How an IMO Collapsed, Stung by Premium Financing Gone Wrong
{October 19th, 2021} by Cyril Tuohy
New court documents shed light on what happened to Shurwest, a company that found an engine of growth in sales of indexed universal life insurance. U.S. sales of the products in the second quarter jumped 23% to $628 million from a year earlier, Wink’s Sales & Market Report said earlier this month. Click HERE to read the […]
14 Annuity Tax Facts to Know
{October 19th, 2021} by Emily Holbrook
Annuities have long been a tool in the arsenal of retirement planners. They may be a great fit for some clients, especially those who continually max out their annual 401(k) contributions or for those approaching retirement and seeking another source of steady, guaranteed income. However, the many types of annuities, the benefits they provide your […]
The Baby Boomer Dilemma – Official Trailer
{October 19th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
We did this thing, along with my friends Tom Hegna and Moshe Arye Milevsky. It is a documentary about retirement and annuities. The Baby Boomer Dilemma – Official Trailer from Doug Orchard on Vimeo.
Ex-Employees: Shurwest Execs Knew About Dubious IUL Sales
{October 19th, 2021} by John Hilton
An Arizona independent marketing organization faces additional scrutiny over how much it knew about a fraudulent scheme to pump up indexed universal life sales. Shurwest filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Aug. 31 in a bid to settle scores of lawsuits, all while steadfastly maintaining that company executives knew nothing about a pension fraud scheme adapted […]
Surviving COVID-19 Could Make Obtaining Life Insurance Complicated
{October 19th, 2021} by Hayley Crandall
With the number of COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. passing 700,000 and continuing to rise, many Americans are thinking about life insurance. In the first half of this year, the total number of life insurance policies sold increased by 8%, compared with the first half of 2020. This is the highest policy sales growth recorded […]
Allianz Life Offers Fee-Based Version Of VA
{October 19th, 2021} by Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Oct. 18, 2021 – To help registered investment advisers (RIAs) manage transition and longevity risks in client portfolios, Allianz Life announced today it has launched an advisory version of its Allianz Index Advantage Income® Variable Annuity. The Allianz Index Advantage Income ADVSM Variable Annuity offers an advisor-centric product design with seamless integration, low fees1, greater control and enhanced fee billing. […]
The Troubling Trend Of “Gray Sheeting” Life Insurance Policies
{October 19th, 2021} by Wm. Scott Page
Agents and advisors are unwittingly handing over life insurance policies for sale in a marketplace that chronically undervalues them. “Gray sheeting” is a troubling trend in the world of life insurance settlements. When the time comes for most people to sell a major asset, they usually begin the process by gaining an understanding of what […]
Data, Data, Data Driving Life Underwriting
{October 19th, 2021} by Ken Leibow
Digital point of sales solutions for life insurance continue to become more innovative. I am trying to keep up. The auto-fulfillment process for applying for life insurance is all about data and getting an instant underwriting decision. While we all want instant underwriting decisions, the impaired risk business is not going away. There are new […]
Broker Words—October 2021
{October 19th, 2021} by Stephen Howard
Damn it this one really hurts. Our industry has lost a great innovator, mentor and icon, and I must say goodbye to one of my dearest friends and a man who quite possibly may have saved my life. Bill Zimmerman, LifePro Financial Services, Inc., San Diego, passed away recently from the complications of ALS. Z, […]
Deferred annuity sales up 10% in 2Q2021: WINK
{October 19th, 2021} by Editorial Staff
Jackson National, Equitable, Allianz Life, AIG and New York Life were the market share leaders in major annuity product categories in the second quarter of 2021, according to Sheryl Moore’s Wink, Inc. Total second quarter sales for all deferred annuities were $64.4 billion; an increase of more than 10.0% when compared to the previous quarter […]
Jackson issues its first structured annuity (RILA)
{October 19th, 2021} by Editorial Staff
Jackson National Life Insurance Company has entered the structured variable annuity market with two versions of a new registered index-linked annuity (RILA), one for securities-licensed advisers who earn sales commissions and one for those who charge asset-based fees. The two contracts, Jackson Market Link Pro (JMLP) and Jackson Market Link Pro Advisory (JMLPA), represent Jackson’s first […]
The New Table Stakes: ‘Unified Managed Income’
{October 19th, 2021} by Kerry Pechter
Smart people have been writing retirement income planning software for over a decade, much of it very useful. But most of it falls short of what the market demands today: easy-to-use web-based software that checks all the boxes and makes the complex simple. Click HERE to read the full story via RIJ
Pandemic and Tax Code Change Spur Interest in Life Insurance, J.D. Power Finds
{October 19th, 2021} by JD Power
TROY, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The adage that “life insurance is sold, not bought” may have met its match in the one-two punch of the COVID-19 pandemic and a federal tax code change that makes it possible for policyholders to build more cash value in their plans. According to the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Individual Life Insurance Study,SM […]
Equitable Excellence℠ Scholarship Empowers High School Graduates to be a Force for Good
{October 19th, 2021} by Equitable
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Equitable, a leading financial services organization and principal franchise of Equitable Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EQH), today announced a call for applications for its 2022 Equitable ExcellenceSM Scholarship, designed to inspire and empower graduating high school seniors to be a force for good in their communities while investing in their future. Now in its 19th year, the program […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of New York Life Insurance Company and Certain Subsidiaries; Upgrades Issuer Credit Ratings of Life Insurance Company of North America and New York Life Group Insurance Company of NY
{October 19th, 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 ICRs) of “aaa” (Exceptional) of New York Life Insurance Company and New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation. Additionally, AM Best has upgraded the Long-Term ICRs to “aaa” (Exceptional) from “aa+” (Superior) and affirmed the […]
Protective Life Corporation Launches Collaboration with FLY V, Bringing Local Apparel to Protective Stadium and Supporting Birmingham’s Northside Neighborhoods
{October 19th, 2021} by Protective Life Corporation
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–As part of its commitment to being a good corporate citizen and protecting its communities, Protective Life Corporation (Protective), a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. (TSE:8750), has launched a collaboration with apparel brand, FLY V, a project that brings local apparel to Protective Stadium, supports a Birmingham Northside small business, and will […]
Global Atlantic Retirement Risk Reset Study: Retirement Age Investors Attuned to Low Interest Rates, Inflation
{October 19th, 2021} by Global Atlantic
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–New research from Global Atlantic Financial Group (Global Atlantic) reveals that retirement age investors are attuned to low interest rates and inflation, and open to professional financial help to navigate these economic conditions. The survey of retirement age investors ages 59 to 75 with more than $250,000 in investable assets found more than seven out […]
Pacific Life Introduces New Investment Options—With a Twist
{October 19th, 2021} by Pacific Life
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Recognizing that investors are looking for both growth and protection, Pacific Life recently launched the Invesco® V.I. Defined Outcome Funds, available with certain Pacific Life variable annuities. These innovative new funds are designed to give investors the benefits of a registered index-linked annuity (RILA) but with more flexibility, control, and transparency. The Invesco® V.I. […]
Across Generations, Middle Class U.S. Households Have Few Financial Assets, According to New Analysis from the National Institute on Retirement Security
{October 19th, 2021} by National Institute on Retirement Study
WASHINGTON, Oct. 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — A new analysis finds that across generations, middle class households in the U.S. own few financial assets and the median amounts held fall far short of the assets needed to fund a secure retirement. In 2019, middle class Millennials owned only 14 percent of their generation’s financial assets. The numbers are […]
High-Performing Northwestern Mutual Advisors Recognized Among Industry’s Elite
{October 19th, 2021} by Northwestern Mutual
MILWAUKEE, Oct. 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Northwestern Mutual announced today that several high-performing financial advisors affiliated with the company’s wealth management business have been recognized among the industry’s best in two overviews of the field’s top talent. Forbes along with Working Mother and SHOOK Research featured nearly 10 Northwestern Mutual financial professionals on their 2021 listings, which highlight the nation’s leading […]
Foresters Financial boldly redefines life insurance through innovation, wellness, and purpose
{October 19th, 2021} by Foresters Financial
37% year-over-year growth in U.S. life insurance sales Life insurer focuses on turnkey-decisioned solutions, complimentary member benefits, and technology transformation to drive a better, new normal for everyday American families and independent agents TORONTO, Oct. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – Foresters Financial, the fraternal life insurer recognized by its commitment to enrich family and community well-being, reported 37% year-over-year […]
Simplicity Group Welcomes Independent Planners Group as 30th Acquisition and Mike Kelley and Brian Kelley as Newest Partners
{October 19th, 2021} by Simplicity Group
SUMMIT, N.J., Oct. 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Simplicity Group (“Simplicity”) today announced the acquisition of Independent Planners Group (“IPG”), a Scottsdale, AZ-based independent insurance wholesaler. As part of the transaction, Simplicity welcomes Mike Kelley and Brian Kelley as partners in the organization. IPG, founded in 1991 by Mike Kelley, offers an array of life insurance, annuities, and long-term care solutions including linked […]
Sammons Financial Group Names Jerry Blair to Lead Life Division
{October 19th, 2021} by Sammons Financial Group, Inc.
DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Sammons Financial Group today announced it is naming Jerry Blair as the next president of Sammons Life Insurance Group. Blair will replace Steve Palmitier, current president and chief operating officer of Sammons Financial Group’s life business, who announced his plans to retire last June. Blair will lead the life business lines of member […]
New Transamerica Initiative Supports Small Business Efforts to Recruit and Retain Employees
{October 19th, 2021} by Transamerica
BALTIMORE, Oct. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Transamerica is helping small businesses gain advantages in hiring and retaining employees in today’s demanding job market with a retirement plan program available through year-end. Enhancing employer-sponsored benefits, such as the company’s retirement plan, can help attract and reward both future and current employees. For small businesses that choose Transamerica for their […]
John Hancock Retirement celebrates third-party administrators with National TPA day
{October 19th, 2021} by John Hancock Retirement
TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC SEHK: 945 BOSTON, Oct. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – John Hancock Retirement, a company of Manulife Investment Management, today celebrates the expertise and partnership of third-party administrators (TPAs) who help to make retirement plans work. Every year since 2014, John Hancock has designated the first business day after the October 15 Form 5500 filing deadline as a time to […]
Consumers Keep Life Insurance Underwriters Busy
{October 19th, 2021} by Allison Bell
U.S. consumers submitted 3.7% more individual life insurance applications this past September than they did in September 2020, according to new activity numbers from MIB Group. For life insurance agents and advisors, the new numbers mean that the market is still comfortably warm, in spite of the chill from the delta variant of COVID-19, confusion […]
Part Of Build Back Better Could Be Disaster For Trust Owned Life Insurance
{October 19th, 2021} by Peter J. Reilly
A provision of the Build Back Better Act threatens to louse up a lot of life insurance plans. The problem is in the provision titled “Special Rule for For Grantor Trusts”. In many ways it is a sensible provision doing away with shenanigans that clever planners have concocted over many years largely to benefit the 1%, The rule […]
F&G Acquires Big Stake in Indexed Universal Life Distributor: Deals
{October 19th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Co. has acquired a 30% stake in Freedom Equity Group — an independent marketing organization that focuses on the sale of index universal life (IUL) insurance and index annuities. F&G says it’s acquiring the Arroyo Grande, California-based IMO in an effort to diversify by expanding sales of IUL policies to […]
Meet the Life Insurance Case Manager
{October 19th, 2021} by Tiffany Markarian and Kelly Maheu
When asked about the experience they want to provide their clients, most financial advisors will tell you they want to serve their clients’ needs through comprehensive planning, personal relationships, and honoring their role as a fiduciary. Protecting a client’s lifestyle, assets, and legacy is an important part of that process. In serving the risk management […]
Transamerica to Offer Stand-Alone Stable Value Option: Retirement Moves
{October 19th, 2021} by Allison Bell
What You Need to Know: Employers can bolt the Transamerica Guaranteed Investment Option product onto plans from other providers. MetLife has assumed post-retirement life obligations for about 8,000 retirees. Securian is working with SageView to add personalized managed account programs for workplace retirement plans. Transamerica is helping employers offer stability of returns. The life insurer […]
Life and Health Insurers Might See Inflation: Q3 Earnings Calendar
{October 19th, 2021} by Allison Bell
U.S. prices might, or might not, be at the start of a long climb up, and that could give top executives at life, health and annuity issuers something new to talk about as they hold their new round of earnings calls. If the Federal Reserve Board raises interest rates in an effort to fight inflation, inflation […]
TIAA faces class action over rollovers
{October 19th, 2021} by Emile Hallez
ERISA litigator Schlichter Bogard & Denton is pursing a proposed class-action case against TIAA over that company’s sales tactics for its Portfolio Advisor managed-account service. Click HERE to read the full story via InvestmentNews
This Darkly Humorous Life Insurance Ad Has the Best Legal Disclaimer in Ad History
{October 19th, 2021} by David Griner
Over the decades, legal teams have gotten increasingly insistent about adding warnings to ads. Usually it’s in the vein of “Closed course with professional drivers” or the tried-and-true “Don’t try this at home.” Occasionally it’s downright laughable to imagine someone But Ladder’s new ad for its life insurance not only follows an unexpected storyline for […]
Millennial Women Lead the Way in Non-Retirement Investing
{October 19th, 2021} by Michael Katz
Two-thirds (67%) of women are now investing outside of their defined contribution (DC) retirement accounts, up from 44% in 2018, according to a recent study from Fidelity Investments. Plus, the firm says, women are contributing a record-high average 9.2% to DC plans. The number of women investing non-retirement funds has increased by 50% in just […]
Synthetic Data Can Be Key To Insurers’ Profitability
{October 19th, 2021} by Tobi Hann
Data is the lifeblood of the insurance industry. For decades, teams of actuaries took months to analyze the information at their disposal and to complete the computations required to assess the financial risks associated with people, property and potential events. Later, the availability of computers accelerated the process. Today, advanced data science, machine learning applications […]
Alex Murdaugh Charged With Taking Insurance Money In Maid’s Death
{October 19th, 2021} by CBS - 5 WKRG (Mobile, AL)
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Prominent South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh was arrested Thursday for his connection with missing settlement funds in the wrongful death lawsuit involving his former housekeeper. Agents with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement took Murdaugh into custody on two felony counts of obtaining property […]
Opinion: Life Insurance And Retirement Planning
{October 19th, 2021} by Elliot Raphaelson
There are many reasons why families entering retirement should re-evaluate their life insurance needs. First and foremost, retirees are generally living longer, especially women, so it is important that retirement plans consider the fact that one or both spouses may live into their 90s. Inflation has not been a major retirement-planning factor for some time […]
‘Annuity King’ Alleges IRS Misconduct In New Florida Lawsuit
{October 19th, 2021} by John Hilton
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect comment from the IRS The self-described “Annuity King” escalated his battle with federal authorities with a lawsuit alleging “rogue, out-of-control, above-the-law” conduct by agents who investigated him. Phillip Wasserman, 64, faces up to 20 years in prison on mail fraud, wire fraud and tax evasion charges […]
Wink, Inc. Releases Second Quarter, 2021 Life Sales Results
{October 13th, 2021} by Press Release
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE WHOLE LIFE SALES DOMINATE SECOND QUARTER Wink, Inc. Releases Second Quarter, 2021 Life Sales Results Des Moines, Iowa. October 5, 2021– Wink, Inc. released the second quarter, 2021 life sales results in its 96th edition of Wink’s Sales & Market Report. Wink’s Sales & Market Report is the […]
Jackson Enters the Registered Index-Linked Annuity Market
{October 13th, 2021} by Jackson National Life Insurance Company
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®), the main operating subsidiary of Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN), today announced the launch of Jackson Market Link ProSM (JMLP) and Jackson Market Link Pro AdvisorySM (JMLPA), two new registered index-linked annuities (RILAs). JMLP (commission-based) and JMLPA (fee-based) offer consumers the opportunity to grow assets before and during retirement while offering […]
Life Insurance Sales Strong Across Product Lines In 2Q, Wink Reports
{October 13th, 2021} by Staff Reports
Non-variable universal life sales for the second quarter were $779.2 million, up 19.9% when compared to the previous quarter and up 18.1% as compared to the same period last year, according to Wink’s Sales & Market Report. Non-variable universal life sales include both indexed UL and fixed UL product sales. Noteworthy highlights for total non-variable […]
F&G Purchases 30% Ownership Stake in Freedom Equity Group
{October 13th, 2021} by Fidelity & Guaranty Life; Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — F&G, part of the FNF family of companies and a leading provider of annuities and life insurance, announced a 30% ownership stake in Freedom Equity Group (FEG), a top Life IMO and longtime F&G partner. The opportunity brings new distribution capacity for F&G to fuel growth in middle market […]
POP QUIZ
{October 13th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Which minimum guaranteed surrender value on an indexed annuity is greater? 87.5% at 1.00% OR 100% at 1.00%, less a 12.50% surrender charge? Join the conversation HERE!
BlackRock Adding Annuities to 401(k) Plans
{October 13th, 2021} by Bernice Napach
BlackRock, the world’s biggest asset manager with more than $9 trillion in assets, is moving into annuities. The firm has a new target date retirement product for 401(k) plans that will provide workers a stream of payments through their lives. Called the LifePath Paycheck solution, it embeds annuity contracts issued by Equitable and Brighthouse Financial, […]
Arizona IMO Seeks Bankruptcy Protection From IUL Fraud Fight
{October 13th, 2021} by John Hilton
A prolific pension fraud scheme that spread to the insurance industry before being shut down by federal investigators continues to produce fresh lawsuits. And it also continues to claim new victims — the latest being Shurwest, a successful Scottsdale, Ariz., independent marketing organization. Shurwest filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Aug. 31 after executives realized “there’s […]
Pandemic Spurred Eight out of 10 People to Reevaluate Life and Finances
{October 13th, 2021} by Lincole Financial Group's 2021 Retirement Power study
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The last 18 months have had a significant impact on businesses, the economy and society — and nearly eight in ten U.S. workers are reevaluating what is important in life, including finances, their career and retirement, according to Lincoln Financial Group’s (NYSE: LNC) 2021 Retirement Power® study. People participating in an employer-sponsored retirement plan are especially […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Jackson National Life Insurance Company and Its Affiliates; Assigns Issuer Credit Rating to Jackson Financial Inc.
{October 13th, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of “a” (Excellent) of Jackson National Life Insurance Company (JNL), its wholly owned subsidiary, Jackson National Life Insurance Company of New York, and its direct parent, Brook Life Insurance Company. These companies together are referred […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of American International Group, Inc. and Its Subsidiaries
{October 13th, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of “bbb” (Good) of American International Group, Inc. (AIG) (headquartered in New York, NY) [NYSE: AIG]. AM Best also has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICRs of “a” (Excellent) of AIG’s property/casualty (P/C) insurance subsidiaries (collectively […]
American Equity Executes Industry Re-defining Reinsurance Partnership with Brookfield Reinsurance
{October 13th, 2021} by American Equity Investment Life Holding Company
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American Equity Investment Life Holding Company (“American Equity”) (NYSE: AEL), announced today that it has closed its previously announced reinsurance transaction with North End Re (Cayman) SPC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners Ltd. (“Brookfield Reinsurance”) (NYSE, TSX: BAMR). Under the terms of the agreement, effective July […]
Retirement Parachutes, in Different Colors
{October 13th, 2021} by Kerry Pecther
The 401(k) annuity and the “contingent deferred annuity,” or CDA—two concepts related to the provision of retirement income, but with different audiences in different distribution channels—were in the news this past week. Click HERE to read the full story via RIJ
Jackson Rumbles Onto the Index-Linked Annuity Field
{October 13th, 2021} by Allison Bell
An individual variable annuity giant says it would like a big slice of the registered index-linked annuity (RILA) market pie. Jackson Financial today announced the official launch of its new Jackson Market Link Pro and Jackson Market Link Pro Advisory RILA contracts — and raised the possibility that the $24 billion RILA market rankings could […]
3 Reasons the Annuity Party Could Keep Going
{October 13th, 2021} by Allison Bell
U.S. individual annuity sales looked great in the second quarter, and analysts see reasons why the numbers could continue to look great for at least the next few quarters. The third quarter of 2021 ended Sept. 30, and publicly traded insurers are getting ready to release their earnings, and their annuity sales totals, in the […]
Federal Life Plans to Offer Crypto Contracts: Annuity Moves
{October 13th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Federal Life Insurance Co. wants to help wealthy, sophisticated investors tie variable annuity returns to the performance of cryptocurrencies. The Riverwoods, Illinois-based insurer is preparing to introduce a private placement variable annuity that will let owners link some of the account value to Bitcoin assets, Ether assets and other cryptocurrency assets. Click HERE to read […]
Canadian Firm Closes on $10B American Equity Reinsurance Deal
{October 13th, 2021} by Allison Bell
A subsidiary of Brookfield Reinsurance has closed a deal to reinsure about $10 billion in annuities for American Equity Investment Life Holding Co. The deal means that annuity advisors will continue to be able to do business with an annuity issuer that’s based in the United States — in West Des Moines, Iowa — rather than […]
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF LIFE INSURERS (ACLI) ELECTS NEW CHAIR AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS
{October 13th, 2021} by ACLI
WASHINGTON — The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) today elected its Chair, officers and Board of Directors at the 2021 ACLI Annual Conference. ACLI member companies are leading providers of solutions that help 90 million American families meet their financial protection and retirement security needs. The Chair and Board of Directors lead the industry association. They […]
US Life Insurers Remain On Strong Financial Footing, ACLI Speaker Says
{October 13th, 2021} by Ayo Mseka
A panel of executives from S&P discussed the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and several factors driving the outlook for the industry in this COVID-19 environment during the 2021 American Council of Life Insurers’ (ACLI) virtual Annual Meeting. Kevin Ahern, managing director, North American Insurance Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, moderated the discussion, which featured […]
Trendspotter: Demand for Guaranteed Retirement Income Is Surging
{October 13th, 2021} by Ginger Szala
A recent survey found that 78% of advisors reported that predictable income is more important to clients than asset growth. Although the study is from DPL, an annuity platform, the company isn’t alone in seeing a rise in the pursuit for guaranteed income as bond yields have dropped. As DPL’s CEO, David Lau, told ThinkAdvisor […]
Private equity drives another record quarter for RIA M&A
{October 13th, 2021} by Jeff Benjamin
Wealth management industry consolidation continues to blow past quarterly records and is now on pace for 287 deals this year, according to the latest report from Echelon Partners. Click HERE to read the full story via InvestmentNews
Reg BI to Be Folded Into Regular SEC Exams
{October 13th, 2021} by Melanie Waddell
The Securities and Exchange Commission will be incorporating compliance with Regulation Best Interest into its regular exams, John Polise, associate director of the SEC’s Broker-Dealer and Exchange Oversight, said Tuesday. After completing Phase 1 and 2 of Reg BI exams, the “good news is there’s not going to be a Phase 3,” Polise said during the […]
Allianz Sued for ‘Assessing a Surrender Charge on the Surrender Charge’ in VAs
{October 13th, 2021} by Melanie Waddell
Allianz Life Insurance Co. was hit with a lawsuit Monday for “assessing a surrender charge on the surrender charge” on its variable annuity contracts. The plaintiffs, who are seeking class-action status, assert that Allianz improperly charged all variable annuity contract holders with respect to “surrender charges” in connection with administration of variable annuity contracts issued […]
Get to the Point-to-Point
{October 13th, 2021} by Tim Wood
These days, many retirees are very concerned about market volatility doing severe damage to their retirement nest-egg. There is no level of protection from market risk losses in a traditional account invested in the securities market. So what can we do as financial professionals to help our clients eliminate this risk but still have the […]
Annuity Sales Close Best Sales Quarter Since Early 2020 As Interest Rates Rise
{October 13th, 2021} by INN Insider Pro
Life insurance companies have their attention focused on the Senate, where they will have to vote on the second advance payment of life annuities, which was approved in the Chamber of Deputies and on which the Financial Market Commission has issued harsh warnings due to its impact. Click HERE to read the full story via […]
Simplicity Group Acquires Oxbow Marketing Company and Partners with Robb Daugherty
{October 13th, 2021} by Simplicity Group
SUMMIT, N.J., Oct. 6, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Simplicity Group (“Simplicity”) today announced the acquisition of Ohio-based Oxbow Marketing Company (“Oxbow”). Led by industry vet Robb Daugherty, who becomes a partner in Simplicity Group following this transaction, Oxbow will leverage Simplicity’s resources in the annuity, life space and wealth management, and continue to provide exceptional products and service to Oxbow’s client […]
Shields Brokerage Partners with Integrity to Increase Resources for Enhanced Agent Services
{October 13th, 2021} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, Oct. 12, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity Marketing Group, LLC (“Integrity”), one of the largest independent distributors of life, health and wealth products, today announced it has acquired Shields Brokerage, a distinguished independent marketing organization (“IMO”) based in Exeter, New Hampshire. As part of the acquisition, Chris Shields, President of Shields Brokerage, will become a Managing Partner in Integrity. Financial […]
David O’Malley Set to Become Penn Mutual CEO
{October 13th, 2021} by Allison Bell
The board of The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company has named a longtime company veteran to succeed Eileen McDonnell as the company’s CEO. Chief Operating Officer David O’Malley will succeed McDonnell as CEO Jan. 1, 2022, Penn Mutual says. McDonnnell, who has been the Horsham, Pennsylvania-based company’s chairman as well as its CEO, will continue […]
Jackson to Report 3Q 2021 Financial Results
{October 13th, 2021} by Jackson National Life Insurance Company
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc.1 (NYSE: JXN) will announce financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2021 after market close Tuesday, November 9, 2021. Jackson’s press release and supplemental financial materials will be available at investors.jackson.com. Jackson will host a conference call webcast Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at 10 a.m. ET to review the third […]
Global Atlantic acquires majority stake in eRESI Mortgage
{October 13th, 2021} by Global Atlantic Financial Group LLC
CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–eRESI Mortgage, LLC (“eRESI”), an innovative mortgage funding platform that offers comprehensive private capital solutions to the residential mortgage market, today announced that subsidiaries of The Global Atlantic Financial Group LLC (“Global Atlantic”), a leading life and annuity insurance company, have made a strategic investment and capital commitment to become its majority owner. […]
AIG to Report Third Quarter 2021 Results on November 4, 2021 and Host Conference Call on November 5
{October 12th, 2021} by AIG
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) will report financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2021 after the market closes on Thursday, November 4, 2021. AIG’s press release and financial supplement will be available in the Investors section of AIG’s website at https://www.aig.com. AIG will also host a conference call on Friday, […]
Variable Annuity Sales Continue to Rocket Higher: Wink
{October 11th, 2021} by Allison Bell
Sales of all individual deferred annuities did well in the United States in the second quarter, and sales of variable annuities soared, according to new issuer survey data from Wink Inc. Total U.S. sales of individual deferred products increased 40% between the second quarter of 2020 and the second quarter of 2021, to $64 billion, the […]
To See Frenzied M&A, Just Visit Front Lines of Insurance Sellers
{October 11th, 2021} by Aaron Smith
Also, Sheryl Moore, CEO of Wink and publisher of Wink’s Sales & Market Report, said “none of these distributors have expressed a desire for an IPO as their end game.” She added, “I wouldn’t say that is outside the realm of possibilities, but we just cannot know at this point.” Click HERE to read the full story via LifeAnnuitySpecialst
National Life Grabs Market Share for Indexed Life Sales, Wink Says
{October 11th, 2021} by Aaron Smith
National Life Group gained market share and held its top rank for indexed life insurance sales in the second quarter, according to Wink’s Sales and Market Report. The company’s share of the market segment grew to 16.9% in the second quarter, from 14.4% in the first three months, according to the report published by Wink. Click HERE to […]
Average Returns on Indexed Annuities Fall Below 3.3%, Study Says
{October 11th, 2021} by Cyril Tuohy
Sheryl Moore, founder of Wink, told Pechter that she thought his numbers on returns for indexed annuities seemed too low. But that data is also apparently hard to find. She said that as recently as six months ago, insurers were telling her it didn’t exist. Click HERE to read the full story via LifeAnnuitySpecialist
F&G Snaps Up Stake in Marketing Group to Grow in Indexed Life
{October 11th, 2021} by Cyril Tuohy
Private equity-backed Fidelity & Guaranty Life was the No. 9 seller of indexed universal life in the second quarter, according to Wink’s Sales & Market report. That was its highest rank in the past five years. For the industry as a whole, sales for the three months ending June 30 rose 23% to $627 million over the […]
LIMRA To Produce Educational Videos
{October 10th, 2021} by Karen Demasters
Online educational videos for financial and insurance professionals are being produced by LIMRA and a digital production company, LIMRA announced Tuesday. Hoopis Performance Network will create the short, video-based online courses with experts and advisors in the financial services and insurance industries. The videos are designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills for financial professionals […]
RetireOne and Midland National Launch Constance – a New Portfolio Retirement Income Guarantee
{October 8th, 2021} by RetireOne
SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–RetireOne® and Midland National Life Insurance Company (Midland National) proudly announce the launch of a new, zero-commission contingent deferred annuity (CDA) called Constance. This stand-alone living benefit unbundles the annuity’s insurance component from its underlying investments. In doing so, Constance allows Registered Investment Advisors (RIA) flexibility to wrap client brokerage accounts, Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA), […]
2011-2020 FIA Returns Were Modest, Data Suggests
{October 8th, 2021} by Kerry Pechter
While studying a table of annual fixed indexed annuity (FIA) cash flows, I noticed a row labeled “Investment Returns.” The table came from LIMRA’s Secure Retirement Institute (SRI). Click HERE to read the full story via RIJ Sheryl Moore, founder of Wink, Inc., which collects data from issuers of all types of annuities, said my […]
SECOND QUARTER 2021 LIFE INSURANCE SALES
{October 5th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Non-Variable UL Sales for the second quarter of 2021 were $779 million, compared with sales of $659 million for the second quarter of 2020. Second quarter non-variable life sales were up nearly 20% when compared to the previous quarter and up more than 18% as compared to the same period last year. Total 2Q21 […]
4 in 5 Millennial Workers Expect Major Life Changes in Next Year: MetLife
{October 5th, 2021} by Michael S. Fischer
As the country emerges from the depths of the pandemic, 81% of U.S. millennial employees are expecting to make a major life change in the next 12 months, according to results of a survey on open enrollment released this week by MetLife. Twenty-four percent of millennials plan to buy a new home, 22% to get […]
Coming of Age in the World of Life Insurance
{October 5th, 2021} by Karl Kreunen
Will the millennial generation buy life insurance today? There are many who doubt that they will. After all, they’re young, many don’t own homes, and they say they aren’t getting married and definitely aren’t having kids. I should know, I have a millennial son — he’s 27 and all of the above. Still, I have […]
Another Reason Advisors Are Warming to Annuities
{October 5th, 2021} by Bernice Napach
Beyond the usual reasons given for the growing use of annuities among financial advisors including an aging population, expansion of non-commission products and low bond yields is a little-known development that DPL Financial Partners uncovered in a recent advisor survey: They are making little or no money on fixed income assets. According to the survey, “well […]
Getting to know our Product Specspert, Knower of Important Things
{October 5th, 2021} by Wink's Intel Pros
Talia, is our Product Specspert, Knower of Important Things. Her passion for one-liners is fueled by the likes of “The Big Lebowski,” “Anchorman,” “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” “Labyrinth,” and “The Princess Bride.” This former Arizonian is steadfastly dedicated to volunteering for her children’s school. Already fascinated with this fantastic female? Click HERE to […]
Annuity sales on the rebound, baby!
{October 5th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Deferred annuity sales are bouncing back, as nearly all lines of annuities experienced sales increases over the prior quarter, and the prior year. 2Q2021 ANNUITY SALES Sales / % Chng Last Qtr / % Chng Last Yr -All Deferred Annuities: $64.49 B / 10.60% /40.47% –Non-Variable Deferred Annuities: $31.57 B / 11.12% / 22.04% —Indexed […]
Ethical Dilemma
{October 5th, 2021} by Sheryl Moore
Let’s say your buddy works in the office next to you. And, let’s assume that he told you he was doing business with ABC Insurance Company, and they decided to quit paying his trails on his annuity business that he has placed with them over the past 20 years. Now, ABC Insurance Company wants you […]
Wanted: Better Disclosures For Index-Linked Annuities
{October 5th, 2021} by Tracey Longo
It’s not every day the Consumer Federation of America aligns its lobbying interests with the annuities industry, but the powerful group made an exception when it sent a letter to lawmakers asking them to pass legislation allowing companies to streamline their registration and create more meaningful disclosures for index-linked annuities products. The bipartisan “Registration for […]
Gary Ross McPhail
{October 5th, 2021} by Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens
Obituary Gary Ross McPhail Naples – Gary Ross McPhail, 73, passed away on September 27, 2021 in Naples, FL. Born in Cicero, IL, Gary was the son of the late Philip McPhail and Dolores Theriault. Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanie McPhail, and his children and stepchildren, Phillip Mark MacPhail, Laura Jean McPhail, […]
Wink, Inc. Releases 2nd Quarter, 2021 Deferred Annuity Sales Results
{October 5th, 2021} by Press Release
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE JACKSON NATIONAL CLINCHES TOP ANNUITY SPOT, WHILE ANNUITY SALES TRACK FOR GREATEST SALES YEAR EVER Des Moines, Iowa. September 30, 2021– Wink’s Sales & Market Report is the insurance industry’s #1 resource for annuity sales data since 1997. Sixty-six indexed annuity providers, 46 fixed annuity providers, […]
Second Quarter Deferred Annuity Sales Up 10-40%, Wink Reports
{October 5th, 2021} by Staff Reports
Total second-quarter sales for all deferred annuities were $64.4 billion, an increase of more than 10% when compared to the previous quarter, according to Wink’s Sales & Market Report. Sales represent an increase of 40.4% when compared to the same period last year, Wink reported. Click HERE to read the full story via INN
Best Practices—Leaving A Lasting Legacy
{October 5th, 2021} by Ben Nevejans
Our industry lost a great man last month. To know Bill Zimmerman was to love and respect him. Though it would take him hours to make it through just one aisle of the NAILBA exhibit hall, stopping every couple of yards to engage with an old friend or meet someone new, he could never get […]
Data, Data, Data Driving Life Underwriting
{October 5th, 2021} by Ken Leibow
Digital point of sales solutions for life insurance continue to become more innovative. I am trying to keep up. The auto-fulfillment process for applying for life insurance is all about data and getting an instant underwriting decision. While we all want instant underwriting decisions, the impaired risk business is not going away. There are new […]
Goldman Sachs, Robin Hood Foundation, and Guardian Life Support The Knowledge House
{October 5th, 2021} by The Knowledge House
NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Knowledge House launches its 2021 Fellowship campaign and speaker series with the goal to raise $1.2 million dollars to support 200 up-and-coming technologists. The funds will supply fellows with a year of study and mentoring access to high-level technology professionals. Goldman Sachs, Robin Hood Foundation, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian Life), and other partners have committed […]
The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company Announces Executive Leadership Succession
{October 5th, 2021} by The Penn Mutual LIfe Insurance Company
HORSHAM, Pa., Sept. 28, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company announced today that, effective January 1, 2022, David O’Malley will serve as the company’s president and chief executive officer as part of a planned succession process. Eileen McDonnell, current chairman and chief executive officer, will assume the role of executive chairman of the Penn Mutual board of trustees. […]
Job seekers prefer companies that offer guaranteed lifetime income in retirement
{October 5th, 2021} by TIAA
NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — More than 70% of workers say they would choose to work for or stay with a company that offers access to guaranteed lifetime income in retirement over one that does not, TIAA’s 2021 Lifetime Income Survey reveals. “So many people are considering career changes, and they are telling us that benefits that extend […]
NAIC Report Shows Total Premiums Across All Lines Grew 6% In 2020
{October 5th, 2021} by NAIC
WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) today released the second volume of the 34th edition of the Insurance Department Resources Report (IDRR). The report includes premium volume by type and state and demonstrates a healthy state-based insurance market for 2020. The first volume of the 2020 IDRR was released Sept. 8, 2021. This report includes […]
White Glove Partners with America’s IRA Expert Ed Slott to Provide New Workshop Topic
{October 5th, 2021} by White Glove
BIRMINGHAM, Mich., Sept. 30, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — White Glove, a tech-enabled marketing services company that specializes in turnkey Done-For-You client acquisition and nurturing strategies for financial advisors, today announced a partnership with America’s IRA Expert, Ed Slott, CPA, to provide financial advisors with a new workshop topic based off of his bestselling book, The Retirement Savings Time Bomb (Penguin Random […]
Haven Technologies Launches Advanced Cloud-Native Insurtech Platform for Life, Fixed Annuities and Disability Industries
{October 5th, 2021} by Haven Technologies
NEW YORK, Oct. 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Announced today at Insuretech Connect, Haven Technologies is an advanced insurtech platform for the life, fixed annuities and disability industries. Backed and wholly owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), the newly launched Haven Technologies will leverage a SaaS model to make its solutions available to carriers. The modern, cloud-native […]
After Summer of Optimism, Worries over Future Market Crash Reach Highest Levels in 2021
{October 5th, 2021} by Allianz Life
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–After a summer of relative calm, Americans are increasingly worried about retirement risks related to market volatility, inflation, and COVID-19, according to a new study from Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). The Q3 Quarterly Market Perceptions Study found that people are more worried that a big market crash is in […]
AM Best to Lead Session at American Council of Life Insurers’ Annual Conference
{October 5th, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Members of AM Best’s life/health ratings division will lead an online session as part of the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) Annual Conference, which takes place, Oct. 12-13, 2021. In the session, titled, “Life and Annuity Weathers Pandemic in 2020, Threats and Challenges Still Exist,” Ken Frino, managing director, Mike Porcelli, director, and Edward […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Ohio National Financial Services, Inc. and Its Subsidiaries
{October 5th, 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 Ohio National Life Insurance Company and its wholly owned subsidiary, Ohio National Life Assurance Corporation (together referred to as the Ohio National Life Group). These companies are the principal […]
Best’s Market Segment Report: U.S. Life/Annuity Mutual Insurers Gain M&A Momentum While Pivoting for Pandemic
{October 5th, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Increased merger and acquisition (M&A) activity so far in 2021 in the U.S. life/annuity mutual insurance market is expected to continue as the industry becomes more competitive and scale becomes more important, according to a new AM Best report. The Best’s Market Segment Report, titled, “U.S. Life/Annuity Mutual Insurers Gain M&A Momentum While Pivoting for the […]
Russell Investments’ Q4 2021 Market Outlook: Strategists Expect Pandemic-Recovery Trade to Shake off Growing Pains
{October 5th, 2021} by Russell Investments
SEATTLE–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Russell Investments’ strategists expect the pandemic-recovery trade to resume in Q4 as inflation subsides, COVID-19 infection rates decline, and central bank tapering turns out to not equal tightening. Although the strategists expect the U.S. economy will likely sustain above-trend growth into 2022, they believe the easiest gains are probably in the rear-view mirror as […]
Allstate Completes Sale of Life Insurance Company of New York
{October 5th, 2021} by News Desk
The Allstate Corp. moved closer to its complete exit from the life insurance and annuity business with the closing of the sale of its Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York to Wilton Re for approximately $400 million. The ALNY transaction, along with the previously announced agreement to sell Allstate Life Insurance Co. (ALIC) to Everlake […]
No one goes alone!
{October 5th, 2021} by Wink's Intel Pros
“We have a saying in my family ‘I go-You go-We go. No one goes alone!’ This is so she is not alone!” Rita, one of our fellow Intel Pros courageously shaved her head along with her daughter, who had to out of necessity, so she wouldn’t be alone. They both sure do rock this hairdo!
Ladder Partners with Redtail Technology to Make Life Insurance Easy for Advisors
{October 5th, 2021} by Ladder
PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Ladder, the company offering flexible life insurance in minutes, today announced an integration with Redtail Technology, the leading provider of client relationship management (CRM) solutions for financial services firms. The news was shared from Riskalyze’s annual Fearless Investing Summit in Palm Springs, CA. The new integration will bring a suite of proprietary Ladder technology […]
Announcing the Financial Advisor IQ Service Awards
{October 5th, 2021} by Loren Fox
We are proud to announce the winners of the second annual Financial Advisor IQ Service Awards. The awards honor those the asset managers, DC plan recordkeepers and other business partners that advisors consider most valuable to their day-to-day practices. The 2021 FA-IQ Service Awards are based on 903 responses to an online poll, across brokerage, […]
October! It’s time to fill out the quarterly sales survey.
{October 4th, 2021} by Wink's Intel Pros
How do you collect life insurance companies’ annuity and life insurance sales data each quarter? 1. We email the survey to insurance companies on the last day of the quarter. 2. We give the insurers most of the month after the end of the quarter (i.e. 3rd Quarter’s sales are due 10/29) to complete […]
Making sense of the RILA revolution
{October 3rd, 2021} by Athene
With sales topping $24 billion in 2020, registered index-linked annuity (RILA) sales have maintained a 38% compound annual growth rate since they were introduced nearly a decade ago. Click HERE to read the full story via InvestmentNews Wink’s note: Wink classifies “RILAs” as structured annuities.
SECOND QUARTER 2021 ANNUITY SALES
{September 29th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Deferred Annuity Sales Total 2Q2021 deferred annuity sales were $64,492,263,828. Second quarter deferred annuity sales were up nearly 11% when compared to the previous quarter and up more than 40% when compared to the same period last year. Deferred annuities include sales of fixed, indexed, and multi-year guaranteed deferred annuities. Non-Variable Deferred […]
Buying Life Insurance? The Industry Is Being Transformed. What You Need to Know.
{September 28th, 2021} by Leslie Scism
A growing number of U.S. life insurers—small, midsize and some of the industry’s biggest household names—have sold or announced they will sell their U.S. consumer life-insurance and annuity businesses. Most are selling to a nontraditional type of owner: private-equity firms, asset managers, hedge funds and other investment entities. Some of the industry newcomers are buying […]
An Agent’s Case for Term Life
{September 28th, 2021} by Mark A. Peterson
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused everyday Americans to seriously consider their own mortality and the potential financial consequences for their loved ones. As a result of people’s heightened focus around health and financial security, we have seen an increased awareness of the value of life insurance — particularly with younger generations. In the first six […]
Arent Fox Represents Opt-Out Plaintiffs in Coordination with Class Actions Against Universal Life Insurance Carriers for Unlawful Cost-of-Insurance Increases
{September 28th, 2021} by Franjo Dolenac and Julius Rousseau, III
The absence of insurance regulations to limit or deter unlawful cost-of-insurance (“COI”) increases for universal life insurance (“ULI”) policies has resulted in a flurry of class action activity against carriers. Some carriers have increased COI rates by as much as 100 percent in a single year, leaving ULI policy owners to fend for themselves […]
I’m HIPP, and That’s Not Cool
{September 28th, 2021} by John Rafferty
Huey Lewis and The News once sang, “It’s Hip to be Square.” My wife and I are also HIPP. We’re “High Income, Pre-retired, and Pension-less.” HIPP is not so cool. I don’t think it squares with a solid retirement strategy. Click HERE to read the full story via RIJ
Getting to know our Chief Everything Officer
{September 28th, 2021} by Wink's Intel Pros
VICTORIA L. GROSSMAN, A.K.A. TORI, A.K.A. THE “DECISION DIVA.” Victoria, Chief Everything Officer, was the first employee that Sheryl J. Moore hired to work with her at Wink. She became a member of the Moore family after Sheryl’s then four-year-old son hit on her at her teenage job. Always willing to help a friend, and […]
Online Sales Data Query: Subscribers only
{September 28th, 2021} by Wink's Intel Pros
Wink’s online Sales Data Query allows Wink’s Sales & Market Report subscribers to search sales by company, sales per distribution channel, sales based upon company ratings, sales of products* with specific product/rider features. Platinum-level subscribers and insurers now have over 20 years of data included in the online query as a part of their subscription. […]
16 Ways Seasonal Businesses Can Better Manage Finances During Sales Cycles
{September 28th, 2021} by Forbes Finance Council
4. Diversify The best way to weather seasonal storms is to develop multiple revenue centers. Launch one when another is doing less than great. This way, you and your business will be able to weather the ups and downs of cash flow and revenue challenges. – Sheryl J. Moore, Wink, Inc. Click HERE to read the […]
What the Secure Act Means for Annuities in Retirement Plans
{September 28th, 2021} by David Paul and Michelle Ritcher
On Dec. 20, 2019, President Trump signed the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (Secure) Act into law. This bipartisan legislation, which had been in the works for several years, seeks to further promote access to retirement income within the 401(k) market. An important aspect of this act is a “safe harbor” provision for […]
This Top Raymond James Annuity Broker Runs a Record Label, Too
{September 28th, 2021} by Jane Wollman Rusoff
When Jeffrey Oster finally admitted that his career Plan A would not materialize, he embarked on freshly created Plan B — far, far afield indeed from Plan A. Nevertheless, this would soon allow him to happily pick up Plan A without quitting what turned out to be a successful, lucrative Plan B career. Plan A? […]
Lincoln Financial Group Announces Flow Reinsurance Transaction With Talcott Resolution
{September 28th, 2021} by Lincoln Financial Group
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC) today announced it has entered into an agreement with Talcott Resolution Life Insurance Company to reinsure up to $1.5 billion in sales of Lincoln’s flagship variable annuity living benefit rider. The transaction covers business issued from April 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. “Recent industry transactions reflect an […]
Riskalyze and Allianz Life Form Strategic Alliance on Technology and Analytics for Select Annuity Products
{September 28th, 2021} by Riskalyze
AUBURN, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Riskalyze, the company that invented the Risk Number®, today announced a new partnership with Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life), a leading retirement solution provider that has helped Americans prepare for their financial future for more than 125 years. As part of this relationship, Allianz Life will be featured in the Riskalyze Partner Store, […]
Panel: Variable Annuities Still Alive, Have Opportunities To Thrive Again
{September 28th, 2021} by John Hilton
The variable annuity market is in a transition period reliant on product and regulatory evolution to keep sales high. If that evolution takes place, VAs could easily recapture their former glory while meeting consumers’ needs in a variety of ways, an Insured Retirement Institute panel agreed this week. The nonqualified variable annuity market is growing […]
Why Life Insurance Must Be A Key Element in Any Financial Strategy
{September 28th, 2021} by Steve Rueschhoff and David Levenson
The COVID-19 experience has made it clear that life is fragile – physically, emotionally and financially. For many Americans, the pandemic has been a wake-up call, a trigger to reexamine the financial strategies they have created to prepare for the unexpected. Life insurance must be an essential piece of those strategies. Click HERE to read […]
How 2 Couples Covered Their Income Gaps for Life with Income Annuities
{September 28th, 2021} by Ken Nuss
When you’re planning your retirement, consider your need for cash flow. If your cash flow isn’t right, the rest of your investment strategy will become unstable. You may need to sell off investments when you have to rather than when you want to. To determine your needs for cash now and in the future, here are some questions […]
5 Secrets for Annuity Selling Success
{September 28th, 2021} by Bill Broich
Before I get started, let me handle the gorilla in the room: You need to have a marketing budget. You must invest in yourself. The amount you are willing to invest will affect the success you will find. If you do not have funds set aside, don’t read any further. I hear it all the […]
Annuity Litigation Roundup
{September 28th, 2021} by Dimitrije Canic, Brooke Patterson
Court Emphasizes Disclosure Substance Over Form A recent decision in Nofsinger v. Jackson National Life Insurance Co. shut down a putative class action in which the plaintiff alleged she surrendered her annuity contract after receiving a deceptive letter regarding her contract options from Jackson National and was then charged an improper surrender charge. In Nofsinger, the plaintiff purchased […]
Empowering Lead-HER-ship in Insurance
{September 27th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Remind me to tell you about the insurance company CMO that devastated my business for over a decade, by pushing me into Imposter Syndrome! -sjm Register here
Allianz Is Said Planning to Offload Large U.S. Life Portfolio
{September 27th, 2021} by an-Henrik Foerster, Eyk Henning, and Matthew Monks
Allianz SE is working to offload a large block of U.S. life insurance policies in a move that could free up several billion dollars in capital, people with knowledge of the matter said. Europe’s largest insurer is discussing a potential reinsurance deal for a portfolio with tens of billions of dollars in assets and liabilities, according […]
Setting it Straight
{September 27th, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
As a third-party neutral product expert, I have a few concerns about this article. 1. Insurance has a cost and annuities are not intended to be an investment, akin to stocks, bonds, etc. 2. What is the price that you would pay for a guaranteed paycheck for life? Certainly, the insurance company shouldn’t be expected […]
Governor Whitmer Proclaims September as Life Insurance and Annuity Awareness Month; DIFS Announces $3.9 Million Recovered for Consumers
{September 27th, 2021} by Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services
Media Contact: Laura Hall, 517-290-3779,DIFS-Press@michigan.gov Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 23, 2021 (LANSING, MICH) Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed September as Life Insurance and Annuity Awareness Month, and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) and the Life Insurance Association of Michigan (LIAM) are reminding consumers of the importance of life insurance. “Life insurance not only provides […]
The Hidden Benefits of Universal Life Insurance
{September 27th, 2021} by INN Feed
iQuanti: Universal life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance. In other words, the policy will cover you for your entire life assuming required premiums are paid and all requirements of keeping the policy active are fulfilled. Some universal life insurance policies offer cash value and flexibility with premiums and death benefit that give […]
Prudential Financial to sell $31B PALAC block of legacy variable annuities to Fortitude Re
{September 21st, 2021} by Fortitude Group Holdings
NEWARK & JERSEY CITY, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (“Prudential”) (NYSE: PRU) and Fortitude Group Holdings, LLC, the parent company of Bermuda’s largest multi-line reinsurer (“Fortitude Re”), today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Prudential will sell a portion of its in-force legacy variable annuity block to Fortitude Re for a […]
14 Financial Documents That Business Leaders Should Keep A Hard Copy Of (Even In The Digital World)
{September 21st, 2021} by Forbes Financial Council
4. Your Articles Of Incorporation Your articles of incorporation should always be kept in hard copy for S- and C- Corps. This documentation is requested so frequently by banks, investors and others. By all means, digitize it, but keep a hard copy handy as well. – Sheryl J. Moore, Wink, Inc. Click HERE to read the full […]
Hi. Newsflash.
{September 21st, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
If you are using software that looks at historical performance of indexed annuities, ask if they are <emphasis here> assuming the options costs that were in effect at the time of the historical period. <emphasis here> I do not know of a SINGLE one that does. If they are not using historical option costs, while […]
Thanks for peeing in our own pool.
{September 21st, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Illustration software showing indexed annuities with indexing methods yielding 14%+. REALLY?! A fixed insurance product with a 0% floor, in a prohibitive options pricing environment, with one of the most historically conservative insurance companies in the industry. SMH. Does the insurance company know? *angry* This is why insurance illustrations that are not compliant with the National […]
Lincoln to Reinsure $9.4B in UL and Executive Benefits Policies
{September 21st, 2021} by Allison Bell
Lincoln Financial wants to shed a large amount of risk associated with old insurance policies while continuing to sell new policies. The Radnor, Pennsylvania-based life insurer today announced that it has arranged to have Security Life of Denver — an arm of Resolution Life Group Holdings — reinsure a block of in-force universal life insurance […]
American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI): Policyholders’ COVID-19 Vaccine Status Does Not Affect Life Insurance Claims
{September 21st, 2021} by ACLI
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) Senior Health Actuary Jan Graeber issued the following statement on misinformation relating to COVID-19 vaccines: “We said it before and, unfortunately, we must say it again because misinformation about life insurance claims and the COVID-19 vaccine continues to spread. “Policyholders should rest assured that nothing has […]
Annexus and PlanGap Partner To Offer Timely Protection For Social Security
{September 21st, 2021} by Annexus
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 21, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Annexus, the leading independent product design and distribution company of fixed indexed annuities (FIAs) and indexed universal life insurance policies, and PlanGap, a financial product innovation company pioneering Social Security protection, have announced a strategic partnership. The partnership provides Annexus exclusive rights to add a patent pending PlanGap® feature to […]
A New Path to Inflation-Proof Lifetime Income
{September 21st, 2021} by Kerry Pechter
Achaean Financial and National Western Life Insurance are finally bringing to market Lorry Stensrud’s long-nurtured idea for an immediate income annuity with upside potential. RIJ recently obtained a copy of the state filing document from National Western. State approvals are pending. Click HERE to read the full story via RIJ
Insurers Can Close The Coverage Gap While Helping Underserved Groups
{September 21st, 2021} by Susan Rupe
Consumers showed a greater interest in buying life insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic, but how can carriers continue to capitalize on that interest? How can insurers close the coverage gap while bolstering diversity, equity and inclusion? A recent report by Deloitte Center for Financial Services, “Financial Inclusion And The Underserved Life Insurance Market,” analyzed ways […]
It’s Time to Shine, Birmingham: Protective Life Corporation and the BJCC Celebrate the Official Lighting of Protective Stadium
{September 21st, 2021} by Protective Life Corporation
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) celebrated alongside employees, elected officials, business and community leaders and project partners as the Protective Stadium identification signage was officially turned on for the first time at Protective Stadium last evening. […]
AM Best Comments on Credit Ratings of Fortitude Reinsurance Company Ltd. Following Announced Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation Acquisition
{September 21st, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has commented that the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” (Excellent) of Fortitude Reinsurance Company Ltd. (Fortitude Re) (Bermuda) remain unchanged following the its parent company’s recent agreement to acquire Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation (PALAC) (Arizona). AM Best views the acquisition of PALAC, […]
Resolution Life Enters Into Reinsurance Agreement With Lincoln Financial Group
{September 21st, 2021} by Resolution Life US Holdings
WEST CHESTER, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Resolution Life US Holdings Inc., a subsidiary of Resolution Life Group Holdings LP (‘Resolution Life’), a global manager of in-force life insurance businesses, today announced the signing of a $9.4 billion reinsurance transaction between its insurance subsidiary, Security Life of Denver Insurance Company (‘SLD’) and Lincoln National Corporation’s (‘Lincoln’) insurance subsidiary, The […]
Jackson Financial Announces Second Quarter 2021 Results
{September 21st, 2021} by Jackson Financial Inc.
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN) today announced financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2021. Jackson separated from Prudential plc on September 13, 2021, and the second quarter results mark the company’s first quarterly earnings report as an independent public company. Key Highlights Net loss of $540 million, or ($5.72) per diluted […]
AM Best Places Credit Ratings of Prudential Annuity Life Assurance Corporation Under Review With Negative Implications
{September 21st, 2021} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has placed under review with negative implications the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” (Superior) of Prudential Annuity Life Assurance Corporation (PALAC), headquartered in Newark, NJ. PALAC’s Credit Ratings (ratings) were placed under review with negative implications following the announcement that Fortitude Group Holdings, […]
Allianz Life Study Sheds Light on “One-Size-Fits-All” Retirement Planning Problem for BIPOC Communities
{September 21st, 2021} by Allianz Life
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The majority of Americans who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, including Hispanic and Asian/Asian Americans) believe they won’t have enough saved for retirement (52% Black/African American; 56% Hispanic; 62% Asian/Asian American), according to the 2021 Retirement Risk Readiness Study* from Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). While […]
Life Insurance Activity Returns To Year-Over-Year Growth, MIB Reports
{September 21st, 2021} by MIB Life Index
U.S. life insurance application activity returned to growth in August 2021 compared to August 2020 with year-over-year activity up 5.5%, MIB reports. While year-over-year comparisons are impacted by fluctuations in 2020 activity due to COVID, when comparing results to 2019, August 2021 is up 9.5%, MIB reported. The industry remains on track for a strong […]
Principal Financial Group signals it will cut some Des Moines positions amid restructuring
{September 21st, 2021} by Tyler Jett
Principal Financial Group is laying off some Des Moines workers as the company shutters some of its lines of business. Principal issued a notice to the state last week, announcing plans to cut 25 positions by Oct. 11. The Des Moines-based financial services company, which employs about 6,300 workers in the metro, announced in June that it […]
Life Insurance Awareness Month
{September 21st, 2021} by Wink's Intel Pros
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month #LIAM! Wink supports Life Insurance Awareness and will be joining in this month’s awareness campaign! We will be reprinting our CEO’s most requested life insurance-focused articles all month long; they will be indicated with “reprint” in the title. You’ll find these timeless articles are still relevant today. According […]
Reliable and Relevant: Reprint #LIAM
{September 21st, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
I will never forget the day when Grandfather came home with tears in his eyes, talking about his client who had died unexpectedly. You see, this client’s wife had just held my grandfather’s hand for hours, as people came through a funeral home, paying their last respects to her husband. She repeatedly thanked him, looking […]
FUNDING UNIVERSAL LIFE INSURANCE AT TARGET? YOU’RE MISSING THE POINT: REPRINT #LIAM
{September 21st, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
The following article is a reprint, originally written July 15, 2013 by Sheryl J. Moore: Throughout the past [20] years of working with universal life (UL) products, one comment in particular has been overheard far too often: “…fund this UL at [X percent] over target.” This comment is especially popular in the indexed life market, […]
We Need Help Growing Life Insurance Distribution: REPRINT #LIAM
{September 21st, 2021} by Sheryl J. Moore
Originally posted February 5, 2011 by Sheryl J. Moore Most of you know that I am passionate about indexed life insurance and indexed annuities. However, I am passionate about insurance products in general. In fact, one of the things that I am MOST passionate about is growing our distribution! Not so long ago, life insurance […]
FAs Weigh In: Remote Work, Comp, Mentoring Ideal for Female Advisors
{September 21st, 2021} by Rita Raagas De Ramos
FA-IQ reached out to advisors to ask: What advice would you give to young women considering becoming advisors? Susan Sofronas, managing director at Geller Advisors. New York City and Los Angeles-based Sofronas has been in the industry for 30 years and her firm has $4.6 billion in client assets. Click HERE to read the full […]
