlo investment scenario arena against various other types of […]
Analysts Peer Inside Minds of RILA Owners
{June 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Clients who buy registered index-linked annuities may be a surprisingly simple group of people. They seem to cling to their RILA contracts with a tight grip to avoid paying surrender charges during the surrender charge period. Once the surrender charge period is over and the shock of shifting to new contract terms hits, RILA owners […]
Revol One raises $1.07 million toward $2.5 million goal
{June 12th, 2025} by Coverager
Revol One Financial , a Delaware-based insurance-focused holding company, has raised $1.07 million as part of a $2.5 million equity offering, according to a recent SEC Form D filing. The company, incorporated in 2024 and headquartered in Urbandale, Iowa, is led by President and CEO Mark Zesbaugh. The raise comes as AM Best upgraded the outlook […]
What is the 5-year rule for annuities?
{June 12th, 2025} by Angelica Leicht
In today’s uncertain financial environment, annuities can seem like the quiet, dependable retirement funding option, offering guaranteed income and helping protect against outliving your savings. And, with sticky (but cooling) inflation still putting pressure on household budgets and the stock market delivering mixed signals, the idea of guaranteed monthly payouts is even more appealing, especially for those nearing retirement or […]
LIMRA/LOMA targets consumers with Alliance for Lifetime Income merger
{June 12th, 2025} by John Hilton
LIMRA traces its history back to nearly 110 years of research, marketing, and analysis on behalf of insurance companies. For its next chapter, it is adding a consumer education focus via a merger with the Alliance for Lifetime Income (ALI). LL Global, the parent of LIMRA and LOMA, announced the merger with ALI on Monday. […]
As the business and this industry evolved throughout the last 17 years, his love for the work we do helping clients retire with confidence only grew.
{June 12th, 2025} by Jamie Johnson
Ron Essary’s obituary.
It was the happiest day of my life, and still is.
{June 12th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Twenty years ago, I married The Hottest Man Alive. It was the happiest day of my life, and still is. What has contributed to our wonderful marriage? 1. We put one another first. (I’m thirsty; better check to see if THMA is too…) 2. We respect each other. (He thinks The Home Depot has the […]
Integrity and QIA Partner to Better Serve Insurance Needs of Hispanic Communities
{June 12th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, June 3, 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 QIA, a leading insurance marketing organization based in Kissimmee, Florida, and led by Joe Quezada. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. QIA is committed to helping […]
A game-changer in innovation?
{June 12th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
The carrier reached-out to me on this product. Sounds like this annuity is going to be a game-changer, in terms of innovation. I am tuning in. Can’t wait to find out more!! Thanks, Steve Stern, for the heads up! -sjm
How to use IUL bonuses and multipliers
{June 12th, 2025} by Mark Milbrod
Indexed universal life insurance policies are increasingly popular, offering a unique blend of life insurance coverage and investment potential. As IUL’s popularity grows, the marketplace has become crowded with numerous new products touting exciting and enticing features to differentiate themselves from the rest. Read via INN
Wink, Inc. Releases First Quarter, 2025 Life Sales Results
{June 6th, 2025} by Wink's Press Release
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE INDEXED LIFE CLOCKS DOUBLE-DIGIT INCREASE IN SALES Wink, Inc. Releases First Quarter, 2025 Life Sales Results Des Moines, Iowa. June 6, 2025– Wink, Inc. released the first quarter, 2025 life sales results in its 111th edition of Wink’s Sales & Market Report. Wink’s Sales & Market Report is […]
1st Quarter, 2025 Life Insurance Sales
{June 6th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
All Life Sales for the first quarter of 2025 were $2,716 million, compared with $2,660 for the first quarter of 2024. First quarter life sales were down nearly 14% when compared to the previous quarter and up more than 2% as compared to the same period last year. All life sales include fixed universal life […]
I GIVE A DAMN ABOUT ANNUITIES – YOU SHOULD TOO! Reprint #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 6th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
I GIVE A DAMN ABOUT ANNUITIES – YOU SHOULD TOO May 19, 2015 by Sheryl J. Moore WHY PEOPLE NEED ANNUITIES I recall well my entrance into the life insurance market. Nearly 20 years ago, I was a single mother with three babies in diapers; wondering what career I could hold in Des Moines, Iowa […]
Reprint: Annuity Quick Reference Guide #AnnuityAwarenessMonth
{June 6th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Many have never heard of annuities. Perhaps the easiest way to grasp the concept of annuities is to first discuss life insurance products. Life insurance is a contract that pays a benefit in the event you die unexpectedly. In turn, annuities are a contract that pay a benefit in the event you live too long. […]
Regulators wave off criticism, adopt reinsurance asset-testing guidance
{June 6th, 2025} by John Hilton
A state insurance task force adopted a long-anticipated reinsurance asset testing guideline Thursday, kicking off a final adoption phase that regulators hope will result in initial data reporting by April 1, 2026. The Life Actuarial Task Force (LATF), comprised of National Association of Insurance Commissioners members, worked for about 18 months to create the guideline. […]
What you need to know about annuities during National Annuity Month
{June 6th, 2025} by WSAW
What you need to know about annuities during National Annuity [Awareness] Month. Watch via WSAW. Wink’s Moore on the Market: I thought that Kailey Berendsen did a pretty good job on this guest spot about annuities. (Especially considering how short the segment was!) Two things: 1. June is “Annuity AWARENESS Month” and 2. A […]
FIA indices evolve as the interest rate environment changes
{June 6th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Insurance companies continue to add newly launched indices to their fixed indexed annuity products, leading to a growing need to educate on the difference between live and back-tested index performance to help properly set policyholder expectations. A panel of industry leaders discussed what goes into the development of an index during a recent National Association […]
BD Hit With Reg BI Fine Over Annuity Exchanges
{June 6th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has fined AAG Capital $100,000 and ordered the firm to pay nearly $39,000 in restitution for exchanging retail customers’ insurance policies, fixed indexed annuities and variable annuities for more costly registered index-linked annuities, or RILAs. The exchanges violated Regulation Best Interest. Read via Think Advisor Wink’s Moore on the […]
Think you won’t live to 100? You might be wrong, and it’ll cost you.
{June 6th, 2025} by Daniel de Visé
Who wants to live to 100? Not a lot of us, as it turns out. America’s century club is getting larger, and reaching 100 is a realistic goal for a growing population of retirees. Longer life is a reward for improvements in exercise, diet and medical care. Yet, it’s a club that only 1 in […]
A 1035 exchange to an FIA: A smart choice in today’s environment
{June 6th, 2025} by Derek Miser
For those who purchased variable annuities between 2001 and 2015, today’s financial landscape presents a unique opportunity to revisit the terms of these contracts. The financial environment has changed significantly over the past 25 years, with interest rates now at their highest levels since the early 2000s. As a result, many retirees are finding that […]
So, the bonus is actually 10%
{June 6th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Question: If your product has a 20% premium bonus, an annual charge for the bonus of 1%, and a 10-year surrender charge… Doesn’t that mean that your “bonus” is actually 10%? -sjm Join in the LinkedIn conversation
Annuities 2025: Supercharging a hot market
{June 6th, 2025} by John Hilton
Annuities sales are incredibly strong, and a close look at market trends reveals yet more room to run. All-in-one digital delivery changing annuity sales The promise that technology would change the annuity industry is an old story with more tales of potential than actual results. Read via INN Wink’s Moore on the Market: I agree […]
A big meeting for annuity producers
{June 6th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Have you ever wished that there was a big meeting, just for annuity producers? I’m not talking about those gigs that marketing organizations put-on to recruit. I am talking about a training meeting, that teaches agents more about annuities, and helps them to feel confident in their craft. Yes, it exists. https://www.annuityproducers.com/live-event#buyticket -sjm
Symetra and Pacific Life Sued Over Annuity Beneficiary Changes
{June 6th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A new lawsuit in Michigan raises questions about what happens when unwanted annuity beneficiary changes affect income taxes. Laura Gritu, the plaintiff in the suit, has accused two life insurers, Symetra and Pacific Life, of changing annuity beneficiary designations without getting permission from Nick Gritu — who was the owner of the annuities and her […]
Reps at Big Broker-Dealers Drive Q1 Variable Annuity Sales Surge
{June 6th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Thanks to the registered reps at the full-service national broker-dealers, sales of traditional individual variable annuities climbed to $16 billion in the first quarter, up 21% from the total for the first quarter of 2024, according to new issuer survey data from Wink. Read via Think Advisor
Tariffs, Market Turmoil And The Retirement Dilemma: How Fixed Indexed Annuities May Offer A Lifeline
{June 6th, 2025} by David Abreu,
The latest round of U.S. tariffs is doing more than reshaping trade policy—it’s sending shockwaves through global shipping, U.S. supply chains and the stock market. As ports slow, trucking layoffs mount and inflation creeps higher, the ripple effects are being felt by everyone, but especially by retirees and those approaching retirement. If you’re within […]
Fidelity National Financial, Inc. Announces Successful Completion of Consent Solicitation
{June 6th, 2025} by Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE: FNF) (“FNF” or the “Company”) today announced the successful completion of the previously announced consent solicitations of the holders of each of its 4.500% Senior Notes due 2028 (the “2028 Notes”), 3.400% Senior Notes due 2030 (the “2030 Notes”), 2.450% Senior Notes due 2031 (the “2031 […]
Milliman’s first-ever Registered Index-Linked Annuity Experience Study shows behavior similarities with multi-year guaranteed annuity contract holders Share
{June 6th, 2025} by Milliman, Inc.
SEATTLE–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Milliman, Inc., a premier global consulting and actuarial firm, today announced the results of its 2025 Registered Index-Linked Annuity (RILA) Industry Experience Study. This comprehensive study is the first of its kind for RILA and includes notable post-surrender charge period exposure. The results demonstrate that industry surrender rates remain extremely low during the surrender charge […]
Nearly 70% of Americans Say Financial Uncertainty Has Made Them Feel Depressed and Anxious, According to Northwestern Mutual 2025 Planning & Progress Study
{June 6th, 2025} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Financial uncertainty is having a significant impact on Americans’ wellbeing. From sleep quality and mental health to personal relationships and job performance, money is weighing heavily on many Americans – but heaviest on Gen Z and Millennials. These are some of the latest findings from Northwestern Mutual’s 2025 Planning & Progress Study, […]
AM Best Assigns Issue Credit Rating to The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company’s New Surplus Notes
{June 6th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has assigned a Long-Term Issue Credit Rating (Long-Term IR) of “aa” (Superior) to the $1 billion, 6.17% surplus notes, due 2055, issued by The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (Northwestern Mutual) (Milwaukee, WI). The outlook assigned to this Credit Rating (rating) is stable. The proceeds from the surplus notes offering will be […]
Mountain Life Announces Oklahoma Expansion
{June 6th, 2025} by Mountain Life
LEXINGTON, Ky., June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mountain Life Insurance Company is pleased to announce that it is now operational in the state of Oklahoma. With the awarding of its latest license by the state of Oklahoma, the company now offers its range of products to customers in 14 states. Mountain Life looks forward to welcoming its first agents and […]
Pacific Life Named by Points of Light as One of America’s 50 Most Community-Minded Companies for Fourth Consecutive Year
{June 6th, 2025} by Pacific Life Insurance Company
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Pacific Life has been named a 2025 national honoree of The Civic 50 by Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteering, recognizing it as one of the 50 most community-minded companies in the United States. The Civic 50 sets the standard for corporate citizenship with honorees selected based on investment […]
RIJ and ChatGPT Discuss ‘Funding Short’
{June 6th, 2025} by Kerry Pechter
Life insurers used to be known as champions of ‘asset-liability matching,’ or ALM. Today, many of them are doing the opposite by ‘funding short.’ Here’s a transcript of RIJ’s recent conversation with ChatGPT about the risks and rewards of funding short, and its role in today’s annuity business. Read via RIJ
Variable Annuity vs. 60/40 Portfolio: Which Won Wade Pfau’s Retirement Income Face-Off?
{June 6th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Some people pit toy soldiers against one another. Others program computers to play chess with themselves. Wade Pfau — a professor of practice at the American College of Financial Services and the holder of a doctorate in economics from Princeton — sends annuities into the Monte Carlo investment scenario arena against various other types of […]
Sounds like a unicorn, I’m intrigued
{June 6th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Holy buckets. So rarely do I find true innovation in the indexed annuity market… This sounds like a freaking unicorn! I’ve registered. Call me intrigued, Steve Stern! -sjm
DALBAR’s Latest Investor Behavior Research Reveals Continued Outperformance by Variable Annuity Investors
{June 6th, 2025} by DALBAR
MARLBOROUGH, Mass., June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DALBAR has released the newest edition of its renowned Quantitative Analysis of Investor Behavior – Variable Annuities (QAIB-VA) report. The annual study examines how investor behavior influenced returns within variable annuities in 2024, delivering essential findings for financial professionals and investors alike. Built on the foundation of DALBAR’s industry-leading QAIB research, the […]
Life premium up in Q1, LIMRA reports; Pacific Life takes over as No. 1
{June 6th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Pacific Life, Nationwide, and Prudential made big moves up the life insurance new premium charts during the first quarter, LIMRA reported Wednesday. Overall, individual life insurance new annualized premium improved 8% year over year to $3.94 billion in the first quarter, according to LIMRA’s U.S. Life Insurance Sales Survey, which represents 80% of the U.S. […]
Happy 20th Anniversary to Wink and Sheryl J. Moore!
{May 30th, 2025} by Wink's Intel Pros
Wink’s founder, Sheryl J. Moore’s experience at insurance companies helped her quickly identify a need that was unmet in the insurance industry for competitive intelligence. In 2005, she developed the AnnuitySpecs analysis tool, then known as AnnuitySpecs.com, out of the dining room of her home in Des Moines, Iowa. After spending endless days working alone […]
Wink, Inc. Releases 1st Quarter, 2025 Annuity Sales Results
{May 30th, 2025} by Wink's Press Release
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities Continue Their Hot Streak Wink, Inc. Releases 1st Quarter, 2025 Annuity Sales Results Des Moines, Iowa. May 30th, 2025- Wink’s Sales & Market Report, the insurance industry’s #1 resource for annuity sales data since 1998, released its 111th edition report for 1st Quarter, 2025. One […]
First Quarter, 2025 Annuity Sales
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
All Annuity Sales Total 1Q2025 all annuity sales were $98,254 million, compared with sales of $104,213 million for the first quarter of 2024. First quarter annuity sales were down nearly 2% when compared to the previous quarter and down nearly 6% when compared to the same period last year. All annuity sales include sales of […]
Q1 annuity sales veer off record pace, remain solidly strong, Wink finds
{May 30th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Annuity sales might have peaked, judging by the still-strong first-quarter sales data released Friday by Wink, Inc. Total Q1 sales for all annuities were $98.2 billion, according to Wink’s Sales and Market Report, down 1.9% compared to the previous quarter and down 5.7% compared to the same period last year. All annuities include the multi-year guaranteed, traditional […]
Jackson Adds Nasdaq 100 Index Option, Offers Full Principal Protection Option in Latest Registered Index-Linked Annuity Launch
{May 30th, 2025} by Jackson National Life Insurance Company
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®), the main operating subsidiary of Jackson Financial Inc.1 (NYSE: JXN), today launched Jackson Market Link Pro® III (JMLPIII) and Jackson Market Link Pro Advisory® III (JMLPAIII), further enhancing Jackson’s suite of registered index-linked annuities (RILAs). JMLPIII (commission-based) and JMLPAIII (fee-based) give consumers the potential to grow assets before and during retirement while offering different degrees […]
About 20% of new businesses fail within the first year.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Did you know? About 20% of new businesses fail within the first year. This rate climbs to roughly 50% after five years. And approximately 65% of businesses fail by their tenth year in business. I have no idea what the stats are for year 20. But here’s the deal…twenty years and one day ago, I […]
Baby Boomers Might Be Fragile, Economist Warns
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Americans born after 1947 might be sicker, more likely to die and less affluent than comparable Americans born earlier were. Nicholas Reynolds, a researcher at the University of Essex, makes the case for a broad decline in U.S. human capital in a paper published, behind a paywall, in the journal American Economic Review: Insights. Reynolds started with […]
AuguStar touts income potential with new Virtus IUL
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
AuguStar Life recently took its latest Virtus indexed universal life product to market, a version with much-improved income potential, the insurer said. The Virtus IUL III is designed to “provide clients with a blend of accumulation potential, superior income distribution and protection features,” AuguStar Life said in a news release. “It is an ideal solution […]
Rising demand for guaranteed retirement income: Survey
{May 30th, 2025} by Gregg Greenberg
Things change over the course of four years – even the feelings of more than two thousand 401(k) participants when it comes to guaranteed lifetime income. Read via InvestmentNews
FIA indices evolve as the interest rate environment changes
{May 30th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Insurance companies continue to add newly launched indices to their fixed indexed annuity products, leading to a growing need to educate on the difference between live and back-tested index performance to help properly set policyholder expectations. A panel of industry leaders discussed what goes into the development of an index during a recent National Association […]
When a VA with lifetime income benefits offers the greatest value
{May 30th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
The number of annuity offerings available in the marketplace continues to expand, but sometimes it’s a good idea to take another look at a product that’s a bit more traditional: a variable annuity with lifetime income benefit riders. A new white paper identifies when a VA with lifetime income benefits can offer the greatest relative […]
F&G Annuities & Life lays off 192 in bid to ‘efficiently scale’ business
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
F&G Annuities & Life laid off 192 employees across both its home offices in Des Moines, Iowa, and remote functions. The news comes three weeks after F&G reported first-quarter earnings per share of $0.72, falling well short of analysts’ expectations. The EPS miss came despite a substantial increase in revenue: $2.18 billion against a forecast […]
Let States Regulate Insurance AI, Industry Group Says
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The American InsurTech Council wants Congress to leave regulation of the use of artificial intelligence in insurance and annuities up to the states. Scott Harrison, a principal at the council, is asking Congress to exempt insurance AI from any law that could limit how states regulate AI. Putting state insurance AI regulators on a leash […]
BD Hit With Reg BI Fine Over Annuity Exchanges
{May 30th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has fined AAG Capital $100,000 and ordered the firm to pay nearly $39,000 in restitution for exchanging retail customers’ insurance policies, fixed indexed annuities and variable annuities for more costly registered index-linked annuities, or RILAs. The exchanges violated Regulation Best Interest. From February 2021 through the present, AAG Capital failed […]
National Financial Literacy Remains Stagnant at 49% as Generational Gaps Widen, TIAA Institute-GFLEC Study Find
{May 30th, 2025} by TIAA Institute
NEW YORK, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 9th annual nation-wide Personal Finance Index (P-Fin Index) shows financial literacy remains at low levels with US adults, on average, correctly answering only 49% of the index questions across eight key personal finance areas, the same as in 2017. The report uses 28 questions to assess financial literacy and is […]
Guardian Report: Americans point to physical and mental health as most important to well-being, but poor financial health prevents them from achieving wellness goals
{May 30th, 2025} by Guardian
NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The annual Mind, Body, and Wallet® report from The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) reveals that Americans are largely united when it comes to how they define well-being. Across generations, genders, income, and education levels, mental and physical health top the list of the most important influences on wellness. According to […]
Royal Neighbors of America Celebrates 130 Years of Insurance with a Difference(SM)
{May 30th, 2025} by Royal Neighbors of America
ROCK ISLAND, Ill., May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Royal Neighbors of America, one of the nation’s fastest growing fraternal life insurance organizations is celebrating its 130th anniversary. Founded in 1895 by nine visionary women, Royal Neighbors has grown to serve nearly 300,000 members nationwide. The organization is now the second-fastest growing fraternal life insurance organization in the United States.1 On May 18th, more than […]
Gen Z Grapples with Debt, Some Spend Freely Despite Low Confidence in Retirement Readiness
{May 30th, 2025} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Despite just beginning their careers, many American Gen Z investors (aged 18-28) are already evaluating their retirement prospects – and many feel uneasy about their financial futures. A new Advisor Authority study, powered by the Nationwide Retirement Institute, highlights the financial challenges of Gen Z investors and the unexpected spending behaviors and digital […]
Integrity Partners with Premiere Senior Advisors to Further Enhance Support of Senior Market
{May 30th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, May 28, 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 Premiere Senior Advisors, an independent marketing organization located in Richardson, Texas, and led by Kat Tennant. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. Relationship building is a […]
MIB Elects New Chair, Vice Chair, and Directors to its Board
{May 30th, 2025} by MIB Group Holdings
BRAINTREE, Mass., May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MIB Group Inc. and MIB Group Holdings, Inc. (collectively “MIB”) are pleased to announce elections for their joint board of directors for 2025-2026, including its chairman, vice chairman, three (3) new directors, and the re-election of six (6) incumbent directors. MIB’s board is composed of 13 independent directors and one internal director, […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Symetra Financial Corporation and Its Subsidiaries
{May 30th, 2025} 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 […]
Symetra Wins Silver Stevie® Award for “Bull or Bear: Brave It All”
{May 30th, 2025} by Symetra
BELLEVUE, Wash.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Symetra received a Silver Stevie® Award in the “Marketing Campaign of the Year, Financial Products & Services” category for its Retirement Division’s multi-platform “Bull or Bear: Brave It All” campaign. The business awards were created in 2002 to recognize the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals worldwide. The 2025 honorees […]
Bridging the Retirement Gap: Global Atlantic Survey Unveils Surprising Differences in Priorities Between Financial Advisors and Their Clients
{May 30th, 2025} by Global Atlantic Financial Group
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A new survey from Global Atlantic Financial Group (“Global Atlantic”) reveals an opportunity for financial professionals to get even more aligned with their customer regarding what matters most to them related to retirement income priorities and investment protection strategies. For example, 88% of investors, but only 66% of advisors, prioritize investments for retirement that provide […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Its Subsidiary Share
{May 30th, 2025} 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 of “a+” (Excellent) of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. (Lincoln, NE) and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (New York, NY). These insurance entities comprise the life/health operations of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company (all companies are collectively […]
Can a marketing organization truly be “unbiased”
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Can a marketing organization truly be “unbiased” when evaluating the potential replacement of an annuity? Does the potential for another override/bonus not impact the distributors’ bias? Just reading a press release about a new annuity replacement evaluation service, and read that the FMO is going to offer an “unbiased review.” I don’t think an FMO […]
Wall Street’s New ‘Shadow Banks’ Are on a Tear. They Want Your Money.
{May 30th, 2025} by Miriam Gottfried
Tom and Laurie Hegna bought annuities as part of their retirement planning. Robert Plowright took out a loan for a home-renovation project. They didn’t know it, but they were on opposite ends of a multitrillion-dollar financial machine that has become the hottest thing on Wall Street, transforming who lends money in the global economy and […]
Connecticut regulators court potential buyers for PHL Variable blocks
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
One year after a Connecticut judge placed PHL Variable Insurance Co. into rehabilitation, the insurer is the subject of a controlled auction. Thirteen companies are studying confidential financial information as Connecticut regulators pursue the sale or reinsurance of PHL, or its blocks of business. “It is expected that several of PHL’s lines of business will […]
How long will my retirement savings last? Most Americans can’t answer that
{May 30th, 2025} by Steve Randall
The impact of inflation on Americans’ retirement savings is clear and it remains a key concern of retirees and those who are planning their retirement years. Read via InvestmentNews Wink’s Moore on the Market: Most Americans have no idea how long their retirement funds will last. A recent survey by Schroders provides some interesting stats: – […]
Fast forward nearly 20 years, and they cost as much as 1.55% of the Benefit Base value.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Did you know that when Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefits (GLWBs) were first introduced on indexed annuities, in March of 2006, they cost the annuitant 0.50% of the Account Value. Fast forward nearly 20 years, and they cost as much as 1.55% of the Benefit Base value. Note that this can translate to an annuitant paying […]
Texas Bill Could Speed Up Annuity Exchanges and Transfers
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A Texas House bill could help Lone Star State clients surrender and exchange annuities more quickly. The bill, H.R. 4386, would require insurers to complete many of the transactions within 30 days after receiving a complete, accurate transaction request. Read via Think Advisor Wink’s Moore on the Market: When I used to work in the administration […]
Advisor Gets 10 Years in Prison for Stealing $2M From Elderly Clients
{May 30th, 2025} by Dinah Wisenberg Brin
A former investment advisor whose firm was acquired by Wealth Enhancement Group in late 2021 was sentenced this week to over 10 years in federal prison for stealing about $2.25 million from elderly clients, including some that were receiving end-of-life care, and using the funds to buy properties and luxury vehicles for herself, the Justice […]
Spending Drops in Retirement, but Satisfaction Doesn’t: Blanchett
{May 30th, 2025} by John Manganaro
People often assume that maintaining “financial well-being” in retirement equates to maintaining a constant standard of living, as expressed in terms of after-tax spending. New research from PGIM’s David Blanchett puts that assumption to the test. Blanchett finds that financial satisfaction increases markedly for older Americans when holding consumption levels constant. Read via Think Advisor Wink’s […]
If you need talent, now is the time to speak-up.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
A home office in Des Moines just cut 200 employees from their payroll. If you need talent, now is the time to speak up. Let’s help these folks. Click HERE to post job opening -sjm
I will miss his stories. He was a TRUE storyteller!
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
An insurance icon, David Beery, has passed. He was one of my closest friends. We went to lunch once a month, just to catch up. I have never met an insurance agent that services their clients as well as Dave did. He drove all over the United States, just to meet with his clients annually. […]
A-Cap and regulators pause legal action to mediate 777 Re fallout
{May 30th, 2025} by Kenneth Araullo
The Utah Insurance Department and A-Cap Group have agreed to pause their legal proceedings and enter mediation over matters connected to 777 Re Ltd., the former Bermuda-based reinsurer at the center of an ongoing regulatory and financial investigation. The agreement, disclosed in a press release issued by A-Cap, follows a series of actions involving 777 […]
Internal Wholesaler, IMO Channel
{May 30th, 2025} by Athene
We are driven to do more. More for our customers and the financial professionals who offer our products. If you are driven to do more and love the challenge of pursuing more, Athene is your kind of company. You will find we offer more than the basics to create an inclusive and dynamic work environment […]
That still doesn’t make indexed life evil.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
“INDEXED LIFE IS A SCAM.” It seems the latest ploy to get more followers is posting about how terrible indexed life is. Sure- making sensational accusations will engage people when it comes to a highly-polarized topic like indexed life. But, at the end of the day, you are villainizing a product, a tool. Do some […]
F&G Annuities Cuts 192 Jobs
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
F&G Annuities eliminated 192 of about 1,400 employees Tuesday. The Des Moines, Iowa-based company said today in an email that the reduction in force affected employees at the headquarters offices along with employees in remote locations. “This is in alignment with the company’s goals to efficiently scale the business and ensure our long-term success,” the […]
Make an informed choice
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Amazon’s stock is gone…don’t be caught without my book “Why I Bought Indexed Annuities.” Click here to buy. -sjm
Des Moines-based F&G Annuities and Life announces it will layoff 192 workers on June 2
{May 30th, 2025} by Kevin Baskins and Tyler Jett
Des Moines-based F&G Annuities and Life will lay off employees by next week, a blow to a rare recent bright spot in the metro’s sluggish financial services sector. The company confirmed Wednesday, May 28, that it will cut 192 jobs after a disappointing first quarter due to declining annuity sales and a decrease in the value of […]
Utah regulators withdraw rehabilitation petition against A-Cap insurers
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
Utah regulators dropped a petition to force Sentinel Security Life Insurance Co. and a pair of reinsurers into court-ordered rehabilitation. In late April, the Utah Insurance Department agreed to pause its litigation and participate in mediation with Advantage Capital, known as A-Cap. Sentinel Security, Haymarket Insurance Co., and Jazz Reinsurance Co. are all owned by […]
In memory of a distribution legend, Ron Essary.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
What a very sad week! A distribution legend, Ron Essary, passed away today. When I first became acclimated with Ron, he was running CreativeOne (back when they were called “Creative Marketing”). Thereafter, he started Ideal Producers Group. To the best of my knowledge, Ron was the first field marketing organization executive to bring an actuary […]
Business Systems Analyst: Legacy Marketing Group
{May 30th, 2025} by Legacy Marketing Group
People are Legacy’s greatest asset. We acknowledge and leverage individual differences. Our diversity and the broad wealth of knowledge that comes with such a workforce enable us to deliver excellent results and client service. Working at Legacy means you have a company that stands alongside you and behind you. We are conveniently located close to […]
Web Developer: Legacy Marketing Group
{May 30th, 2025} by Legacy Marketing Group
People are Legacy’s greatest asset. We acknowledge and leverage individual differences. Our diversity and the broad wealth of knowledge that comes with such a workforce enable us to deliver excellent results and client service. Working at Legacy means you have a company that stands alongside you and behind you. We are conveniently located close to […]
It’s a good time to consider annuities
{May 30th, 2025} by UBS Editorial
There are many factors helping to drive annuities’ growing popularity: Longer life expectancies, more expensive stock markets (which suggest lower forward-looking returns), higher interest rates (which help to improve the potential income from annuities), and more retirees that are not covered by a defined benefit plan or pension plan (according to the Center for Retirement […]
RIA Growth Could Stall in 2025: Report
{May 30th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The number of investment advisors registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission continues to grow — with the number of firms hitting 15,870 in 2024, up from 15,396 in 2023 — according to data from the latest Investment Adviser Industry Snapshot. The next industry snapshot, though, “may be reporting on a significantly changed industry,” said Investment […]
Wholesalers: This opportunity gives you the chance to essentially run your own business
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
My buddy Bryan Cantrell at Simplicity Group is looking to hire wholesalers. And get this- you can work from anywhere in the U.S, and make your own hours and structure. This opportunity gives you the chance to essentially run your own business! If you are an experienced wholesaler, and interested in this opening, please contact […]
It’s OK To Be Ignorant About Annuities…Just Keep It To Yourself.
{May 30th, 2025} by Charlie Gipple, CFP, CLU, ChFC
I was scrolling through my LinkedIn feed and came across a conversation that one of my friends was having with a lady whose profile said she was a CFP® and also a “Fee Only Advisor.” What were they discussing? Annuities! You veterans know how this conversation was going with a “fee only advisor” discussing annuities! […]
Innovation In Life Brokerage: Embracing The Digital Future
{May 30th, 2025} by Ken Leibow
The life insurance industry is at a pivotal crossroads. For decades, the brokerage channel thrived by building personal relationships, navigating complex underwriting processes, and managing paper-driven applications. However, as consumer expectations shift toward instant gratification and digital convenience, life brokerage agencies must innovate to stay competitive. Read via Broker World
Annexus and North American Expand Partnership With the Launch of Secure Horizon Indexed Universal Life Insurance
{May 30th, 2025} by Annexus
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Annexus, a leading retirement product design company, has announced its continued collaboration with North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, one of the largest issuers of life insurance and annuity products in the United States. The two companies launched Secure HorizonSM Indexed Universal Life Insurance (Secure Horizon […]
Jackson has introduced a new version of their structured annuities/RILAs.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
For more information on the changes, check out Wink, Inc.’s AnnuitySpecs Tool. -sjm. Jackson Adds Nasdaq 100 Index Option, Offers Full Principal Protection Option in Latest Registered Index-Linked Annuity Launch.
Looking for a Chief Financial Officer
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
I have a client that is looking for a Chief Financial Officer. Are you qualified and interested? If so- email me your resume at sjm@intelrockstar.com, and I can make a warm introduction to my client. -sjm
Head of Income Planning, CBS Brokerage
{May 30th, 2025} by CBS Brokerage
CBS Brokerage is a dynamic and growing leader in the wholesale distribution of life insurance and annuities. We Deliver forward-thinking insurance and income solutions to independent financial advisors through a high-touch, planning-first service Model. Our Missions is to empower Advisors with products and strategies that enhance their clients’ financial outcomes — Particularly in the retirement […]
“Human vs AI” and the Future of Insurance: Insurtech Insights USA 2025 Agenda Unveils Power-Packed Lineup of Industry Disruptors
{May 30th, 2025} by Insurtech Insights
NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Insurtech Insights USA 2025, North America’s premier gathering of insurance executives and innovators, is set to return to the Javits Center in New York City on June 4–5, 2025, bringing together over 6,000 attendees and 400+ speakers from across the globe. With AI, digital transformation, and industry reinvention at […]
Ash Brokerage Introduces Annuity Performance Review
{May 30th, 2025} by Ash Brokerage
FORT WAYNE, Ind., May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ash Brokerage LLC (“Ash”), a leading distributor in the insurance industry, announced the launch of the Annuity Performance Review. When it comes to retirement, Ash Brokerage has always believed that plans and products should be reviewed on a regular basis. As clients move through the different stages of life, their […]
Let me play devil’s advocate.
{May 20th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Why would one put a volatility-controlled mechanism on a product that is already volatility-controlled? Let’s talk amongst ourselves. Join in the LinkedIn discussion -sjm
The Standard Adds New Features to Enhanced Choice Index Plus Annuity
{May 20th, 2025} by The Standard
PORTLAND, Ore.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Standard recently added new features to its flagship Fixed Index Annuity product, the Enhanced Choice Index Plus. The additions are built-in guarantees, innovative crediting strategies and the introduction of the S&P 500® Dynamic Intraday TCA Index. The ECI Plus is a single-premium, deferred index annuity designed for clients seeking growth, protection and guarantees with […]
Jackson Adds Nasdaq 100 Index Option, Offers Full Principal Protection Option in Latest Registered Index-Linked Annuity Launch
{May 20th, 2025} by Jackson
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®), the main operating subsidiary of Jackson Financial Inc.1 (NYSE: JXN), today launched Jackson Market Link Pro® III (JMLPIII) and Jackson Market Link Pro Advisory® III (JMLPAIII), further enhancing Jackson’s suite of registered index-linked annuities (RILAs). JMLPIII (commission-based) and JMLPAIII (fee-based) give consumers the potential to grow assets before and during retirement while offering different degrees […]
THIS was avoidable.
{May 20th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
EXCELLENT advice from Andrew Rose, CFP® CLU®, RICP®, below. Don’t end up like me. I have been fighting right and left for seven months because my Dad has no POA, and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. THIS was avoidable. -sjm
Director of Human Resources: Axonic Insurance Services
{May 20th, 2025} by Axonic
Summary: Axonic Insurance Services (AIS), the insurance division of an NYC-based asset management firm, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Human Resources. This individual will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and lead all aspects of HR strategy, operations, and compliance. This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance strategic […]
Bidders Reportedly Offer Up to $9B for Brighthouse Financial
{May 20th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
But Sheryl Moore, CEO of life and annuity market researcher Wink, said that lower sales or shrinking market share likely wouldn’t damp interest in the carrier among the potential suitors. “This is the former MetLife,” she said. “I believe that if one of those firms can get the company at a lower price, they’d be thrilled.” Read […]
Tom Hegna Joins Annuity.com, Inc. Board to Tackle Retirement Education and Agent Shortage
{May 20th, 2025} by Annuity.com, Inc.
PHOENIX, AZ – April 17, 2025 — Annuity.com, Inc. announced today that Tom Hegna, the nation’s most recognized retirement income educator, has joined its Board of Directors—uniting two of the most influential forces in the annuity space to address the growing retirement income crisis and the shrinking agent workforce. Hegna, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant […]
Why Millennials Are Hesitant About Life Insurance
{May 20th, 2025} by John Thornton
Millennials are navigating a financial reality that looks nothing like the one their parents experienced. They’re saddled with unprecedented levels of student debt. Housing costs have soared beyond reach in many cities. Read via Think Advisor
SEC needs to show its hand on disclosures after Cutter verdict, analysts say
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
The Securities and Exchange Commission has some work to do following the recent guilty verdict against a Massachusetts advisor for insufficient disclosures. In the April verdict, the jury determined that Jeffrey Cutter and Cutter Financial Group did not violate Section 206(1) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, but did find violations of Section 206(2), which bars […]
California court to decide whether lapse law applies to out-of-state policies
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
The California Supreme Court is tackling the thorny question of whether the state’s life insurance lapse laws apply to policies that originated in other states. In a two-sentence notice on April 16, the court agreed to a request from the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Pitt v. Metropolitan Tower Life Insurance Co. […]
John Carroll Interview, Part II: Overcoming the Ned Ryerson stigma
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
The average insurance agent is older, probably white, and most likely a man. These are trends the industry has tried to change for many years. But young people are shying away from careers in insurance. It isn’t for lack of opportunities. Read via INN
CEO says Athene ‘better positioned’ to stay No. 1 in volatile annuity climate
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
As a tumultuous first quarter ground on, life insurance companies and annuity sellers reacted in different ways: some pulled back and some continued business as usual. Athene Life & Annuity took a different approach, CEO Jim Belardi said Monday. “With the presence of market volatility, we made the strategic decision to accelerate new business volumes, […]
Gen Z getting serious about finances
{May 20th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Gen Z is beginning to make its mark on the world, and they are proving to be the most serious generation when it comes to finances. That’s the word from Corebridge Financial’s 2025 Financial Capability Survey, which showed 78% of Gen Zers said they already have become serious about their financial future. More than 1 in 10 […]
Insurtech investment roars back in Q1
{May 20th, 2025} by Doug Bailey
After several quarters of stagnant growth and investor fatigue, the insurtech sector roared into 2025 with renewed purpose, thanks in large part to a technology that’s no longer futuristic — just fundamental. Global insurtech funding rose 90.2% in the first quarter of 2025 to $1.31 billion, marking the sector’s strongest performance since the third quarter […]
Retirement confidence and ‘the great decide’
{May 20th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Americans are on the precipice of huge financial choices as they prepare for retirement – a phenomenon described as “the great decide.” But a lack of confidence is keeping Americans from making the choices they need for a successful retirement. Rebecca Rickert, head of marketing communications and consumer insights for Empower, was among the panelists […]
Americans’ Financial Confidence On Decline Since 2020, Allianz Life Study Finds
{May 20th, 2025} by Allianz Life
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Americans’ financial confidence has declined significantly in the last five years and many do not think they are saving enough for retirement, according to the 2025 Annual Retirement Study* from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, part of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). In 2025, just 70% of […]
Carolina Insurance Advisors and Integrity Partner to Help More Americans Navigate Insurance Opportunities
{May 20th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, May 13, 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 Carolina Insurance Advisors, an independent marketing organization based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and led by Joe Goins. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. “Integrity partnerships bring together […]
