Moore on the Market 8/5/2026
{August 5th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Good morning! Here’s the latest life/annuity product news, delivered FREE to your inbox… ANNUITY 07/20/26: AuguStar Life Insurance Company launched their AuguStar LunarLock Prime 5 as a proprietary offering for a specific distributor’s shelf. This product has improved rates over the national version of the annuity. 07/27/26: Nationwide Life Insurance Company […]
Delaware Life Launches New FIA with Premium Bonus and Accessibility Features
{August 5th, 2026} by Cyril Tuohy
The roll out of TrackGuard+ comes at a time when Delaware Life broke into the top-five FIA sellers in the first quarter, its highest ranking in any three-month period since 2004, according to industry tracker Wink. The insurer offers as many as eight different families of FIAs, according to its website. Read at Life Annuity Specialist …………………………………………………………………………………… […]
Pacific Life Introduces New Era for Last Survivor Indexed Universal Life Insurance
{August 5th, 2026} by Pacific Life Insurance Company
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Pacific Life Insurance Company announced today the launch of Pacific Horizon Survivorship IUL 2,1 a next-generation survivorship indexed universal life insurance product built for a rapidly evolving legacy-planning landscape.2 It replaces Pacific Horizon Survivorship IUL and offers even more customized coverage than its top-ranking predecessor. “Survivorship life insurance has always played a pivotal role in financial […]
GOP Lawmakers Introduce ‘SMART Savings Act’ to Modernize IRA Rules
{August 5th, 2026} by Brian Anderson
Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) and Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) on July 30 introduced the Simplifying Modern Access to Retirement Tools for Savings (SMART) Act of 2026, legislation seeking to modernize outdated federal rules governing individual retirement accounts (IRAs), reduce costs and expand access to retirement investment options. Read at 401kspecalistmag
Indexed annuity updates from Corebridge and Delaware Life
{August 5th, 2026} by Editorial Staff
Corebridge Financial has added a GMAB and ‘preset allocations’ to some of its Power Series of Index Annuities. Delaware Life has launched ‘TrackGuard+’. Read at RIJ
Group 1001’s ‘affiliated transactions’ spark federal investigation
{August 5th, 2026} by Editorial Staff
In other Bermuda Triangle news, Lincoln sets investment deal with Bain Capital, reinsurance deals with Fortitude and Talcott; Venerable to manage Guardian variable annuity assets. Read at RIJ
Mapping Private Markets, the Apex of the Bermuda Triangle
{August 5th, 2026} by Staff
In a recent report, “Understanding the Growth of Private Markets: Structural Shifts in the Investment Industry,” the CFA Institute’s Research and Policy Center has done a useful service to Bermuda Triangle watchers by mapping the world of private market assets and its stakeholders. (See chart above/at right.) Read at RIJ
Jackson Financial CEO caps 40-year career with blockbuster Q2
{August 5th, 2026} by John Hilton
Tuesday saw Jackson Financial CEO Laura Prieskorn deliver her final quarterly earnings report, concluding her 40-year career with robust results. Retail annuity sales of $5.9 billion were up 34% from the second quarter of 2025, including record registered index-linked annuity sales of $2.3 billion, up 69% from the year-ago quarter. Jackson posted adjusted operating earnings […]
How AGI’s new AI-driven platform changes the game for advisors
{August 5th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Atlanta-based American Growth Insurance recently announced its launch as an AI-enabled insurance brokerage growth platform with almost $70 million in committed equity funding. Backed by Rockbridge Growth Equity, a partnership-oriented middle market private equity firm, and Atomic, a venture capital studio, AGI is a retail brokerage in the specialty market serving commercial and personal lines […]
Judge again tosses Penn Mutual whole life lawsuit alleging tax scam
{August 5th, 2026} by John Hilton
A California federal judge again threw out a lawsuit accusing Penn Mutual Life Insurance Co. and its codefendants of running a whole life insurance tax-avoidance scam. In her ruling last week, however, Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett gave the 29 plaintiffs one final opportunity to revive several fraud-related claims through an amended complaint. Plaintiffs have 21 […]
NAIC regulators begin consensus phase on annuity illustration overhaul
{August 5th, 2026} by John Hilton
A National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ working group is moving into a new phase of its effort to overhaul annuity illustration rules, shifting from collecting ideas to building consensus on potential changes to Model Regulation 245. The Life Insurance and Annuities Illustrations Working Group held the first of four conference calls on Thursday, designed […]
Market-value adjusted annuities: Key considerations for advisors
{August 5th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Like most financial products, market value-adjusted (MVA) fixed annuities come with trade-offs. In exchange for potentially higher interest rates, any withdrawals above the free withdrawal limit during the surrender period may be adjusted, depending on how interest rates have changed since the annuity was purchased. Read at INN
Private equity’s next play in insurance
{August 5th, 2026} by Chris Taylor
Private equity’s playbook in insurance is well-established: Acquire or back a carrier, gain control of substantial long-duration liabilities and deploy the resulting float into higher-yielding private credit and alternative investments. This model has proven highly effective at optimizing existing blocks of business. Read at INN
Sammons to Get a Homegrown Chairman and CEO
{August 5th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Sammons Financial Group has picked Rob TeKolste, a Sammons executive, to take over from Esfand Dinshaw as the head of the company Jan. 1, 2027. Dinshaw has been the West Des Moines, Iowa-based life and annuity issuer’s chairman and chief executive officer. TeKolste is on track to have both titles, the company said earlier this […]
Keep Annuity Math and Disclosures Separate, Industry Groups Say
{August 5th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Actuarial rule writers should stick with regulating life and annuity math. They should not use their rapid actuarial guideline creation process to regulate product disclosures. Groups for life and annuity issuers, actuaries, and the people who distribute and sell the products have made that case in comments sent to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ […]
Life and Annuity Issuers Prepare to Post Q2 Numbers
{August 5th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Publicly traded life and annuity issuers will start to post their earnings for the second quarter next week. Executives from most of the issuers will also hold conference calls with securities analysts. Read at Think Advisor
Q2 Sales of Traditional Variable Annuities Rose 25%
{August 5th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Traditional variable annuities were the hottest products LIMRA tracked. Sales of registered index-linked annuities rose 22%, year over year, to $23 billion, and sales of all types of individual fixed annuities fell 4%, to $83 billion. Overall individual annuity sales rose 4%, to $124 billion. Read at Think Advisor
New Research Challenges 4% Rule With Hybrid Approach
{August 5th, 2026} by Rob Burgess
For decades, the 4% withdrawal rule has been the gold standard for retirement spending. But new research is challenging that strategy with a hybrid approach. The research from Mark Warshawsky, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and Gaobo Pang and commissioned by the American Council of Life Insurers, found that while the 4% plan works, […]
Prudential Financial, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2026 Results
{August 5th, 2026} by Prudential Financial, Inc.
NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) today reported second quarter 2026 results. Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. of $985 million or $2.80 per Common share versus net income of $533 million or $1.48 per share for the year-ago quarter. The current quarter included a net after-tax charge from our annual assumption update […]
Equitable Holdings Reports Second Quarter 2026 Results
{August 5th, 2026} by Equitable Holdings, Inc
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Equitable Holdings, Inc. (“Equitable Holdings”, “Holdings”, or the “Company”) (NYSE: EQH) today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026. “During the second quarter, we made significant progress on the merger with Corebridge while also delivering strong financial results. We reported Non-GAAP operating earnings per share of $1.70, or $1.75 […]
Corebridge Financial Announces Second Quarter 2026 Results
{August 5th, 2026} by Corebridge Financial
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial, Inc. (“Corebridge” or the “Company”) (NYSE: CRBG) today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026. “We are pleased with our performance in the second quarter, having executed across the organization to deliver strong earnings, resilient sales, and consistent cash generation,” said Marc Costantini, President and Chief Executive Officer. […]
Jackson Announces Record Second Quarter 2026 Results
{August 5th, 2026} by Jackson Financial Inc.
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN) (Jackson®) today announced its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026. Second Quarter 2026 Key Highlights Retail annuity sales1 of $5.9 billion, up 34% from the second quarter of 2025, including record registered index-linked annuity (RILA) sales of $2.3 billion, which were up 69% from the second […]
Sammons Financial Group Announces Leadership Transition
{August 5th, 2026} by Sammons Financial Group
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sammons Financial Group today announced a planned leadership transition designed to support the company’s continued long-term growth and strategic direction. Effective Jan. 1, 2027, President Rob TeKolste will assume the dual roles of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. Current Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Esfand Dinshaw will retire at the end of […]
AM Best Revises Outlooks to Negative for Subsidiaries of Group 1001 Insurance Holdings, LLC
{August 5th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has revised the outlooks to negative from positive and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “a-” (Excellent) of the following subsidiaries of Group 1001 Insurance Holdings, LLC: Delaware Life Insurance Company and Clear Spring Life and Annuity Company (both domiciled […]
Talcott Financial Group Announces $6 Billion Reinsurance Transaction with Lincoln Financial
{August 5th, 2026} by Talcott Financial Group
HARTFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Talcott Financial Group (“Talcott”), an international life insurance group providing comprehensive risk solutions for customers across the retirement and insurance industry, today announced a $6.3 billion reinsurance transaction with Lincoln Financial, a trusted provider of retail life and annuity solutions and workplace benefits. Under the terms of the agreement, Talcott will reinsure an […]
Lincoln Financial Reports 2026 Second Quarter Results
{August 5th, 2026} by Lincoln Financial Group
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026. Strong second quarter performance and improved profitability, reflecting continued progress against our strategic and financial objectives. Second quarter net income available to common stockholders was $1.3 billion, or $6.72 per diluted share. Second quarter adjusted operating income […]
Anxious but Opportunistic, Investors Aren’t Waiting Out Uncertainty
{August 5th, 2026} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Inflation and market volatility have created one of the most complex financial environments in recent memory, causing more than three in four (77%) non-retired investors to be concerned about a U.S. economic recession over the next 12 months. However, recent data from the Nationwide Retirement Institute reveals that rather than retreating, a […]
Plutus Launches Agentic Platform for Life and Annuity Operations, Bringing Purpose-Built AI to the Workflows That Define Service Quality for Life and Annuity Carriers
{August 5th, 2026} by Plutus Technology Solutions Inc.
CHICAGO, July 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Plutus, the insurance AI company building the industry’s first insurance-native agentic platform, today announced the launch of the Plutus Agentic Platform for Life and Annuity Operations. The platform delivers six purpose-built agentic solutions organized around the way life and annuity operations actually work — transaction workflows, cross-cutting controls, and book-level remediation […]
Financial Pressures Are Pushing Younger Americans to Delay – and Sometimes Abandon – Life’s Biggest Milestones
{August 5th, 2026} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, Aug. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A significant share of young adults in America say financial pressures are reshaping the timelines – and in some cases the very possibility – of the lives they imagined for themselves. From marriage and homeownership to starting a family, many Gen Z and Millennial adults report delaying major milestones, and an […]
Kansas City Life Announces Second Quarter 2026 Results
{August 5th, 2026} by Kansas City Life Insurance Company
KANSAS CITY, Mo., July 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Kansas City Life Insurance Company recorded net income of $7.8 million or $0.80 per share in the second quarter of 2026 compared to a net loss of $28.7 million or $2.96 per share in the second quarter of 2025. The primary factor for the increase in net income in […]
CNO Financial Group Reports Second Quarter 2026 Results
{August 5th, 2026} by CNO Financial Group, Inc.
CARMEL, Ind., July 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CNO Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: CNO) today reported its second quarter 2026 financial results: Strong execution and momentum continues; Raising 2026 operating earnings per share (EPS) guidance by 8% at the midpoint from our prior guidance. Net income was $126 million, or $1.33 per diluted share, and net operating income(1) was $120 […]
Royal Neighbors of America Unveils Its 2026 Scholarship Recipients
{August 5th, 2026} by Royal Neighbors of America
ROCK ISLAND, Ill., July 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Royal Neighbors of America®, one of the nation’s fastest growing life insurance organizations1 based in Rock Island, Ill., has proudly awarded 32 college scholarships to student members across the country as part of its longstanding commitment to provide Insurance with a Difference℠. Each recipient received a scholarship in recognition of […]
MetLife Innovation: Putting the Annuity Test Drive in Reverse
{August 5th, 2026} by Tamiko Toland
Wink’s Moore on the Market: (This post is not about the free-look period on annuities.) Who wouldn’t want a cancellation option on their income annuity? Looks like it is happening in the in-plan market. This seems like it would overcome a number of objections from both clients and agents. Thoughts? -sjm …………………………. Ho-hum […]
Annuity sales hit a record as war and Fed jitters redraw fixed income
{August 5th, 2026} by Leo Almazora
Record annuity demand for principal protection collides with the most hawkish Fed dissent since 2016. Read at InvestmentNews
SILAC and The Index Standard Advance a New Benchmark for Transparency in Fixed Indexed Annuity Renewal Rates
{August 5th, 2026} by SILAC Insurance Company
CARMEL, Ind.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–SILAC Insurance Company (“SILAC”), a leading provider of fixed indexed annuities (FIAs), today announced a collaboration with The Index Standard to advance a new level of transparency within the FIA industry through an independent assessment of carrier historical renewal rate performance. For years, financial professionals evaluating FIAs have had access to initial rates, product features, and […]
Dave Ramsey calls whole life insurance agents ‘crooks’ pushing fear of economic collapse for 20x commissions
{August 5th, 2026} by Emma Caplan-Fisher
When Chris called The Ramsey Show to share that he’d been pitched whole life insurance as a hedge against an economic collapse, he wasn’t sure about it. Financial advisors referred by his sister had recommended switching from term life to whole life insurance. Their pitch: If the stock market collapsed at retirement, the cash value of a […]
Moore Market Intelligence 7/29/2026
{July 29th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Good morning! Here’s the latest life/annuity product news, delivered FREE to your inbox… ANNUITY 07/15/26: Eagle Life Insurance Company discontinued sales on their Lifetime Income Benefit Rider (LIBR) with a 14% rollup GLWB. Meanwhile, on the LIBR 12% rollup GLWB, the company modified their payout factors to be based on issue age […]
Corebridge Financial Enhances The Power Series of Index Annuities with New Accumulation and Diversification Capabilities
{July 29th, 2026} by Corebridge Financial
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial today announced the addition of Protected Growth Benefit and preset allocation options to select versions of The Power Series of Index Annuities®, enhancing the accumulation and diversification capabilities of the company’s index annuity lineup. Corebridge research found that protecting and growing retirement savings are both key goals for pre-retirees ages 45+, with […]
Delaware Life Launches a New Bonus Fixed Index Annuity Built for Growth, Protection, and Flexibility
{July 29th, 2026} by Delaware Life Insurance Company
ZIONSVILLE, Ind.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Delaware Life Insurance Company, a leading provider of innovative and customizable financial solutions, today launched TrackGuard+™, a bonus fixed index annuity (FIA) that combines a high upfront premium bonus, a strong lineup of index crediting strategies, enhanced in-contract liquidity, and principal protection in a single solution. The new product accelerates contract value on […]
The 100 Best Annuities. How to Avoid Common Mistakes and Pick the Right One.
{July 29th, 2026} by Karen Hube
Investors are turning to annuities at an unprecedented pace as a record number of Americans turn 65 and face the most dreaded of all retirement risks: running out of money. As a peak 4.2 million Americans reached retirement age in 2025 and the massive demographic wave continues, annuity sales surged to a high of $464 […]
Many Americans Would Delay Retirement To Help Family Members
{July 29th, 2026} by Christopher C. Williams
With the stock markets doing so well, many Americans feel that their portfolios are ample enough that they can start thinking about a comfortable life in retirement sooner rather than later. Some recent surveys report that many are itching to ditch the 9-to-5 world before age 60. But there’s one obstacle that might delay their dash […]
Canvas steps into the direct-to-consumer market that has yet to take off
{July 29th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Wink’s Moore on the Market: I am FEELING this! “Since Canvas Annuity was built as a direct-to-consumer company from the start rather than retrofitted onto a commission-based sales model, we’re able to pass the benefits directly to consumers in the form of higher crediting rates or increased lifetime income payments.” I have seen so many […]
Jackson Taps Its Next President and CEO
{July 29th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Wink’s Moore on the Market: I will miss Laura Prieskorn‘s leadership at Jackson, and it is sad to say that we are losing another female in an executive position the the life insurance industry. Retirement is not a bad thing though! That said, I am excited to see how Don Cummings moves the company forward, […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of New York Life Insurance Company and Its Subsidiaries
{July 29th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A++ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICRs) of “aaa” (Exceptional) of New York Life Insurance Company, New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation (NYLIAC), Life Insurance Company of North America (LINA), New York Life Group Insurance Company of NY (NYLGICNY) and NYLIFE […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America
{July 29th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A++ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of “aaa” (Exceptional) of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA) (New York, NY). In addition, AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings (Long-Term IRs) of “aa” (Superior). (Please see complete listing of Long-Term […]
AM Best Assigns Credit Ratings to Ability Insurance Company
{July 29th, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has assigned a Financial Strength Rating of B+ (Good) and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb-” (Good) to Ability Insurance Company (AIC) (Lincoln, NE). The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect AIC’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as adequate, as well as its […]
Global Atlantic Featured in Barron’s 100 Best Annuities Guide
{July 29th, 2026} 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, announced its inclusion in Barron’s annual 100 Best Annuities guide, marking the firm’s fifth consecutive year of recognition. This year’s rankings reflect the strength of Global Atlantic’s product lineup and continued focus on delivering innovative retirement products designed to meet […]
Mark Walter’s Insurers, Guggenheim Probed by Prosecutors
{July 29th, 2026} by Zachary R Mider and Ava Benny-Morrison
The billionaire Los Angeles Dodgers owner Mark Walter’s sprawling investment empire is facing scrutiny from US prosecutors, who have been investigating potential financial improprieties at two of his insurance companies and at Guggenheim Partners LLC, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Walter’s Delaware Life Insurance Co. and Clear Spring Life and Annuity Co. […]
Prudential Reimburses 2.85 Billion Yen After Misconduct Probe
{July 29th, 2026} by Nil Codina Martine
Prudential Financial Inc. said it reimbursed 437 individuals about a total of 2.85 billion yen ($17.4 million) as part of remediation efforts following a regulatory probe into employee misconduct at its Japan business. In addition to the 498 individuals who presented claims as announced on Jan. 16, an independent panel at the company has reviewed […]
Has your annuity been reinsured in the Cayman Islands? Here’s why it matters
{July 29th, 2026} by Thomas Leonardi
What happens when a foundational promise of the retirement security system is broken? The collapse of PHL Variable Life Insurance Co. is a stark, unsettling answer. For policyholders depending on guaranteed retirement income, it is a cautionary tale about what can go wrong when an insurer loses its financial footing — and when the system designed to catch it looks […]
‘I wish I’d met him sooner:’ Karlan Tucker remembered for integrity, faith
{July 29th, 2026} by John Hilton
Karlan Tucker liked to close out Tucker Financial Group sales and training conferences by sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was an unusual injection of religion in a financial services event. Some attendees say they have never seen it anywhere else in the business. But nobody questioned Karlan Tucker’s sincerity or commitment to his […]
Why women must be more engaged in investing
{July 29th, 2026} by Ayo Mseka
Although women will inherit a significant portion of the trillions of dollars that will be bequeathed to heirs over the next two decades, many of them are not engaged in investing as much as their male counterparts. Two Million Dollar Round Table members, Ann Baker Ronn and Danielle Lucht, recently shared why women must be […]
Ameriprise CEO: Some Advisor Firm Deals Look ‘Crazy’
{July 29th, 2026} by Allison Bell
How rich are the deals that some companies are offering for financial advisors’ practices? Too rich, according to Jim Cracchiolo, the chairman and chief executive officer of Ameriprise. Ameriprise posted earnings for the second quarter Thursday and held a conference call to discuss its results with securities analysts. -Read at Think Advisor
Keep Annuity Math and Disclosures Separate, Industry Groups Say
{July 29th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Actuarial rule writers should stick with regulating life and annuity math. They should not use their rapid actuarial guideline creation process to regulate product disclosures. Groups for life and annuity issuers, actuaries, and the people who distribute and sell the products have made that case in comments sent to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ […]
Stop Chasing a ‘Magic Number’ for Retirement
{July 29th, 2026} by Allison Schrager of Bloomberg News
It used to be a considered something of a tawdry question, although it could be flattering as well: “What’s your number?” Nowadays, your inquisitor is probably asking about retirement — as in, how much you think you need to retire. And, as it often was before, it’s the wrong question. -Read at Advisor Perspectives
Redacted commission statements
{July 29th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Anyone have some redacted commission statements they can send me (online or Excel)? Trying to see how these are laid out. If you’ve got it, I’ll take ’em. sjm@intelrockstar.com (If you recall, I am still struggling with my LinkedIn Direct Messages.) Thank you! -sjm
Retirement Health Solutions Joins Integrity to Enhance Growth and Client Service through AI-Driven Technology
{July 29th, 2026} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, July 28, 2026 /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 acquired Retirement Health Solutions, an independent marketing organization based near Salt Lake City, Utah, and led by David Burns, Chris Phelps and Mark Jensen. Financial details of the […]
The life insurance / annuity industry lost a good one late last week.
{July 29th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Please keep Karlan Tucker’s family and the team at Tucker Advisors in your prayers. Your Dad always supported me Ashton Tucker. I appreciate the opportunity to have worked with him, your team, and the agents you serve. To #TheAlmightyNetwork– Please share any great stories you have about Karlan. No doubt Ashton, Jason Lechuga and our […]
Anxious but Opportunistic, Investors Aren’t Waiting Out Uncertainty
{July 29th, 2026} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Inflation and market volatility have created one of the most complex financial environments in recent memory, causing more than three in four (77%) non-retired investors to be concerned about a U.S. economic recession over the next 12 months. However, recent data from the Nationwide Retirement Institute reveals that rather than retreating, a […]
Guardian appoints Kevin Luebbers as Head of Distribution to accelerate growth across wealth management
{July 29th, 2026} by Guardian
NEW YORK, July 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) today announced the appointment of Kevin Luebbers as Head of Distribution, responsible for leading the sales and distribution strategy for its individual markets businesses. Reporting to Mike Perry, Head of Client Solutions and Wealth Management, Luebbers will help further integrate and scale Guardian’s […]
LIMRA predicts strong life and annuity sales for the rest of 2026
{July 29th, 2026} by Susan Rupe
Life insurance and annuity sales hit records in 2025 and there’s every indication that those products will continue to see strong growth through the end of this year. LIMRA researchers gave their predictions for life insurance and annuity sales during a recent LinkedIn Live event. Read at INN
Heartland National Launches Secure Rate Pro MYGA Series with Guaranteed Rates Up to 6.15%
{July 29th, 2026} by Heartland National
INDEPENDENCE, MO, UNITED STATES, June 23, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Heartland National Life Insurance Company has announced the launch of Secure Rate Pro, a new Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) series offering guaranteed interest rates of up to 6.15% for clients seeking principal protection, tax-deferred growth, and predictable accumulation. The single-premium deferred fixed annuity provides guaranteed rate periods of 3, 5, 7, […]
Equity Indexed Life Insurance Market to Grow with More Strength in Years to Come
{July 29th, 2026} by HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited
The latest study released on the Global Equity Indexed Life Insurance Market by HTF MI Research evaluates market size, trend, and forecast to 2033. The Equity Indexed Life Insurance study covers significant research data and proofs to be a handy resource document for managers, analysts, industry experts and other key people to have ready-to-access and […]
There is not one single day that goes by without me thinking about my son, my firstborn- AJ Betts.
{July 27th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Thirteen years ago today, you seemed happy. You gave me a ride home. You hugged me. Did I tell you I love you? I don’t recall. You complained that the kids from school were telling you that you were going to h*ll for being gay. “Do you want me to pull you out of the […]
Moore On the Market 7/22/2026
{July 22nd, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Good evening! Here’s the latest life/annuity product news, delivered FREE to your inbox… ANNUITY 07/15/26: Eagle Life pulled one of their Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefits (GLWBs), modified their payout factors on another, and changed their GLWB pricing so that issue age and years in deferral are both taken into consideration in their new payouts. […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Ceres Life Insurance Company
{July 22nd, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb+” (Good) of Ceres Life Insurance Company (Ceres Life) (Austin, TX). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect Ceres Life’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as […]
Malibu Life Receives ‘A-’ Financial Strength Ratings from KBRA Ahead of U.S. Retail Annuity Launch
{July 22nd, 2026} by Malibu Life Holdings Limited
GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Malibu Life Holdings Limited (“Malibu Life” or the “Company”), a London Stock Exchange-listed insurance holding company focused on the U.S. retirement and annuity market, today announced that Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA) has assigned an A- Insurance Financial Strength Ratings, each with a Stable Outlook, to TruSpire Retirement Insurance Company, operating under […]
KBRA Assigns Rating to TruSpire Retirement Insurance Company
{July 22nd, 2026} by KBRA
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–KBRA assigns an A- insurance financial strength rating (IFSR) to TruSpire Retirement Insurance Company (“TruSpire”). The Outlook for the rating is Stable. Key Credit Considerations The rating reflects TruSpire’s strong current capitalization relative to its legacy run-off block, unlevered statutory capital base, conservative and liquid investment portfolio, sound legacy asset adequacy results, and […]
NEW TIAA INSTITUTE SURVEY FINDS THREE IN FOUR OF TODAY’S RETIREES WISH THEY HAD SAVED EARLIER AND SAVED MORE
{July 22nd, 2026} by TIAA
NEW YORK, July 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A new TIAA Institute study uncovers a striking gap for today’s current American retiree: what they expect from retirement does not always match reality and that difference can carry significant financial consequences. The report Bridging the Gaps in Retirement Expectations: New Evidence and Insights identifies actionable strategies to help close those gaps before […]
USAA Life Insurance Company Introduces New Secure Start™ Whole Life Policy For Children’s Lifelong Coverage
{July 22nd, 2026} by USAA
SAN ANTONIO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–USAA Life Insurance Company is expanding its life insurance portfolio to serve families across generations with the launch of USAA Secure Start™ Whole Life. This new insurance product for children is designed to do more than provide financial protection in the unexpected – it makes it easier for parents and grandparents to build lasting […]
Fidelity National Financial Announces Second Quarter 2026 Earnings Release and Conference Call
{July 22nd, 2026} by Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE: FNF) (FNF), a leading provider of title insurance and transaction services to the real estate and mortgage industries and a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients through its majority-owned, publicly traded subsidiary F&G Annuities & Life, Inc. (NYSE: FG) […]
F&G Annuities & Life Announces Second Quarter 2026 Earnings Release and Conference Call
{July 22nd, 2026} by F&G Annuities & Life, Inc.
DES MOINES, Iowa, July 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — F&G Annuities & Life, Inc. (NYSE: FG) (F&G), a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients, will release second quarter 2026 earnings after the close of regular market trading on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. A webcast and conference call to discuss the results […]
Americans Aren’t Giving Up on the American Dream, They’re Redefining It as Financial Stability
{July 22nd, 2026} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Americans still believe they can achieve financial success, but the definition of success is changing. According to the first-ever Nationwide Financial Growth & Protection Index powered by the Nationwide Retirement Institute, rising costs and economic uncertainty are reshaping the American Dream with consumers increasingly prioritizing financial stability, resilience and protection over […]
S&P assigns Constellation’s core insurance subsidiary a financial strength rating of ‘A-‘
{July 22nd, 2026} by S&P
NEW YORK, July 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Constellation Insurance, Inc., announces today that S&P Global Ratings has assigned a financial strength rating to its core operating subsidiary, AuguStar® Life Insurance Company of ‘A-‘ with a stable outlook and has assigned an issuer credit rating on the holding company, Constellation Insurance Inc. of ‘BBB-‘ with a stable outlook. “S&P’s […]
Jackson Announces CEO Retirement and Executive Leadership Succession Plan
{July 22nd, 2026} by Jackson Financial Inc.
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc.1 (NYSE: JXN) (Jackson®) today announced Laura Prieskorn, President and Chief Executive Officer, has shared her plans to retire at the end of 2026. Don Cummings, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will succeed Prieskorn as President and CEO and as a member of the JFI Board of Directors, effective October […]
Fortitude Re’s A (Excellent) Rating Affirmed by AM Best; Outlook Revised to Stable
{July 22nd, 2026} by Fortitude Re
HAMILTON, Bermuda–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Fortitude Re announced today that AM Best has revised its outlook to stable from negative and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of “a” (Excellent) of Fortitude Reinsurance Company Ltd., Fortitude Life Insurance & Annuity Company and Fortitude International Reinsurance Ltd, insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries […]
Venerable and Guardian Reach Agreement to Transition Assets to Venerable’s Investment Advisory Platform
{July 22nd, 2026} by Venerable Holdings
WEST CHESTER, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Venerable Holdings, Inc. (“Venerable”), today announced that it has reached an agreement with The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (“Guardian”) to transition approximately $4.5bn in separate account assets currently held in Guardian’s variable products trust into mutual funds advised by SunAmerica Asset Management, LLC (“SAAMCo”), a Venerable subsidiary. Under the proposed […]
Lincoln in Talks With Talcott for Multibillion-Dollar Risk Deal
{July 22nd, 2026} by Alexandre Rajbhandari
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Remember the Guaranteed Universal Life (GUL) arms race that occurred just after the turn of the century? Turns out, not many want that business on their books anymore. -sjm ………………………………. Lincoln National Corp. is in advanced talks with Talcott Financial Group for a reinsurance deal that would shift billions of […]
Allianz Life Study Finds Americans Struggle to Shift From Retirement Saving to Spending
{July 22nd, 2026} by Allianz
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–After decades of saving, many Americans struggle with the idea of actually spending their retirement savings, according to the 2026 Annual Retirement Study* from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, part of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). Seven in 10 (71%) working Americans say they anticipate being reluctant […]
AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of Sagicor Financial Company Ltd. and Most of Its Subsidiaries
{July 22nd, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) to A (Excellent) from A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICRs) to “a” (Excellent) from “a-” (Excellent) of most of the subsidiaries of Sagicor Financial Company Ltd. (Bermuda). These subsidiaries — Sagicor Life Inc. and Sagicor General Insurance Inc. (both domiciled in St. Michael, […]
How the New Retirement Fear Index Could Help You Serve Clients
{July 22nd, 2026} by Roger Wohlner
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Taking bets on how long it will be before someone uses this index on an indexed annuity. -sjm ………………………… Advisors who follow financial news are deluged with findings on Americans’ readiness for retirement. Sometimes those findings are alarming. But what are advisors and clients supposed to do with all that data? […]
New MassMutual Research Reveals Most Americans Want Financial Guidance but Aren’t Getting It
{July 22nd, 2026} by MasMutual
2026 MassMutual Financial Habits Report finds that conflicting online information, myths about advisor minimums, and financial anxiety are leaving Americans underserved SPRINGFIELD, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MassMutual released its 2026 Financial Habits Report today. Nearly two-thirds of Americans avoid important financial decisions due to anxiety or overwhelm. Yet 8 in 10 agree that working with a financial advisor would help. The […]
BD to Pay $1.1M Over Variable Annuity Exchanges
{July 22nd, 2026} by Melanie Waddell
Wink’s Moore on the Market: I try to give people the benefit of the doubt when I read about cases like this. Isn’t it possible that the new products offered a benefit/value, which was not provided through the existing variable annuities (VAs)? Hard to argue that this was in clients’ best interests, though, given the […]
Regulators: ‘No firm conclusions’ from first offshore reinsurance filings
{July 22nd, 2026} by John Hilton
State insurance regulators have begun reviewing the first round of reserve adequacy reports required under a new actuarial guideline designed to increase oversight of offshore and captive reinsurance transactions. It is too early to conclude whether reserves remain sufficient to protect policyholders, said Fred Andersen of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Read at INN
US Department of Labor files amicus brief clarifying use of pension risk transfers to annuity providers
{July 22nd, 2026} by DOL
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, clarifying the business requirements for offloading defined benefit plan liabilities through pension risk transfers. In the brief, filed in Doherty v. Bristol-Myers Squibb, No. 26-1021, the department reiterates the appropriate standards for pension risk transfers, also […]
WTW launches significant upgrade to market-leading modeling platform with new deferred pension capabilities
{July 22nd, 2026} by WTW
NEW YORK, July 21, 2026 — WTW (NASDAQ: WTW) today announced the release of the newest version of RiskAgility Financial Modeler (FM) U.S. Library, its market-leading modeling platform for life insurers. RiskAgility FM U.S. Library 7.4 introduces a new Deferred Pension Annuity (DPA) application, developed primarily for Pension Risk Transfer (PRT) transactions and valuations of existing […]
Ethos and North American Expand Their Indexed Universal Life Product Offering to include Children
{July 22nd, 2026} by Ethos
AUSTIN, Texas and DES MOINES, Iowa, July 21, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ethos, a leading life insurance technology company on a mission to democratize access to life insurance, today announced the expansion of its Accumulation Indexed Universal Life (IUL) product, issued by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, to include juvenile coverage. Parents […]
Equity Indexed Life Insurance Market Research Explores Growth Within A $8.35 Billion Opportunity
{July 22nd, 2026} by The Business Research Company
The equity indexed life insurance sector is gearing up for significant growth as it adapts to evolving consumer needs and technological advancements. With increasing digital integration and personalized financial solutions, this market is set to expand rapidly in the coming years. Here’s a detailed overview of the market’s size, key players, trends, and segments shaping […]
How to Help Gen X Turn Retirement Anxiety Into Action
{July 22nd, 2026} by Ron Barrett
Generation X is feeling it: College tuition. Aging parents. A market that seems to lurch sideways every other week. And in the background, a nagging question: Will any of this actually be enough? Read at Think Advisor
The next growth phase in life/annuities depends on modernization
{July 22nd, 2026} by Loren Brockhouse
As the life and annuity market continues to grow, the next phase of that growth will depend on how well the industry modernizes the sales, service and back-office workflows that turn consumer interest into completed protection. Demand for retirement income and financial protection is strong. Read at INN
Are You Making These Compliance-Related Annuity Mistakes?
{July 22nd, 2026} by Allison Bell
While one of the biggest annuity mistakes that advisors can make is treating these products “as either inherently good or inherently bad,” according to Melissa Caro, founder of My Retirement Network, compliance-related mistakes can also crop up when recommending annuities to clients. Read at Think Advisor
CA judge certifies class action in teachers’ lawsuit over in-plan annuity fees
{July 22nd, 2026} by John Hilton
A federal judge certified a class of California public-school employees in their lawsuit over in-plan annuity fees. Plaintiff Danielle Krimbow claims that the Life Insurance Company of the Southwest improperly charged certain annuity rider fees that were not disclosed on the state’s required retirement investment website. Read at INN
Best’s Special Report: Bond Shifts Highlight Evolving Investment Strategies Among US Life/Annuity Insurers
{July 22nd, 2026} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC) new principles-based bond definition has shone a brighter spotlight on shifting U.S. life/annuity insurer investment strategies amid increased private placements and allocations to asset-backed securities, according to a new AM Best report. The NAIC’s revision of its definition of a bond to focus more on the substance of […]
The Insurance Barometer Study: What Consumers Want and Need from Life Insurance
{July 22nd, 2026} by NAIFA
Understanding what consumers expect from life insurance can help financial professionals create more meaningful conversations and better connect clients with solutions that meet their needs. The latest Insurance Barometer Study offers valuable insights into consumer attitudes toward life insurance, including the growing demand for education, customization and professional guidance. Read at Advisor Today
Improving guaranteed income with living benefits
{July 22nd, 2026} by Wade D. Pfau, Ph. D., CFA, RICP
More Americans are interested in generating guaranteed income in retirement. In fact, LIMRA research shows there has been an increase in workers’ willingness to convert assets into lifetime-guaranteed income, which has increased 14 percentage points from 38% in 2017 to 52% in 2023.1 Variable annuities, when annuitized, are one solution available to generate guaranteed income. Variable […]
ALIRT Insurance Research: Recent Trends Involving Privately-Owned Insurers in the U.S. Life Insurance Industry
{July 22nd, 2026} by ALIRT Insurance Research
Earlier this month ALIRT Insurance Research published an in-depth study examining the impact of privately-owned insurers on the U.S. life insurance industry over the past almost two decades. This report highlights these organizations’ growing share of industry assets as well as emerging business strategies, especially around business mix, investment appetite, and the expanded use of […]
Let’s make sure we are seeing the forest through the trees.
{July 22nd, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Agents, be advised… If your client is paying 1.00% a year for a premium bonus, rate buy-up, rider fee, etc., you need to analyze the product. *****At the end of year 10, those charges have accrued to exceed 10%.***** Is the net premium bonus considerably higher than 10%? Did the client earn an additional 10% […]
FMO Q&A
{July 22nd, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
I was recently working with someone who didn’t realize that I have experience working with Field Marketing Organization (FMO) distribution. In fact, I crafted an article for those interested in the FMO channel, seven years ago. Read FMO Q & A via LinkedIn A couple of updates need to be noted: 1. As of 2025, […]
Ironic.
{July 22nd, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Oh, Terry Savage, I couldn’t help but SMH at this one. Read Ending an annuity via TerrySavage.com You suggest to your reader, “Whoa! There’s an awful lot you don’t know — not only about annuities, but…” Ironic. I feel compelled to comment, that if you are going to opine on annuities in a public domain, […]
Moore on the Market 7/15/2026
{July 15th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Good morning! Here’s the latest life/annuity product news, delivered FREE to your inbox… ANNUITY 07/15/26: AuguStar launches their Observatory indexed annuity series. What’s interesting about the products? Annuitants can choose from asset allocation models or individual indexing options. Most of the rates on these annuities are guaranteed for the contract term. Look […]
Jackson to Report Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results on August 4
{July 15th, 2026} by Jackson Financial Inc.
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc.1 (NYSE: JXN) (Jackson®) today announced that it will release second quarter 2026 financial results after market close on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Jackson’s press release and supplemental financial materials will be available at investors.jackson.com. Jackson will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the results at 10 a.m. ET on Wednesday, […]
Canvas Annuity Launches 10-Year MYGA at 6.3%, Introduced by New Mascot Steady Edward
{July 15th, 2026} by Canvas Annuity
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., July 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Canvas Annuity, an innovator in direct-to-consumer annuities, announced it will launch a 10-year Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA), beginning today. The new 10-year term will debut with a market-leading initial interest rate of 6.3%, which is guaranteed for the entire term. To champion this milestone, the company has also unveiled its new […]
Partial annuitization: How advisors can help clients balance income, growth
{July 15th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
In recent years, we’ve seen greater market volatility, higher inflation, uncertainty about the future of Social Security, and longer life expectancies. These concerns are changing the conversation many people are having about how to allocate their nest egg. “More retirees are warming up to the idea of partial annuitization to assure a guaranteed lifetime income […]
Swiss Re Sees U.S. Life Insurers Facing More Market Stress
{July 15th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Analysts at a company that helps keep the U.S. life insurance and annuity party going are wondering if U.S. issuers are dancing a little too hard on the tables. The Swiss Re Institute has published a quietly nervous forecast in its new annual review of the world’s insurance markets. Read at Think Advisor
FIDx Preparing for ‘Insurance Overlay’ Boom
{July 15th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Fiduciary Exchange is preparing for what it’s hoping will be a contingent deferred annuity boom. The annuity and insurance technology firm is launching major sales efforts for “insurance overlay” products in the next few months, and it’s talking to big distributors about more efforts to expand the program within about 18 months. Read at Think […]
Excess Return Indexes Are Everywhere in Fixed Indexed Annuities
{July 15th, 2026} by Branislav Nikolić
The debate around fixed indexed annuity illustrations has been going on for years now, and it has picked up lately, especially around custom indexes labeled “excess return.” Experts have argued, often fairly, that some historical FIA illustrations create expectations and that the actual mechanics of the product may struggle to deliver on those expectations over time. Read […]
AI’s dual reality: Efficiency for insurers, disruption for agents
{July 15th, 2026} by Paige Waters and Stephanie Macro
Artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword reserved for technology conferences and corporate strategy decks. It is actively reshaping how life and health insurance is sold, underwritten, serviced and regulated. Those who understand the technology and how to implement it wisely will be better positioned for the future of insurance distribution. Read at INN
Regulators clear way to rewrite annuity illustration rules
{July 15th, 2026} by John Hilton
A National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ committee voted Monday to reopen the annuity disclosure model to give regulators a chance to tamp down illustrations. Regulators with the Life Insurance and Annuities Illustrations Working Group say that some sales illustrations project unrealistically high returns, which could leave consumers with inflated expectations about product performance. Read at […]
Guide women along the walk through widowhood
{July 15th, 2026} by Susan Rupe
Although more than $54 trillion in wealth is expected to transfer to widows by 2048, many women still face financial insecurity after their spouse dies. A LIMRA report, “A Widow’s Walk to Financial Confidence“, found older widowed women have a higher-than-average poverty rate, while widows overall report low financial preparedness. Read at INN
Guardian report finds small business owners’ confidence may be masking financial vulnerabilities
{July 15th, 2026} by Guardian
NEW YORK, July 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Small business owners are setting ambitious goals and looking to the future with confidence, but a new report from The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) suggests many may be pursuing those ambitions without necessary financial safeguards. Read the full ‘Big Goals, Fragile Foundations’ report here. Confidence outpaces preparedness According to […]
Proof that we’re not just data aggregators?
{July 15th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Wink, Inc. has got the intel you need! 😉 Proof that we’re not just data aggregators? *****Data Nerds***** Our team has nearly two centuries of combined experience in the annuity and life insurance markets. We’re product experts who understand the nuances and complexities of the products we track. *****Insurer Besties***** We maintain relationships with the […]
PHL Variable liquidation pushed out to 2027, Connecticut regulators say
{July 14th, 2026} by Jul 1, 2026
The liquidation of PHL Variable Insurance Co. will not happen until next year at the earliest, Connecticut Insurance Commissioner Josh Hershman said in a status update filed Tuesday. State insurance guaranty associations are preparing to seek bids from insurers willing to assume portions of the troubled company’s business, Hershman explained, a process that will take […]
Annuities Reduce Retirees’ Financial Stress, Academic Paper Finds
{July 14th, 2026} by Edward Rueda
Annuities provide guaranteed payments that could, in turn, reduce retirees’ financial stress and potentially lengthen life spans, according to a recent study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research. Looking at administrative payout data from approximately 600,000 Chilean retirees from 2004 through 2022, the study found that surveyed retirees with annuities had a 2.55% reduction […]
Brett Blake of Annuity.com Discusses the Future of Retirement on “Moving America Forward” with Tom Hegna
{July 14th, 2026} by PRLog
Retirement planning is entering a new era, and Brett Blake, CEO of Annuity.com, believes technology and guaranteed income solutions will play a major role in helping Americans retire with greater confidence and security. Blake recently joined nationally recognized retirement expert Tom Hegna on the television program Moving America Forward for a conversation exploring the future of retirement […]
IRS Issues Final Regulations on Life Insurance Contract Transfers
{July 14th, 2026} by Bloomberg Tax Automation
The IRS issued final regulations providing guidance on the application of the transfer-for-value rules and information reporting requirements for reportable policy sales involving life insurance contracts in I.R.C. §1035 exchanges and certain corporate reorganizations. Read at Bloomberg Tax
Mariner adds caregiving support as advisors flag rising client need
{July 14th, 2026} by Leo Almazora
Mariner, the Overland Park, Kansas-based national wealth management firm, said Monday it has partnered with Cariloop to give its advisors and clients direct access to professional care coaches who help families manage the logistics of caring for aging parents, spouses or other relatives with complex health needs. Read at InvestmentNews
Insurance industry employment shows disturbing declines
{July 14th, 2026} by John Hilton
While overall U.S. employment remains resilient, insurance industry hiring is moving in the opposite direction. It is a trend that is raising concerns in an industry anxious over both the growing use of artificial intelligence, and its own aging agent force. Read at INN
Change the lens you use to evaluate premium-financed IUL
{July 14th, 2026} by Michael Rothman and Kristin Williams
There is a way of looking at premium-financed indexed universal life that makes it look like a bad deal. And there is a way of looking at it that makes its value almost impossible to ignore. The difference between those two views is not just the data. It is the lens. Read at INN
Globe Life Inc. (NYSE: GL) Highlighted for Surprising Price Action
{July 14th, 2026} by NetworkNewsWire
Globe Life Inc. (NYSE: GL) has caught the attention of the investment community today with its bullish price action. The company’s shares have moved 1.24% on the day to $179.27. Globe Life Inc. delivers diverse life insurance and supplementary health coverage, alongside annuity products, targeting households in the lower-middle to middle-income brackets throughout the United States. The company’s operations are […]
Pacific Life Launches as Presenting Partner of the US Sailing Team
{July 14th, 2026} by Pacific Life
BRISTOL, R.I.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Today, Pacific Life and US Sailing announced a landmark partnership with Pacific Life being named the Presenting Partner of the US Sailing Team through 2028. The partnership marks one of the most significant sponsorship positions in the future of American sailing and will provide vital support for US Sailing Team athletes as they […]
DOL Rule List Focuses on Alts, End of ESG
{July 13th, 2026} by James Van Bramer
The Department of Labor will focus heavily on fiduciary rules and SECURE 2.0 guidance, according to the newly published 2026 Unified Agenda. The rule lists, posted by the DOL and the Department of the Treasury, revealed that the Employee Benefits Security Administration is again reworking “Prudence and Loyalty in Selecting Plan Investments,” often called the ESG rule, and […]
It could be a game-changer.
{July 10th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Most of you know that I lost my oldest child, and (then) only son, to suicide nearly 13 years ago. Last week, I revealed that about a month or so ago, my home was transformed to accommodate my dying mother-in-law’s needs, while she was in hospice; sadly, she passed away on July 9th. It is […]
Moore on the Market 7/8/2026
{July 8th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Good morning! Here’s the latest annuity/life product news, delivered FREE to your inbox… Please excuse a lighter edition this week. I am periodically away from the office this week while caring for a loved one in hospice. -sjm ANNUITY 07/07/26: Ceres Life reduced GLWB payouts on their Graybar IncomePlus fixed indexed annuity. LIFE 06/29/26 […]
Malibu Life Holdings Completes Acquisition of TruSpire, Establishing Malibu USA and Accelerating Entry into the U.S. Retail Annuity Market
{July 8th, 2026} by Malibu Life Holdings Limited
Thu, Jul 02, 2026 08:00 CET Transaction creates Malibu Life’s direct U.S. annuity origination platform, with inaugural product launch targeted for early-to-mid September. George Town, Cayman Islands – July 2, 2026 – Malibu Life Holdings Limited (“Malibu Life” or the “Company”), a London Stock Exchange-listed insurance holding company focused on the U.S. retirement and annuity […]
Ibexis Announces Expanded Bank Relationships and New Index Options for FIA Plus® and WealthDefender® Series
{July 8th, 2026} by Ibexis
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Ibexis Life & Annuity Insurance Company® is pleased to announce expanded bank relationships and the addition of two innovative index options to its FIA Plus® and WealthDefender® product series, further enhancing the growth opportunities and diversification available to financial professionals and their clients through fixed indexed annuities. The new index options […]
MassMutual Ranks No. 100 on the 2026 Fortune 500® List
{July 8th, 2026} by MassMutual
SPRINGFIELD, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MassMutual today announced that it rose to No. 100 on the 2026 Fortune 500®1 list, placing the company among the top 100 largest U.S. companies by revenue, continuing its streak of more than 30 consecutive years on the list, and reflecting its strong 2025 performance as the company marks its 175th year in business. MassMutual achieved excellent […]
An aging population needs advisors to cut through the confusion
{July 8th, 2026} by Susan Rupe
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – Three and a half years remain until 2030, a year in which a significant demographic shift is expected to rock the U.S. By 2030, the last baby boomer will turn 65, ending the timespan in which 10,000 boomers a day reached age 65. But as the last of the boomers hit […]
Built-in guaranteed annuities: What advisors should know
{July 7th, 2026} by Anna Baluch
Fidelity Investments recently announced its plans to launch Fidelity Freedom Lifetime, in partnership with top insurance companies like New York Life and Nationwide. Fidelity Freedom Lifetime, a suite of target date collective investment trusts (CITs) with a built-in guaranteed income option, will be available to employer plan sponsors through Fidelity’s platform in early 2027. Read […]
Aquarian Seeks More Backers for $4.1 Billion Brighthouse Deal
{July 7th, 2026} by Alexandre Rajbhandari, Alison McNeely, Dinesh Nair
Aquarian Holdings has approached prospective investors to take a piece of the roughly $3 billion committed by Mubadala Capital to support its acquisition of insurer Brighthouse Financial Inc. Read at Bloomberg Law
Insurer AI Exclusions Spark Policyholder Alarm on Coverage Gaps
{July 7th, 2026} by Randi Love
Companies that develop or use AI-generated content will likely either find themselves on the hook for any related litigation or regulatory probes or paying through the nose for insurance coverage as carriers race to limit their own liability. Read at Bloomberg Law
Apollo ‘Death Bets’ Case Advances After Initial Court Ruling
{July 7th, 2026} by Mike Leonard
Civil litigation moved forward against Apollo Global Management Inc. on Monday over its alleged scheme to bet on the longevity of senior citizens by acquiring their life insurance policies and funneling the payouts through shell entities. Read at Bloomberg Law
7 Consumer Fears About Annuities
{July 7th, 2026} by Allison Bell
Wink’s Moore on the Market: I don’t know about the statistics in this study. Annuities in the United Kingdom have to be different from annuities in the USA? I didn’t even know if annuities were tax deferred in the UK until I asked AI. I just feel like the stats are way off. Only 12% […]
How do you show your support for a spouse that is losing a parent?
{July 7th, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
How do you show your support for a spouse that is losing a parent? You may have wondered what’s been up with my infrequent posts. I have news piled-up for days…well- For the past 28 days, my mother-in-law (MIL) has been in a fight for her life. She started at the hospital. Was discharged. Returned […]
Zinnia and Carriers Partner to Drive Annuity Innovation as Annuity Market Hits New Highs
{July 7th, 2026} by Zinnia
GREENWICH, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Zinnia, a leading life and annuity technology company, is helping carriers capitalize on growing annuity demand by launching the next generation of annuity products faster, building innovative digital capabilities. The partnership with carriers reflects Zinnia’s focus on powering product innovation, smarter automation, and modern infrastructure as carriers look to compete in a rapidly […]
Ty J. Young Wealth Management Launches WeBuyAnnuityBooks.com to Help Advisors Successfully Exit Their Business
{July 7th, 2026} by Ty J. Young Wealth Management
ATLANTA, July 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ty J. Young Wealth Management has launched WeBuyAnnuityBooks.com, a new educational platform dedicated to helping independent fixed indexed annuity (FIA) professionals navigate one of the industry’s most overlooked challenges: succession planning. Designed specifically for retirement-income advisors, insurance agents, marketers, and IMOs, the new website provides educational resources for advisors exploring succession for retirement-income and […]
Annuity issuers borrowed $153B from FHLBs in 2025: AM Best
{July 7th, 2026} by Editorial Staff
Sixteen large life/annuity companies, led by Athene Annuity and Life’s $23B, received advances totaling almost $90 billion from the Federal Home Loan Bank in 2025 (see chart at right). In other news, Cayman regulator aims for ‘jurisdictional maturation’; Apollo caps withdrawals from private credit fund; AM Best discusses reinsurance ‘sidecars’; Sixth Street invests in Monument […]
Annuities in 401(k) plans: A mixed bag for retirees, experts say
{July 7th, 2026} by Lucy Peterson
While annuities can provide retirees with guaranteed lifetime income, a recent article from the Center for Retirement Research, argues that the recent push from the Trump Administration to add more annuities to 401(k) plans has both advantages and disadvantages. Read at Benefits Pro
New Bill Creates Accredited Investor Category For Advisor Clients
{July 7th, 2026} by Tracey Longo
New legislation proposed by a Republican lawmaker in Congress could offer a gateway for Main Street investors seeking to invest in private markets—by creating a new accredited investor status category for them when they use a registered investment advisor. The legislation could put advisors in a powerful gateway role. Read at FA
Before you debate premium financing, understand the bigger picture
{July 7th, 2026} by Michael J. Rothman
Advisors with good intentions often make this mistake when discussing premium-financed indexed universal life, similar to the mistake critics make when they oppose it. They both start in the middle of the story. Read at INN
Empathy Brings Family Support Services to New Transamerica Policies
{July 7th, 2026} by Empathy
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Empathy, the technology leader transforming how the world plans for and deals with life’s hardest moments, announced that its collaboration with Transamerica is officially underway. Starting today, Empathy Loss Support™, a comprehensive post-loss care platform, and Empathy LifeVault™, a digital legacy planning and organization tool, are now live and available to new policyholders […]
Limra Changes How It Calculates Annuity Sales for Carrier Rankings
{July 6th, 2026} by Cyril Tuohy
Wink’s Moore on the Market: I read that LIMRA is going to start counting internal exchanges in their data set. I also heard that Wink, Inc. has reported sales in this manner since 1997. *wink, wink* Welcome to my house, LIMRA. Well played…very well played. -sjm …………………………………………… ….Nationwide sold nearly $2 billion in fixed-rate […]
Are knowledge gaps limiting annuity recommendations?
{July 6th, 2026} by Kush Kotecha
The annuity industry is in the midst of a historic run. According to LIMRA, U.S. retail annuity sales surpassed $460 billion in 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking growth. One reason for this momentum is that we are moving through the heart of the “Peak 65” wave, the largest surge of Americans turning […]
Moore on the Market 7/1/2026
{July 1st, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Good morning! Here’s the latest life/annuity product news, delivered FREE to your inbox… ANNUITY 06/22/26: American General Life increases the attractiveness of their Lifetime Income Plus Flex Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB), their Lifetime Income Plus Multiplier Flex GLWB, and their Lifetime Income Choice GLWB available on the select indexed annuities. 06/29/26: […]
Security Benefit Introduces Blueprint Annuity with 3- and 5-year Horizons Providing Broad Planning Flexibility
{July 1st, 2026} by Security Benefit
TOPEKA, Kan.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Security Benefit today introduced its Blueprint Fixed Index Annuity (FIA) designed as a flexible solution to address retiree uncertainty related to market volatility, interest rates, and more. Blueprint offers advisors and their clients a dependable way to protect assets while still pursuing growth potential. With 3-year and 5-year surrender charge period options, multiple […]
Corebridge Financial Brings New Index Strategies and Enhanced Growth Potential to Max Accumulator+ III
{July 1st, 2026} by Corebridge
June 29th, 2026, HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial today announced enhancements to its Max Accumulator+ III index universal life insurance product, including new index strategies, as well as changes designed to improve cash value outcomes. These updates are intended to give customers more diversification in how they allocate and build policy value over time and strengthen long-term […]
Wink, Inc. literally reports on over a million data points today!!
{July 1st, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
I am inspired by a competitors’ recent press release “…the industry’s LEADING SOURCE of annuity rate and product data?” ************************Wink, Inc.‘s AnnuitySpecs tool************************ __________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ “…over 250,000 advisors use [competitor’s] annuity data to research and compare annuity products today…” Wink, Inc. serves over 600,000 insurance companies, field marketing organizations, brokerage general agencies, national B/Ds, independent […]
Jackson Named InvestmentNews 2026 Annuities Provider of the Year
{July 1st, 2026} 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), has been named the 2026 Annuities Provider of the Year by InvestmentNews. The award recognizes the annuity provider or insurance carrier that has displayed leadership in delivering value to financial professionals and their clients in product innovation, education, service excellence […]
What’s fueling record annuity growth?
{July 1st, 2026} by Ayo Mseka
According to a recent Nationwide survey, financial professionals who sell annuities are already using a variety of software and financial technology platforms in their practices, including financial planning software, customer relationship management platforms and performance reporting software. “As the industry moves toward faster, more standardized processes, advisors who embrace these tools will strengthen client engagement and […]
There are so many unknowns at this point.
{July 1st, 2026} by Sheryl J. Moore
Heads up! Monumental news ahead- The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is exploring whether field marketing organizations (FMOs) and brokerage general agencies (BGAs) should have to disclose their compensation. See here: https://content.naic.org/committees/a/life-insurance-annuities-cmte Does that mean merely overrides? How about hurdles/incentive compensation? And index fees- will they be spared? How about national overrides- will they […]
Lincoln Financial to Report 2026 Second Quarter Results on July 30
{July 1st, 2026} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE:LNC) announced today that it will report its results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, at 6:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, July 30, 2026. A conference call is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day. Earnings materials, including the 2026 second quarter Earnings Release, Earnings […]
