Leveraging Social Media in Regulated Spaces
{November 28th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
I did a podcast with the folks at ePresence – social media solved, after attending a breakout with them at NAFA (National Association for Fixed Annuities). They are professionals on social media. So, I thought I would sit-in, and learn something. As it turns out, they actually taught me ALOT! Here’s a tidbit on what they thought […]
Clients’ Misunderstanding About Indexed Policies
{November 28th, 2021} by Bill Boersma
Some things in life seem straightforward enough that they don’t need explanation, but experience often proves this assumption wrong. Click HERE to read the full story via Wealth Management. Wink’s Note: Who would think that no matter what, you cannot lose money in an indexed universal life product?!? LIFE INSURANCE COSTS MONEY! I am […]
Want the deets? Hit up WinkIntel’s AnnuitySpecs tool
{November 28th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
I am seeing more indexed annuities offering structured-annuity-like indexing in them lately. For example, this month American Equity launched their new FlexShield 10 indexed annuity. The story is that this product gives buyers the opportunity to take some negatives into account in an interim indexing period, in exchange for the opportunity to earn even greater interest than with […]
Our best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving
{November 23rd, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore and Wink's Intel Pros
At this time of Thanksgiving, our thoughts turn gratefully to you with warm appreciation. The Wink offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday for an extended holiday celebration with our family and friends. Our best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving! -The Wink, Inc family
Thank goodness SOMEONE listens to me
{November 23rd, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Seems everybody and their dog wants to confuse folks with the terminology “Registered Indexed Linked Annuity.” Not me. Uh uh. No way. There IS such a thing as a registered indexed annuity. Let’s not confuse this with that. I call them “Structured Annuities,” but at least the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has made a […]
If we can get dozens of more folks to do events like this…imagine the possibilities!
{November 23rd, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
It sounds like we are really going to have the opportunity to get the concept of annuities in front of so many more people! The first agent-sponsored event for the movie that I was in, “The Baby Boomer Dilemma” by Doug Orchard, was a smash success. If we can get dozens of more folks to do […]
Annuities struggle to gain foothold in 401(k) plans
{November 23rd, 2021} by Margarida Correia
Sponsors of 403(b) plans are light-years ahead of their 401(k) peers when it comes to offering annuities within their plans. More than half of 403(b) plan sponsors (53.5%) offer annuities as a retirement distribution option, whereas only 17.2% of 401(k) plan sponsors provide them, according to the Plan Sponsor Council of America’s recent survey of […]
Retirement Plans Should Be Integrated
{November 23rd, 2021} by Jack Guttentag
Suppose that automobiles were marketed like retirement plans. Then the chassis, engine and tires would be marketed by different firms, and the buyer would have to put them together. Yes, this would be absurdly inefficient, yet that is exactly the case with retirement plans. The three major components – financial asset management, annuities and HECM […]
Kentucky, Mississippi Adopt Best Interest Annuity Rules
{November 23rd, 2021} by Patrick Donachie
Kentucky and Mississippi are the latest states to pass rules governing the recommendation of annuities, becoming the 17th and 18th states, respectively, to adopt rules based on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC) model rule meant to align states’ annuity regulations with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Regulation Best Interest. Kentucky recently passed its […]
LPL, Ameriprise, Cetera, plus record SEC actions, record annuity sales and “How Not to Suck at Money”
{November 23rd, 2021} by Editorial Staff
Invesco QQQ and the NCAA are teaming up to launch a simulation to improve financial literacy for college students with several former collegiate and pro athletes serving on the venture’s strategic board. The CFP Board has four new board members. The SEC released its annual report on enforcement actions, and there were record annuity sales […]
The Annuity Paradox
{November 23rd, 2021} by Lynnley Browning
Suddenly, annuities seem to be everywhere. Sales of a variety linked to the decade-long bull market on Wall Street are booming. Companies can now offer the guaranteed-income insurance in retirement plans for employees. Insurers are designing fee-based contracts aimed at countering the industry’s reputation as an ATM for commission-greedy brokers. ”The missing piece of your […]
The power of relationship building in insurance
{November 23rd, 2021} by Surina Nath
Responding to demands in the marketplace during the pandemic has been challenging to say the least, but companies that have invested in relationship building – both internally and externally – have been able to promote growth in all the right ways. AXIS, a leader in specialty insurance and global reinsurance, is a company that prides […]
Look For A New Fiduciary Rule In The Spring, Analysts Say
{November 23rd, 2021} by John Hilton
The Department of Labor is realistically likely to deliver a new fiduciary rule in the spring, a pair of industry analysts said last week. Officially, the Employee Benefits Security Administration plans to issue the new fiduciary rule by next month, according to DOL’s regulatory agenda. But nobody expects that to happen, said Bradford P. Campbell, […]
Legendary Insurance Icon Brokers Clearing House Partners with Integrity to Create Innovative Solutions for Advisors
{November 23rd, 2021} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, Nov. 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity Marketing Group, LLC (“Integrity”), one of the leading independent distributors of life, health and wealth products, today announced it has acquired Brokers Clearing House, a leading brokerage general agency (BGA) based in Des Moines, Iowa. As part of the acquisition, Debbie Hannam, President and Partner at Brokers Clearing House, and Dan Allison, Managing Partner at […]
Transamerica and FuturePlan Expand Retirement Plan Access with Innovative New Pooled Plan Solution
{November 23rd, 2021} by Transamerica
BALTIMORE, Nov. 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Transamerica and FuturePlan by Ascensus today introduced an innovative new pooled plan retirement solution called FuturePlan GPS (Group Plan Solution). FuturePlan GPS makes retirement plan sponsorship easier for employers by reducing time-consuming administrative burdens and mitigating fiduciary risk. With a fully integrated 100-point payroll data integrity check, it also helps prevent […]
Inflation and Market Volatility are Among Top Concerns of American Investors, According to New F&G Survey
{November 23rd, 2021} by Fidelity & Guaranty Life
DES MOINES, Iowa, Nov. 17, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Nearly three quarters of American investors (73%) are very or somewhat worried about inflation impacting their retirement, according to a new survey from F&G, part of the FNF family of companies and a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients. The company’s second […]
The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company Introduces New Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Benefit Rider II
{November 23rd, 2021} by The Penn Mutual LIfe Insurance Company
HORSHAM, Pa., Nov. 17, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (Penn Mutual), a Fortune 1000 company, recently introduced the Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Benefit Rider II (GMAB II) as an optional benefit to its Smart Foundation Variable Annuity products. This new rider offers downside protection in a variable product and guarantees at shorter durations. GMAB II […]
MassMutual Consumer Spending & Saving Index: Americans Plan to Spend $1,243 on Average on Holiday-Related Purchases This Season
{November 23rd, 2021} by MassMutual
SPRINGFIELD, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–As the holidays quickly approach, Americans are more optimistic about their financial outlook and are planning to increase their holiday spending compared to last year, according to new research from Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). Nearly three-quarters (73%) are optimistic about their finances and over one-third are “very optimistic” (35%), up from the percentage […]
Fidelity Investments Launches Guaranteed Income Direct to Help Workers Convert 401(k) and 403(b) Savings Into Annuities at Retirement
{November 23rd, 2021} by Fidelity Investments
BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Fidelity Investments today announced Guaranteed Income Direct, a retirement income product that allows individuals to convert a portion of their 401(k) or 403(b) savings into an annuity to provide consistent, pension-like payments1 throughout retirement. With nearly eight million workers2 on Fidelity’s workplace savings platform nearing retirement, Fidelity’s Guaranteed Income Direct addresses the growing interest3 among employers and […]
AIG Announces Results and Upsizing of Its Tender Offers for Certain Outstanding Notes
{November 23rd, 2021} by AIG
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) today announced the results of its previously announced 15 separate offers (the “Offers”) to purchase for cash the notes of the series listed in the table below (collectively, the “Notes”) and that it has amended the Offers by increasing the applicable Maximum Purchase Consideration from $1.0 billion […]
Putting Aging Risks Into Perspective: Retirees Are Less Worried About Financial Fraud and Costs Associated With Aging
{November 23rd, 2021} by Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Despite being at the highest risk of experiencing elder financial abuse, retirees reported having the least concern that they will become a victim of financial fraud and scams. Less than a quarter (24%) of retirees worry they may become a victim of financial fraud, compared with 42% of pre-retirees and 46% of near-retirees, according […]
Craig DeSanto named CEO-elect of New York Life
{November 23rd, 2021} by New York Life
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–New York Life, America’s largest1 and most admired2 mutual life insurer, today announced that the company’s Board of Directors has named Craig DeSanto CEO-elect of New York Life. Mr. DeSanto, who is currently the company’s president, will succeed Ted Mathas, who has served as CEO for nearly fourteen years. Mr. DeSanto will assume the chief […]
AM Best Comments on Credit Ratings of Manulife Financial Corporation and Its Subsidiaries Following Reinsurance Agreement Announcement With Venerable Holdings Inc.
{November 23rd, 2021} by A.M. Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has commented that the Credit Ratings (ratings) of Manulife Financial Corporation (MFC) (Toronto, Canada) [NYSE: MFC] and its subsidiaries remain unchanged following the Nov. 15, 2021, announcement that the company has entered into an agreement to reinsure a significant portion—more than 75%—of its legacy U.S. variable annuity (VA) block to Venerable Holdings […]
Pacific Life Collaborates With Ensight™ and Insurance Technologies on New Dynamic Client Illustration Tool for Annuities
{November 23rd, 2021} by Pacific Life Insurance Company
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Today, Pacific Life, in collaboration with Ensight and Insurance Technologies, introduced an innovative new sales tool that links to its current illustration software to provide financial professionals with an interactive, personalized presentation or e-brochure they can share with clients. The new presentation tool allows financial professionals to show their clients a comparison […]
American Equity Advances Return of Capital to Shareholders
{November 23rd, 2021} by American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American Equity Investment Life Holding Company (“American Equity”) (NYSE: AEL), a leading provider of financial dignity solutions through general account annuities, announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized repurchase of an additional $500 million of the Company’s common stock. The total available authorization for share repurchase is $736 million, […]
New York Life Declares Largest Dividend in Company History
{November 23rd, 2021} by New York Life
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–New York Life, America’s largest1 and most admired2 mutual life insurer, today announced that the company has declared a dividend of $1.9 billion to eligible participating policy owners in 2022, the largest in company history. Declaring a dividend for the 168th consecutive year underscores New York Life’s commitment to financial strength, mutuality, and delivering ongoing value […]
AM Best Revises Outlooks to Positive for Oceanview Life and Annuity Company and Oceanview Reinsurance Ltd.
{November 23rd, 2021} by Oceanview Life and Annuity Company
HAMILTON, Bermuda–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Oceanview Life and Annuity Company (“Oceanview Life”), an insurance company, and Oceanview Reinsurance Ltd. (“Oceanview Re”), a Bermuda Class E insurance company, today announced that global credit rating agency AM Best has revised the outlooks to positive from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings […]
NAILBA Holds In-Person Annual Meeting
{November 23rd, 2021} by Allison Bell
The National Association of Independent Life Brokerage Agencies has attracted about 700 people to its in-person annual meeting this week in Orlando, Florida. NAILBA is offering online meeting programming as well as in-person program. Dan LaBert, the Fairfax, Virginia-based group’s CEO, assured members in an event message that the meeting organizers have carefully reviewed the COVID-19 safety […]
FINRA Makes Big Adjustments to CE Rules
{November 23rd, 2021} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority on Wednesday adopted changes to its continuing education (CE) and registration rules, which include, among other measures, requiring those registered with FINRA to complete continuing education requirements yearly instead of every three years. As FINRA states in Regulatory Notice 21-41, the amendments to Rules 1210 and 1240: (1) provide eligible […]
Envestnet Adds Structured Products, Teaming With Goldman Spinoff: Tech Roundup
{November 23rd, 2021} by Jeff Berman
Envestnet is partnering with Goldman Sachs fintech spinoff Simon Markets to enable advisors to offer structured investments as fee-based solutions, the companies said in a joint announcement Tuesday. Envestnet’s integration plan will make it possible for advisors using Envestnet’s financial wellness ecosystem and unified managed account platform to offer structured investments as fee-based solutions and […]
Integrity Marketing Buys 4 Distribution Firms: Deals
{November 23rd, 2021} by Allison Bell
Integrity Marketing has announced a flurry of four independent marketing organizations (IMOs) in recent weeks. Marketing is a Dallas-based life insurance, annuity and health insurance distribution that has been growing rapidly through acquisitions. Click HERE to read the full story via ThinkAdvisor
David Blanchett: More Retirees Are Shunning Rollovers
{November 23rd, 2021} by Ginger Szala
With his recent move from Morningstar to PGIM/Prudential, David Blanchett has continued to hone his expertise in the retirement arena. His new position as managing director and head of retirement research at PGIM DC Solutions offers Blanchett a closer look at the defined contribution universe, especially as PGIM is the $1.5 trillion global investment management […]
Top 20 RIA Wealth Management Firms of 2021
{November 23rd, 2021} by Michael S. Fischer
RIA Database has announced its ranking of the top 100 wealth managers in the U.S. Researchers ranked firms based on total assets under management as reported on their form ADV part I as of Sept. 30. They used several criteria to qualify RIAs as wealth management firms. These included firms that predominantly serve high-net-worth family offices […]
Fidelity to Offer Annuity Access to 401(k) Participants
{November 23rd, 2021} by Ginger Szala
Fidelity Investments, which has $11.1 trillion in assets under administration, announced Thursday that it was launching Guaranteed Income Direct in 2022, giving 401(k) and 403(b) plan participants the ability to annuitize their retirement savings. The company says it has 8 million workers age 50 to 64 on its savings platform, noting that the growing interest […]
Harry Dent: Stock Market Crash Coming in Early 2022; ‘Economy Is Dead’
{November 23rd, 2021} by Jane Wollman Rusoff
First, the terrible news: “The biggest stock market crash of our lifetime will hit in 2022,” Harry Dent Jr., aka “The Contrarian’s Contrarian,” tells ThinkAdvisor in an interview. Further, “crypto is going to drop even more than stocks,” he predicts. Now, the good news: “You’ll see the biggest [stock] crash work to your advantage in […]
NAIC Panel Member Seeks to Clear Regulatory Pipes
{November 23rd, 2021} by Allison Bell
Birny Birnbaum is trying to pull a Life Illustration Issues Working Group report through the pipes at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Birnbaum is asking the working group’s parent, the NAIC’s Life Insurance and Annuities Committee, to release the report, which is about new standards for materials that show how specific life insurance policies […]
Wyoming Department Warns Against Scams Against Agents
{November 23rd, 2021} by Allison Bell
Officials at the Wyoming Department of Insurance have an urgent message for insurance agents: Real department representatives are not calling agents and asking for money to resolve licensing problems. Scam artists in other states are calling agents, brokers and other licensees and pretending to be representative from state insurance departments, Wyoming department officials say in […]
Life Settlements and the Life Insurance Payout Toolbox
{November 23rd, 2021} by Ashley Fabia
There are many options available to life insurance policy beneficiaries in regard to how they can receive the proceeds of the policy. But one often-overlooked payout method can prove beneficial in some circumstances. Life settlements are, in effect, a useful addition to the list of life insurance payout methods. Typically, payouts are mailed within a […]
How To Help Seniors Track Down An Unclaimed Life Insurance Policy
{November 23rd, 2021} by Press of Atlantic City
Dear Savvy Senior: When my dad died, we thought he had a life insurance policy, but we have no idea how to track it down. Any suggestions? – Searching Son Click HERE to read the full story via INN
Prudential Discusses How COVID-19 Affected New Life Insurance Policies
{November 23rd, 2021} by Newswire.com
In a time where tragedies have become more and more common, life insurance companies have adjusted to these new changes. Policies have generally remained the same, but there are some key differences worth discussing. Did COVID-19 affect life insurance premiums? Click HERE to read more via INN
Well-Balanced Planning is the Key to Successful Retirement
{November 23rd, 2021} by Chris Orestis, CSA
Well-Balanced Planning is the Key to Successful Retirement They say the two things no one can avoid is death and taxes— but the third unavoidable reality is aging. For people who make sound investments in themselves, the negative impacts of aging can be held at bay and their retirement years can be some of the […]
Firm winners named for InvestmentNews annual Innovation Awards
{November 23rd, 2021} by Brittney Grimes
InvestmentNews selected five firm winners for its fifth annual Icons & Innovators Awards. The winners were selected based on their ability to shape and transform the financial advice profession, along with their implementation of new advances and initiatives. Click HERE to read the full story via InvestmentNews
Vulnerable women represent opportunity for women advisers
{November 23rd, 2021} by Mark Schoeff Jr.
Women going through difficult life events — such as a divorce or the death of their spouse — are vulnerable and need an investment adviser more than ever. It’s an opportunity for women advisers to be their hero, said an adviser who specializes in helping women in those situations. Click HERE to read the full story via InvestmentNews
Big questions out there for Advisor Group
{November 23rd, 2021} by Bruce Kelly
Advisor Group lost one of its biggest and most important financial advisers last week, Kevin Myeroff of Royal Alliance Associates Inc. — a regular on Barron’s ranking of top independent advisers whose firm, NCA Financial Planners, has about $1.7 billion in client assets. Click HERE to read the full story via InvestmentNews
Pacific Life Collaborates With Ensight™ and Insurance Technologies on New Dynamic Client Illustration Tool for Annuities
{November 23rd, 2021} by Pacific Life
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Today, Pacific Life, in collaboration with Ensight and Insurance Technologies, introduced an innovative new sales tool that links to its current illustration software to provide financial professionals with an interactive, personalized presentation or e-brochure they can share with clients. The new presentation tool allows financial professionals to show their clients a comparison […]
Envestnet & SIMON Partner to Enable Advisors to Offer Structured Investments as Fee-Based Solutions
{November 23rd, 2021} by Envestnet |SIMON Markets LLC
CHICAGO and NEW YORK, Nov. 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Envestnet, Inc. announces that it is partnering with SIMON Markets LLC (SIMON) to offer access to, and the management of structured investments that can provide income and protection strategies for client portfolios. Envestnet’s integration plan will make it possible for financial advisors utilizing Envestnet’s financial wellness ecosystem and unified managed […]
The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company Introduces New Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Benefit Rider II
{November 22nd, 2021} by The Penn Mutual LIfe Insurance Company
HORSHAM, Pa., Nov. 17, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (Penn Mutual), a Fortune 1000 company, recently introduced the Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Benefit Rider II (GMAB II) as an optional benefit to its Smart Foundation Variable Annuity products. This new rider offers downside protection in a variable product and guarantees at shorter durations. GMAB II […]
Midwest Holding Announces CEO and Board Chair Changes
{November 22nd, 2021} by Midwest Holding Inc
LINCOLN, Neb., Nov. 22, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Midwest Holding Inc (“Midwest”) (NASDAQ: MDWT) today announced that A. Michael Salem, one of the company’s Co-Chief Executive Officers, has resigned as an officer and director and will leave the company, effective immediately. Georgette C. Nicholas was appointed as Chief Executive Officer and a member of Midwest’s board of directors (the “Board”). Ms. Nicholas was previously […]
Total Annuity Sales Rose 12% In The Third Quarter, LIMRA Reports
{November 22nd, 2021} by Staff Reports
Total U.S. annuity sales were $62.3 billion in the third quarter, up 12% from third quarter 2020. Year-to-date, annuity sales increased 19% to $191.4 billion, according to results from the Secure Retirement Institute U.S. Individual Annuity Sales Survey. Click here to read the full story via INN
The Annuity Option for a Secure Retirement
{November 22nd, 2021} by James H. Szostek
“Weekend Investor: The 4% Nest Egg Rule Is Cracking” (Exchange, Nov. 13) raises the question: Where’s the annuity? Easy-to-find online annuity calculators show payout annuities today providing more in annual income from $1 million than either a 4% withdrawal strategy or a 3.3% withdrawal plan in early retirement years. That’s the case whether the annuitant […]
4 Reasons Why Millennials Need Life Insurance
{November 22nd, 2021} by INNsider Pro
If you’ re a millennial, the chances you’ ve already invested in a private life insurance policy are probably pretty low. The share of Americans covered by life insurance slid from 63% in 2011 to 52% in 2021— and the most pronounced decrease has come from younger generations. Click HERE to read the full […]
Aggressive Annuity Illustrations Should Be Reined In, Critics Says
{November 22nd, 2021} by Warren S. Hersch
Wink CEO Sheryl Moore observes that the average fixed annuity rate is a mere 1.71%, while variable annuities are illustrating at less than 8% net. She said in an email that to illustrate a fixed product that has a floor at a rate higher than a variable annuity is “inconceivable.” Click HERE to read the full story […]
New American Equity Fixed Index Annuity Offers a Next Generation Crediting Strategy to Drive Growth Opportunities
{November 16th, 2021} by American Equity
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–For the millions of Americans looking for more flexible accumulation options as they grow their nest egg, American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company launches a new fixed index annuity – FlexShield 10. This 10-year retirement product brings a fresh approach to index-linked crediting by using an innovative new strategy, that gives […]
American Equity Ready To Reclaim FIA Dominance
{November 16th, 2021} by John Hilton
A recent $10 billion reinsurance deal will help American Equity grow its fixed index annuity income product line, CEO Anant Bhalla said. Under an agreement that closed in October, Brookfield Reinsurance has reinsured a block of approximately $4 billion of in-force policies, and will reinsure up to an additional approximately $6 billion of American Equity’s […]
BGAs And IMOs Are Growing Producer Ranks, Selling More, Survey Finds
{November 16th, 2021} by John Hilton
Seventy-two percent of respondents said they expect an increase in 2021 sales over 2020, according to a joint study by two industry trade associations. The survey of brokerage-general agencies and independent marketing organizations found that 63% of the respondents that expect to increase sales say they expect to see at least a 10% rise in […]
AM Best to Host Briefing on 2022 Outlooks for U.S. Insurance, Global Reinsurance Markets
{November 16th, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best leading analysts will review the state of U.S. insurance industry’s major segments and the global reinsurance industry, as well as what the rating agency foresees in 2022, in an online briefing scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.(EST). The one-hour event follows the publication of AM Best’s annual market segment […]
Faced With Rising Taxes and Ongoing Market Uncertainty, Pre-retirees Lean on New Investment Options to Maximize Savings Potential
{November 16th, 2021} by Lincoln Financial Group
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC) today announced the upcoming launch of a new crediting strategy within its highly recognized indexed variable annuity, Lincoln Level Advantage®. Beginning Nov. 22, 2021, new contracts with Lincoln Level Advantage will offer a spread crediting strategy, in addition to several existing investing options, providing investors with a new option for portfolio growth opportunities, balanced […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Great-West Lifeco Inc. and Its Subsidiaries
{November 16th, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “aa” (Superior) of The Canada Life Assurance Company (Winnipeg, Manitoba) and its affiliates. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of “a” (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings (Long-Term IR) of […]
Equitable Expands Availability of its Flagship Annuity Offering to Meet Financial Professionals’ Needs
{November 16th, 2021} by Equitable
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Equitable, a leading financial services organization and principal franchise of Equitable Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EQH), today announced the continued expansion of its variable and index-linked annuity product distribution in order to meet financial professionals where and how they prefer to do business. Equitable has expanded distribution of fee-based versions of its variable and index-linked annuity products […]
Brighthouse Financial Announces Upsize of Previously Announced Cash Tender Offer
{November 16th, 2021} by Brighthouse Financial, Inc
CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BHF) announced today, in connection with its previously announced cash tender offer (the “Offer”), that the Company has increased the aggregate purchase price of Notes that the Company intends to purchase in the Offer from the previously announced amount to an aggregate purchase price of up to […]
Security Benefit’s ClearLine Annuity Provides “Tax Alpha” New Research Shows
{November 16th, 2021} by Security Benefit
TOPEKA, Kan.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Security Benefit today applauded the findings of new research published by David Blanchett, Managing Director, Head of Retirement Research, PGIM DC Solutions. The paper highlights the potentially significant income benefits derived from using a tax exclusion ratio, in non-qualified products, available as part of its ClearLine Annuity Rising Income Rider. “Blanchett’s work helps […]
Jackson Announces Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 16th, 2021} by Jackson
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN) today announced financial results for the three months ended September 30, 2021. Key Highlights Net income of $206 million, or $2.18 per diluted share, included the impact of non-economic hedging losses under U.S. GAAP accounting Adjusted operating earnings1 of $487 million, or $5.16 per diluted share, down from the […]
Protective Life Corporation Unveils Inaugural Sustainability Report, “Because We’re All Protectors”
{November 16th, 2021} by Protective
November 09, 2021 08:32 AM Eastern Standard Time BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Following the recent launch of a new brand identity, Protective Life Corporation (Protective), a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. (TSE:8750), today announced the publication of the Company’s 2020 Sustainability Report, “Because we’re all protectors.” The inaugural report details the actions, progress and achievements resulting from […]
Haven Life Finds Americans Want to Talk about Anything Besides Politics and COVID-19 this Holiday Season, Even Willing to Discuss Money and Financial Planning Instead
{November 16th, 2021} by Haven Life
NEW YORK, Nov. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — A new survey of more than 1,000 individuals from Haven Life, the digital life insurance agency backed and wholly owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), finds that while many are excited to gather in-person with friends and family this holiday season, some conversations will be off the table. […]
Northwestern Mutual Internship Program Ranks Among Nation’s Best
{November 16th, 2021} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, Nov. 10, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — For the 26th consecutive year, Northwestern Mutual’s College Financial Representative internship program has been ranked by Vault as one of the 100 best in the country. The program is in the top five among financial services firms and is a top five internship for strategy and business development. “Our internship program is a […]
Trendspotter: Life Insurer Ownership Is Changing — a Lot
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
A relatively small number of companies seem to be gobbling up the life insurers. Many multiline insurers have been splitting off their life and annuity arms. Some life and annuity issuers that started out when stagecoaches were hot are now trying to find buyers, focus on selling certain types of life and annuity products, or […]
Fed Wonders About Life Insurers’ Liquidity
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Federal Reserve Board officials think life insurers look a little financially pale. Officials talk about their concerns in a new financial stability report. The report is different from, and a complement to, the Financial Stability Oversight Council’s financial system tracking reports. Life insurers earn much of the cash they use to support benefits by using […]
MassMutual Opens 17-Story Building in Boston
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Leaders from Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance and other organizations cut the ribbon earlier this week on a big new MassMutual office tower in Boston. The 170-year-old, Springfield, Massachusetts-based life insurer says the 17-story, 310,000-square-foot building has room for about 1,000 workers. Click HERE to read the full story via ThinkAdvisor
Jackson Executives Talk About the Annuity Gameboard: Earnings
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Jackson Financial is now a separate company from Prudential PLC, and it’s now releasing its own quarterly earnings reports and holding its own quarterly conference calls with securities analysts. Executives at the Lansing, Michigan-based annuity giant, which is the parent of Jackson National Life Insurance, say it’s using the same strategy many competitors are using: […]
Evergreen Annuity & Life Aims to Serve Cannabis Growers
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Evergreen Annuity & Life hopes to begin selling annuities and life insurance to cannabis company owners sometime next year. The Ann Arbor, Michigan-based company is preparing to apply for permission from Michigan regulators to operate as a life insurer there. Evergreen believes other states’ reciprocity agreements with Michigan will help it extend its footprint to […]
Life Health > Annuities 10 Life, Health and Annuity M&A Possibilities for Year-End
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Big, publicly traded insurers can make big deals at any time of the year, but the fourth quarter is often an especially popular time for announcements about mergers and acquisitions. Insurers may negotiate M&A deals to meet growth goals, invest excess cash, manage tax obligations, please insurance regulators, acquire talent or technology, or make good […]
Team Drafts Regs for Annuity All Stars
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
State insurance regulators are trying to figure out what longtime holders of variable indexed annuities should get when they give up their contracts. For financial professionals who work with annuities, the real, lasting impact may be that the insurance industry will be more likely to settle on calling those many-named products “index-linked variable annuities,” or […]
New S&P Global Market Intelligence insurance industry outlook projects the status quo won’t suffice in post-pandemic landscape
{November 16th, 2021} by S&P Global Market Intelligence
NEW YORK, Nov. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Insurance companies will need to accelerate the evolution of everything from distribution and pricing to customer and investor relations, according to the newly released 2022 Insurance Industry Outlook Report from S&P Global Market Intelligence. Cross-border M&A accounted for more than half of global insurance underwriter deal value in 7 of the […]
Conning: Life Insurance Industry Investments Show Results of Rough Year
{November 16th, 2021} by Conning
HARTFORD, Conn., Nov. 10, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Covid-19 pandemic hit life-annuity insurers on both sides of their operations in 2020. Not only did insurers have increased death benefits and expenses to contend with, but also the asset side saw a year of interest rates dropping from already historically low levels to rock-bottom levels. Several key sectors […]
Midwest Holding Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 16th, 2021} by Midwest Holding Inc
LINCOLN, Neb., Nov. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Midwest Holding Inc. (“Midwest”) (NASDAQ: MDWT), today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2021. Third Quarter 2021 Highlights GAAP net loss was $3.1 million in the third quarter of 2021, down compared to a net loss of $5.5 million in the third quarter of 2020 GAAP revenue was $5.8 million in the third quarter […]
Manulife enters agreement to reinsure over 75% of U.S. Variable Annuity block to Venerable Holdings Inc.
{November 16th, 2021} by Manulife Financial Corporation
Transaction releases capital, reduces risk, and unlocks value from legacy business. Manulife intends to increase the size of its previously announced proposed Normal Course Issuer Bid and buy back common shares to neutralize the impact of this transaction on Core EPS2. C$ unless otherwise stated TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC SEHK: 945 TORONTO, Nov. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – Manulife today announced […]
Venerable Enters into Reinsurance Agreement with Manulife Financial Corporation
{November 16th, 2021} by Venerable
WEST CHESTER, Pa., Nov. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Venerable Holdings, Inc. (“Venerable”), the leader in providing innovative risk transfer solutions to variable annuity issuers, today announced a transaction with Manulife Financial Corporation (NYSE: MFC) (“Manulife”) to reinsure approximately US$22 billion of variable annuity business from its U.S. subsidiary John Hancock. The reinsured business primarily comprises contracts with guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (GMWB), […]
SEC Official Gives Life Insurers a Best Interest Warning
{November 16th, 2021} by Allison Bell
An SEC commissioner appointed by former President Donald Trump has warned life insurers against assuming that they will be able to pay sales commissions to sellers of variable annuities. Allison Herren Lee told life insurance company lawyers recently that variable annuity issuers will have to comply with the SEC’s Regulation Best Interest, not just state annuity […]
BlackRock launches new research effort on retirement risks
{November 16th, 2021} by James Comtois
BlackRock Inc. is launching a new firmwide retirement research initiative and bringing back a former star to lead it. In a memo sent to all BlackRock employees Nov. 4, Chairman and CEO Laurence D. Fink announced that Peter R. Fisher would be rejoining the firm in January to oversee the project. Though details on this new […]
How RIAs should overhaul billing after another SEC warning about fees
{November 16th, 2021} by Tobias Salinger
If RIAs didn’t pay attention last time the SEC came through looking for information about their fees, the regulator’s latest warning should make them take notice, compliance experts said. A new sweep by the regulator’s Division of Examinations revealed widespread problems with how much RIAs charge clients and the manner that they disclose the expenses, […]
Advisors: Annuities A Great Fit For Middle- And Mass-Affluent, Survey Finds
{November 16th, 2021} by Annuity News
More than a third of pre-retirees are very worried about running out of money in retirement, according to Secure Retirement Institute research. Annuities can protect principal and provide guaranteed lifetime income, alleviating pre-retirees’ and retirees’ concerns about their longevity risk. However, while annuities have features uniquely suited to retirement, they are not necessarily appropriate for […]
Insurers Seeing Private Equity Enter Investment Portfolios And The Boardroom
{November 16th, 2021} by INN Insider Pro
By all accounts, the deal announced in July between Blackstone and American International Group Inc. was notable in size and scope. The private equity firm will spend $2.2 billion to buy a 9.9% stake in AIG’s Life& Retirement group in an all-cash transaction. Click HERE to read the full story via INN
Courts Left To Clean Up IUL Sales Fraud
{November 16th, 2021} by John Hilton
With the insurance industry facing aggressive regulatory activity on several fronts, it isn’t a good time for an explosive, wide-ranging fraud involving hundreds of insurance product sales. Yet that is exactly what is happening. What began as a pension fraud scheme spread to the sales of hundreds of indexed universal life policies before being shut […]
Congratulations Sheryl J. Moore!
{November 11th, 2021} by Wink Intel Pros
Congrats to Wink’s CEO, Sheryl J. Moore and the #TALUMINARIES Class of 2021, 👏👏👏👏 inaugural LUMINARIES program! Created with promo.com The World’s #1 Marketing Video Maker View on Promo.com
New impact index tracks which 79 firms are embracing neurodiversity
{November 9th, 2021} by Tobias Salinger
As more financial advisors adapt impact investing tools into their practices, one planner launched an index tracking which firms are embracing neurodiversity. The term refers to the principle that autistic people, as well as those affected by dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, social anxiety disorders or other conditions, should have comprehensive workplace accommodations enabling them […]
New York Life’s Pitch to Entrepreneurs: Sell Life Insurance
{November 9th, 2021} by Leslie Scism
A career in sales is a hard sell right now, and building a diverse sales force is even tougher, recruiters say. The 176-year-old New York Life Insurance Co. has one of the nation’s biggest fleets of life-insurance agents, totaling about 13,000, and the company has long been committed to keeping its sales force diverse. Click […]
Why Bermuda Is Life Insurance Heaven
{November 9th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Members of the American Academy of Actuaries met online last week and revealed answers to some of the most pressing questions in the life, health and annuity sectors — including, for example, why U.S. life insurers all seem to be rushing to do business in Bermuda. One speaker answered that question with a table in […]
Help People See the Value of Income Insurance
{November 9th, 2021} by Kip Mendenhall
If you are an agent or advisor, then you know that retirees typically don’t go looking for an insurance product for the spend-down phase of their lives. Many retirees might tend to avoid annuities because they have heard so much misleading or false information about the product or have been subjected to highly aggressive marketing […]
AIG’s Life Unit Makes $877M: Earnings
{November 9th, 2021} by Allison Bell
The Life and Retirement business at American International Group could be a representative for the entire publicly traded U.S. life and annuity insurer class this quarter: It earned close to $900 million, in spite of low interest rates and the COVID-19 pandemic — and AIG executives are still talking about efforts to spin it off. […]
Senate Bill Could Change Index-Linked Annuity SEC Filings
{November 9th, 2021} by Allison Bell
ADemocrat and a Republican have introduced a Senate bill that could help life insurers save money. The bill, S. 3198, would require the Securities and Exchange Commission to develop a registration form specifically for registered index-linked annuity (RILA) contracts. The RILA Paperwork Background Offering a RILA contract is a way for a life insurer to […]
Private equity/life insurer partnerships proceed
{November 9th, 2021} by Editorial Staff
American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company said it will provide “financing and capital support” to help Pretium, a specialized investment management firm, buy Anchor Loans, a large provider of financing to residential real estate investors and entrepreneurs. Click HERE to read the full story via RIJ
NAIC Eyes ‘Bermuda Triangle’ Strategy
{November 9th, 2021} by Kerry Pechter
The growing control of small and mid-sized publicly traded US life/annuity companies by giant global private equity (PE) companies has created “novel regulatory risks,” according to a document posted on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ website last month. Click HERE to read the full story via RIJ
KoverNow Survey of Millennials Shows Inclination To Purchase Insurance Via a Mobile App or App-based Products and Services
{November 9th, 2021} by KoverNow
SINGAPORE, Nov. 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — KoverNow, an insurtech start-up company based in Singapore, offering mobile consumer insurance services via its app, has released new research into millennial purchasing and risk attitudes to insurance. The survey, of over 500 millennials of the estimated 1.5 million living in Singapore, shows that their attitudes to risk and purchasing insurance services are influenced […]
Equitable Holdings Reports Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 9th, 2021} by Equitable
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, 2021. “Driven by solid performance across our retirement and asset management businesses, we reported strong third quarter results, with non-GAAP operating earnings of $1.94 per share, a 56% year-over-year increase and […]
Lincoln Financial Group Reports Third Quarter 2021 Results and Announces Increase to Dividend
{November 9th, 2021} by Lincoln Financial Group
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC) today reported net income for the third quarter of 2021 of $318 million, or $1.68 per diluted share available to common stockholders, compared to net income in the third quarter of 2020 of $398 million, or $2.01 per diluted share available to common stockholders. Third quarter adjusted income […]
MetLife Announces Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 9th, 2021} by Metlife
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET) today announced its third quarter 2021 results. Third Quarter Results Summary Net income of $1.5 billion, or $1.77 per share, compared to net income of $633 million, or $0.69 per share, in the third quarter of 2020. Adjusted earnings of $2.1 billion, or $2.39 per share, compared to adjusted […]
American Equity Reports Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 9th, 2021} by American Equity Investment Life Holding Company
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American Equity Investment Life Holding Company (NYSE: AEL), a leading issuer of fixed index annuities (FIAs) today reported on its third quarter 2021 results. These results include substantial progress on the key goals of AEL 2.0 by closing a major reinsurance transaction with Brookfield that generates on-going fee revenues for American […]
AllianceBernstein Adds Jackson to its Lifetime Income Strategy Multi-Insurer Platform
{November 9th, 2021} by AllianceBerstein
NASHVILLE, Tenn., Nov. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — AllianceBernstein L.P. (“AB”) (NYSE: AB) announced it has added Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®), the main operating subsidiary of Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN), to its platform of insurers that provides guaranteed income in its Lifetime Income Strategy (LIS) retirement solution for Defined Contribution (DC) plans. As more plans are adopting LIS and assets […]
New study: for many older employees, there isn’t a Great Resignation, it’s the Great Delay
{November 9th, 2021} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Today many companies are grappling with the Great Resignation, primarily with employees ages 30 to 45 years. However, a new Nationwide Retirement Institute® survey of retirement plan sponsors and participants uncovered the Great Resignation doesn’t necessarily apply to older employees, with one in four employer-sponsored retirement plan participants ages 45 and older reporting that the […]
National Western Life Group, Inc. Announces 2021 Third Quarter Earnings
{November 9th, 2021} by National Western Life Group, Inc.
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Ross R. Moody, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer of National Western Life Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: NWLI), announced today third quarter 2021 consolidated net earnings of $39.8 million, or $11.27 per diluted Class A common share, compared with consolidated net earnings of $10.8 million, or $3.06 per diluted Class A common share, for the third […]
Midwest Holding Subsidiary American Life Introduces Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) Product for Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs)
{November 9th, 2021} by Midwest Holding INc
LINCOLN, Neb., Nov. 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Midwest Holding Inc. (“Midwest”) (NASDAQ: MDWT), a technology-enabled, services-oriented life and annuity platform, announced today that its subsidiary American Life & Security Corp. (ALSC) has launched its first Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) product for the registered investment advisor (RIA) market. “This is an important new initiative for American Life as we seek to […]
Retirement Product Innovation Bill Introduced In Senate
{November 9th, 2021} by Targeted News Service
A bill to lower barriers to innovative retirement income products by requiring the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to revise its rules regarding the development and offering of certain annuity products was introduced in the Senate this week. The measure is similar to a House bill introduced in July. The Registration for Index-Linked Annuities […]
Changing the Buying Process for Life Insurance
{November 9th, 2021} by Adam Erlebacher
Ten minutes instead of 10 weeks? That was when I realized we needed life insurance platforms built for the 21st-century family. When I became a dad, I tried to buy life insurance online. I filled out the form on an insurance company’s website, and instead of simply paying for it in a couple of minutes, […]
Athene Launch Alum to Create Another Annuity Business
{November 9th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Investcorp is jumping into the fixed annuity asset management market with help from an executive who was part of the effort to launch Athene Life Re. Cordillera Holdings — a new partnership controlled by Investcorp affiliates — announced Tuesday that a subsidiary, Bona Holdings, has acquired Sunset Life Insurance Co. of America from Kansas Life […]
Is “Generational Theory” Useful In Financial Services Marketing?
{November 9th, 2021} by Teresa Kuhn
While they introduced the term “millennial” to the world, William Strauss and Neil Howe were not the first researchers to promote the concept that generations can help explain changing societal attitudes. Social scientists have long tracked generations, writing about phenomena such as the post-World War II economic boom that seemed to coincide with a surge […]
Broker World: Allianz Life
{November 9th, 2021} by Broker World
Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life) recently announced that it has renewed $300,000 in grants to Twin Cities nonprofits focused on improving economic inclusion and security among underserved communities. The funds support financial literacy programs that teach money management, provide asset-building initiatives, and offer financial resources for people of all ages and […]
New Annuity to Tempt Fee-Based Advisors With Fatter Fixed Rate
{November 9th, 2021} by Cyril Tuohy
Registered investment advisors only account for 2% of variable annuity sales, based on data from research firm Wink. The number dips to less than 1% for three other categories of annuities: fixed-indexed, index-linked variable and multi-year guaranteed. Click HERE to read the full story via Life Annuity Specialist
NAIBLA ID Trends
{November 9th, 2021} by NAILBA
Wink, Inc shares the latest Q2 sales for all deferred annuity, indexed annuity and fixed annuity by quarter and distribution channel. Visit NAILBA.org/ID Trends for: Trends in life apps What’s impacting DI market Plus deep dive into annuities, top technology, and much more… Shifting into high gear for business success!
Prudential Financial, Inc. Announces Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 9th, 2021} by Prudential
November 02, 2021 04:18 PM Eastern Daylight Time NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) today reported third quarter results. Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. was $1.530 billion ($3.90 per Common share) for the third quarter of 2021, compared to net income of $1.487 billion ($3.70 per Common share) for the third […]
American Financial Group, Inc. Announces Third Quarter Results and Declares Special Dividend
{November 9th, 2021} by American Financial Group
CINCINNATI–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: AFG) today reported 2021 third quarter net earnings attributable to shareholders of $219 million ($2.56 per share) compared to $164 million ($1.86 per share) for the 2020 third quarter. Net earnings for the 2021 third quarter included after-tax non-core realized losses on securities of $12 million ($0.15 per share […]
Simplicity Acquires Sinclair Financial Solutions and Erin Sinclair and Donald Schneider Become Partners
{November 9th, 2021} by Simplicity Group
SUMMIT, N.J., Nov. 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Simplicity Group (“Simplicity”), one of the nation’s leading financial products distribution businesses, today announced the acquisition of the combined businesses of Erin Sinclair and Donald Schneider (“S&S”). The St Louis-based company, a financial services firm with a focus on holistic financial planning, is the 32nd company to join the Simplicity group of companies. With the successful closing of […]
Manulife reports 3Q21 net income of $1.6 billion and core earnings of $1.5 billion, double-digit new business value growth and strong net flows in Global Wealth and Asset Management with contributions across all business lines and geographies
{November 9th, 2021} by Manulife
TORONTO, Nov. 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – Today, Manulife announced its third quarter of 2021 (“3Q21”) results. Key highlights include: Net income attributed to shareholders of $1.6 billion in 3Q21, down $476 million from the third quarter of 2020 (“3Q20”). 3Q21 results included strong investment gains that offset a $532 million charge from the previously announced Ultimate Reinvestment Rate (“URR”) reduction. Core earnings1 of $1.5 billion in […]
Protective Life Insurance Company Diversifies Investment Banking Partners with Minority-Owned Investment Firms
{November 9th, 2021} by Protective Life Insurance Coporation
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Protective Life Insurance Corporation (Protective), a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. (TSE:8750), today announced a recent transaction that included four minority-owned investment banking firms for its funding agreement-backed notes (FABN) program. Protective selected CastleOak Securities, LP., Loop Capital Markets LLC, Siebert Williams Shank and Stern as active co-managers for the FABN transaction, which totaled $375 million. […]
An Interview With a Veteran
{November 9th, 2021} by Wink RockStars
The Wink officers are closed on Thursday, November 11th to honor Veterans Day. We want to say THANK YOU, we are proud of the military and war veterans who have served! We would like to take a moment to re-feature a very special veteran in our extended Wink family, Sheryl Moore’s father, Kurt S. Sundberg, […]
Brokerage in Motion
{November 9th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
This month’s “Brokerage in Motion” features a super sweet annuity nerd at 12-minute mark. -sjm
2022 Will Be a Year of Revolution in Insurance Product Creation
{November 9th, 2021} by Greg Murphy
As 2021, already a year of turbulence and change, draws to a close, forward-thinking insurers must avoid treading water if they want to succeed in today’s sink-or-swim market. Editor’s note: This article is part one of a four-part series explores the changes coming to the product manufacturing process. New and severe risks are evolving every day; the COVID-19 pandemic alone […]
DOL To Delay Dec. 20 Enforcement Of Investment Advice Rule
{November 2nd, 2021} by John Hilton
The Department of Labor will delay full enforcement of its investment advice rule for about six weeks until Jan. 31, 2022, according to a bulletin released Monday afternoon. The investment advice rule has two main parts: a new prohibited transaction exemption allowing advisors to provide conflicted advice for commissions; and a reinstatement of the “five-part […]
Northwestern Mutual’s 2022 Dividend Payout to Policyowners To Be Largest Ever – $6.5 Billion
{November 2nd, 2021} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, Oct. 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — During a time of continued economic uncertainty, Northwestern Mutual has maintained its unquestionable long-term financial strength and stability, and today announced that its policyowners will receive an estimated $6.5 billion in dividends next year. The 2022 payout will mark both a new record for Northwestern Mutual and 150 consecutive years of the company awarding […]
MassMutual approves estimated 2022 policyowner dividend payout of nearly $1.85 billion
{November 2nd, 2021} by MassMutual
SPRINGFIELD, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) announced today that its Board of Directors has approved an estimated 2022 dividend payout of nearly $1.85 billion – the highest payout in the company’s 170-year history. “In a rapidly changing world that continues to be filled with doubt and uncertainty, there are few things that people […]
Have you heard?
{November 2nd, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
The NAILBA CHARITABLE FOUNDATION‘s Live Auction & Reception will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 16 at the NAILBA 40 Annual Meeting in Orlando! The inimitable Steven Katz, CLU, ChFC will be our auctioneer, and up for bid will be incredible trips, tickets, and other “bucket list” experiences contributed by companies like AIG, Breeze, Brokers International, OneAmerica, Premier Brokerage Services, Protective Life, Prudential Financial, and more! […]
Private Equity Firms May Squeeze Insurers in New Ways: Regulation Analyst
{November 2nd, 2021} by Allison Bell
An insurance regulation expert says he and his colleagues may have to focus on new concerns when they look at insurers owned by private equity companies. Eric Kolchinsky, the director for structured securities and capital markets, talked about private equity firm ownership of insurers at a recent online meeting of the National Association of Insurance […]
Top articles for retirement advisors
{November 2nd, 2021} by Chana Schoenberger
Advisors trying to plan for their clients’ retirements faced a particularly tough last few months as the Biden Administration’s tax plans struggled to take shape and the market hit record highs coupled with increasing fears about inflation and supply-chain woes. With so much uncertainty about what clients’ tax rates are likely to be and which […]
North American® and Annexus Launch North American Secure Horizon Fixed Index Annuity (FIA) Suite
{November 2nd, 2021} by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® (North American), a member company of Sammons Financial Group and one of the largest issuers of fixed index annuities (FIAs) in the U.S., has joined forces with Annexus, a premier independent designer of FIAs, to launch two new innovative solutions. North American […]
FAs Increasingly Moving to Non-Traditional Fees
{November 2nd, 2021} by Alex Padalka
Investor demand, combined with growing awareness about fees, is pushing financial advisors to consider non-traditional fees, according to a new report. In 2011, only 35% of investors were aware of how they were paying for financial advice, but by the second quarter of 2020, that jumped to 55%, Cerulli says in a new report. Click HERE to […]
Penn Mutual strengthens life insurance portfolio
{November 2nd, 2021} by The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company
HORSHAM, Pa., Nov. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (Penn Mutual), a Fortune 1000 company, announces the introduction of two whole life insurance products that bolster its industry-leading portfolio. Guaranteed Whole Life II and Survivorship Whole Life provide guaranteed benefits and flexibility backed by more than 170 years of financial strength and consistent […]
Kansas City Life Announces Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 2nd, 2021} by Kansas City Life Insurance Company
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Kansas City Life Insurance Company recorded a net loss of $6.0 million or $0.62 per share in the third quarter of 2021 compared to a net loss of $1.2 million or $0.13 per share in the third quarter of 2020. Net loss totaled $2.4 million or $0.25 per share in the first nine months of 2021 compared to net income of $15.9 […]
Northwestern Mutual to Host Second Annual Women in Tech Conference to Educate, Connect & Inspire Technologists
{November 2nd, 2021} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, Oct. 28, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Northwestern Mutual today announced the company will host its second annual Women in Tech Conference on December 2. This free, virtual conference will gather top companies nationwide, women technologists, and their allies for a full-day event focused on professional development, empowerment, and collaboration with the goal of fostering a more diverse and inclusive tech community. […]
Transamerica’s Research Finds Retirement Plan Participants Embrace Virtual Education
{November 2nd, 2021} by Transamerica
BALTIMORE, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Transamerica today announced key findings from research centered on how retirement plan sponsors and participants have fared during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the requirement to move from in-person to virtual education has impacted engagement. Transamerica found that remote and virtual meetings actually resulted in reaching more employees because of greater […]
iPipeline Selected for 2021 Global InsurTech100 Award
{November 2nd, 2021} by iPipeline
EXTON, Pa., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — iPipeline®, a leading provider of no code / low code content-based digital solutions for the life insurance and financial services industry, today announced it has been selected as a winner of the 2021 Global InsurTech100 Award. A panel of industry analysts and experts, who reviewed companies’ applications and research […]
Midwest Holding Schedules Conference Call to Discuss Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 2nd, 2021} by Midwest Holding Inc
LINCOLN, Neb., Oct. 28, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Midwest Holding Inc. (“Midwest”) (NASDAQ: MDWT) today announced plans to host a conference call to discuss financial and operating results for the third quarter 2021 on Friday, November 12, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The Company also plans to release its third quarter fiscal year 2021 results on the investor relations section […]
Sammons Financial Group Among Top Companies in U.S. for Work-Life Balance
{November 2nd, 2021} by Sammons Financial Group, Inc.
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 28, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Sammons® Financial Group has been named a top company for work-life balance, according to a recent Glassdoor report. Glassdoor is a worldwide leader on insights about jobs and companies and has previously named Sammons Financial Group to its Best Places to Work list the past three years in a row. In its most recent survey […]
CNO Financial Group Reports Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 2nd, 2021} by CNO Financial Group, Inc.
CARMEL, Ind., Oct. 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — CNO Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: CNO) today announced that for the quarter ending September 30, 2021, net income was $99.8 million, or $0.77 per diluted share, compared to a net income of $129.2 million, or $0.91 per diluted share, in 3Q20. Net operating income (1) in 3Q21 was $92.8 million, or $0.72 per diluted share, compared to $112.6 million, or $0.79 per diluted share, in […]
Americans Split on Biggest Concern in Retirement: Running out of Time vs. Running out Money
{November 2nd, 2021} by TIAA
NEW YORK, Oct. 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Nearly half of working Americans worry about running out of money in retirement (45%), while the rest (55%) say running out of time to do what they want in retirement is a bigger concern, according to TIAA’s 2021 Lifetime Income Survey. “Retirement can evoke many conflicting emotions,” said Doug Chittenden, head of Client […]
Best’s Special Report: New NAIC Risk-Based Capital Factors Heighten Investment Risk for Life/Health Insurers
{November 2nd, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A new set of risk-based capital (RBC) factors taking effect in 2021 could temper allocations to lower-rated bonds by insurers looking to capture higher yields according to an AM Best report. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC) RBC factors will be changing for 2021 filings, and with the change to 20 designations from six, […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Aegon N.V.’s U.S. Subsidiaries
{November 2nd, 2021} 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 U.S. life/health subsidiaries of Aegon N.V. (Aegon) (Netherlands) [NYSE: AEG]. Aegon’s U.S. life/health companies are referred to collectively as Aegon USA Group (Aegon USA). The outlook of these Credit […]
DPL Financial Partners Rolls out New Allianz Life RILA for Advisors
{November 2nd, 2021} by DPL Financial Partners
LOUISVILLE, Ky.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–DPL Financial Partners (“DPL”), the leading turnkey insurance platform for registered investment advisors (“RIAs”), today announced the launch of a unique, commission-free registered index linked annuity (RILA) that combines various levels of protection against market risk during accumulation with guaranteed income options for investors. Currently, Allianz Index Advantage Income ADV℠ Variable Annuity is […]
Ameriprise Financial Reports Third Quarter 2021 Results
{November 2nd, 2021} by Ameriprise
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (NYSE: AMP): Earnings Per Diluted Share Return on Equity, ex AOCI (1) Q3 2021 Q3 2021 GAAP $8.65 GAAP 41.7% Adjusted Operating $5.86 Adjusted Operating 47.8% Adjusted Operating Ex. Unlocking(2) $5.91 Adjusted Operating Ex. Unlocking(2) 47.9% Third quarter adjusted operating earnings per diluted share excluding […]
Annuity Providers Become Key Drivers of Satisfaction as Customers Adopt Digital Channels, J.D. Power Finds
{November 2nd, 2021} by J.D. Power
TROY, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Despite the fact that more than three-fourths of individual annuity accounts are sold by financial advisors or insurance agents, customer satisfaction is increasingly being driven by direct engagement with providers. According to the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Individual Annuity Study,SM released today, customer engagement with provider websites and direct communications from their provider have […]
Ares Management Corporation Highlights Third Quarter and Last Twelve Months U.S. Direct Lending Commitments
{November 2nd, 2021} by Ares Management Corporation
LOS ANGELES–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Ares Management Corporation (NYSE: ARES) is providing details on certain new financing commitments made across its U.S. direct lending strategies. Funds managed by Ares Management Corporation’s Credit Group (collectively “Ares”) closed approximately $7.2 billion in commitments across 54 transactions during the third quarter of 2021 and approximately $27.0 billion in commitments across 244 […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and Its Subsidiaries
{November 2nd, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “aa-” (Superior) of 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 […]
37 Ameriprise Financial Advisors Named to Working Mother Magazine’s Top Wealth Advisor List
{November 2nd, 2021} by Ameriprise
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Ameriprise Financial today announced that 37 financial advisors were named to Working Mother Magazine’s 2021 list of the “Top Wealth Advisor Moms” in the country. The list recognizes successful mothers who work in the wealth management industry and care for children who are 21 years or younger. The advisors are ranked based on assets under management, […]
New Diverse Business Program From MassMutual to Impact 175 Businesses Over Next Five Years
{November 2nd, 2021} by MassMutual
SPRINGFIELD, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–On the heels of announcing a $150 million commitment to utilizing underrepresented diverse businesses in its procurement process, Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) today announced a new diverse business program in partnership with Dartmouth College and Stanford University aimed to help diverse businesses thrive and grow. The program will impact 175 businesses over the […]
New York Life Wealth Watch Survey Finds Nearly One in Three Millennials Have Saved an Average of over $4,200.00 Since the Onset of the COVID-19 Crisis
{November 2nd, 2021} by New York Life
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The latest New York Life Wealth Watch survey found that nearly one-in-three Millennials (29%) reported having built a nest egg, saving an average of $4,241.21 due to paused costs such as deferred student loans, fewer daily expenses, and forgoing leases to move home with parents. Further, a higher number in this cohort now […]
AIG names new CFO with life and retirement unit split under way
{November 2nd, 2021} by Reuters
Oct 25 (Reuters) – American International Group (AIG.N) said on Monday it has appointed insider Shane Fitzsimons as its chief financial officer, replacing Mark Lyons, as the insurer prepares for the separation of its life and retirement business. Fitzsimons joined AIG in July 2019 and was most recently serving as the insurer’s chief administrative officer. Click HERE […]
Prudential Financial commits to net zero emissions by 2050
{November 2nd, 2021} by Prudential Financial
NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) today announced its commitment to achieve net zero emissions across its primary domestic and international home office operations by 2050. To accelerate the company’s longstanding commitments to mitigate the impacts of climate change, Prudential also is setting an interim goal to become carbon neutral by 2040. These actions […]
Allstate Completes Sale of Life and Annuity Businesses
{November 2nd, 2021} by The Allstate Corporation
NORTHBROOK, Ill.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) today announced that it has closed the sale of Allstate Life Insurance Company (ALIC) and certain subsidiaries to entities managed by Blackstone for total proceeds of $4 billion, which is inclusive of Blackstone’s approximately $2.8 billion purchase price, as well as increases in statutory surplus since March 31, 2020. […]
Impaired Risk Life Underwriting: Past, Present and Future
{November 2nd, 2021} by Robert Goldstone
In 1987, Ronald Reagan was finishing what might be later referred to as an “impaired” presidency, the Minnesota Twins won their first World Series, and we were entering what would become the Renaissance of Impaired Risk Underwriting as a force to be reckoned with. I was practicing Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, and was looking to […]
An “Opportunity For Improvement” In Independent Distribution
{November 2nd, 2021} by Charlie Gipple
I have written before about my son, Matthew, who is the most creative kid I have ever seen. So, I will start this column with a quick story about Matthew. A couple of years ago he and his older brother were sent home from school to do a fundraising project where they would have to […]
Life Carriers, Distributors And Vendors Collaborating On Key Technology Initiatives
{November 2nd, 2021} by Ken Leibow
The life insurance industry is coming together to work on some key initiatives in 2021. The governance of these projects are spearheaded by industry associations like the Life Distribution Technology Committee (LDTC) and ACORD. This is not new as many of our associations have developed projects in the past such as LIDMA’s Process Improvement Team […]
The Technological Shift In Life Insurance Underwriting
{November 2nd, 2021} by Greg Horak
When I started working in the life insurance industry twenty-five some odd years ago the technological revolution that started in the late 90’s and took off like a rocket at the turn of the century hadn’t yet started. Email existed and some of the employees at life insurance companies had email accounts…but most didn’t. The […]
