Half Of Us Have Nothing Saved For Retirement
{November 26th, 2014} by Paul Grimaldi, The Providence Journal, R.I.
Nov. 23–PROVIDENCE — Nancy Hardendorf is about to step into the great unknown for middle-class Americans: retirement. “I think everybody is afraid … you never think that there’s going to be enough [money],” said Hardendorf, an administrator at Johnson & Wales University. As many of her friends have retired over the last few years, Hardendorf […]
The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company Announces a Dividend Scale Increase and Highest Dividend Award in a Decade
{November 26th, 2014} by Business Wire
HORSHAM, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– As a testament to the company’s strong financial performance and commitment to its policyholders, The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, a 167-year-old institution, is pleased to announce an increase in its dividend scale for a significant portion of our whole life block of business, after maintaining it for the previous six years. […]
4 Directors To Leave Kansas Insurance Department
{November 26th, 2014} by The Principal Financial Well-BeingSM
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Four directors will retire from theKansas Insurance Department onDec. 5. The retirements announced Tuesday come as Insurance CommissionerSandy Praeger prepares to leave office in January. Department spokesmanBob Hanson says the retirements were all planned. The Topeka Capital Journal reports (http://bit.ly/1vc6hYE ) directorsMarlyn Burch, life division;Neil Woerman, information technology;Steve O’Neil, consumer assistance; […]
Fiduciary rule among SEC’s 2015 priorities
{November 26th, 2014} by Melanie Waddell
Among the top Dodd-Frank Act rulemakings that the Securities and Exchange Commission will focus on in fiscal 2015 are evaluating recommendations from a staff report to consider a uniform fiduciary standard for investment advisors and broker-dealers as well as finding ways to harmonize rules for advisors and brokers, the agency said in its just-released financial […]
Penn Mutual Plans To Grow, Broaden Its Producer Base
{November 26th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
In a placid corner of a suburban Philadelphia business park, Penn Mutual hums along quietly, efficiently and profitably. The company has been in business for nearly 168 years, since 1847, when there were only 29 stars on the U.S. flag. The company is named after William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, although he predates Penn Mutual […]
My 13 favorite stories: BLOG
{November 26th, 2014} by Bill Coffin
In the four-and-a-half years I have worked for National Underwriter, LifeHealthPro and PropertyCasualty360, I have had the opportunity to produce some stories of which I am very proud. Writing for these brands, and most importantly, serving this audience, has been a special honor and privilege, and I am glad to have been afforded this most […]
Jackson Retains Top Spot In 3Q Annuity Sales
{November 26th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – Jackson National retained the top spot among individual annuity writers in the third quarter of 2014, according to new data released by LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute. Total U.S. annuity sales fell 2 percent in the third quarter compared to the year-ago period, according to LIMRA SRI data. This reflects declining consumer interest in […]
Wink, Inc. Releases Third Quarter, 2014 Indexed Sales Results
{November 26th, 2014} by Wink, Inc.
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE YTD INDEXED ANNUITY SALES GREATER THAN ANY FULL YEAR BUT 2013! Wink, Inc. Releases Third Quarter, 2014 Indexed Sales Results Pleasant Hill, Iowa. November 18, 2014- Forty-seven indexed annuity carriers participated in the 69th edition of Wink’s Sales & Market Report, representing 99.8% of indexed annuity production. Total […]
US Sales of Indexed Universal Life Rose 18.7% as Debate Over IUL Illustrated Rates Continues
{November 26th, 2014} by Fran Matso Lysiak
PLEASANT HILL, Iowa – As issues over illustrated rates for indexed universal life insurance are sorted out, competition among companies in the overall universal life product space is growing, according to Sheryl Moore, president and chief executive officer of Wink and Moore Market Intelligence. Third-quarter U.S. sales of indexed universal life rose to $372.8 million, […]
Gratitudegiving Day: Blog
{November 26th, 2014} by Steven A. Morelli
Thanksgiving ̶ such a wonderful word that we’ve filled with dread. Anxiety over food and house preparation, travel and awkward conversations have crowded out the intention of sharing bounty and company. As the holidays approach, many of us wince at the prospect of a few months of planning, traveling, overspending, overeating, overdrinking, oversharing and regretting […]
Enhancements to Lincoln Financial Group’s Term, Survivorship Indexed Universal Life Insurance Offerings Provide New Strategies for Achieving Goal-Based Outcomes
{November 26th, 2014} by Business Wire
Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE:LNC) has announced enhancements to its life insurance portfolio of products, with updates to its Term and Survivorship Indexed Universal Life (SIUL) offerings. The enhancements offer new strategies for advisors to use in helping clients achieve goal-based outcomes, by providing added flexibility in planning for income replacement needs, tax efficient wealth transfer […]
Mutual of Omaha CEO Neary to Retire; Blackledge Named President, Successor
{November 26th, 2014} by Mutual of Omaha
Omaha, Neb.-based Mutual of Omaha Chairman and CEO Dan Neary announced that he will retire in 2015. He will retain the role of chairman of the company’s board of directors. Executive Vice President James T. Blackledge has been appointed president of the company and picked to succeed Neary as CEO upon Neary’s retirement. Named Chairman […]
Feds Fight Over GAO SIFI Report
{November 26th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – Treasury and Federal Reserve officials are challenging a Government Accountability Office report calling for changes in the process that the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) uses in designating non-banks as systemically important financial institutions (SIFI). Disclosure of strong disagreement with a GAO report is rare, with most federal agencies merely acknowledging the report […]
8 great takeaways from NAILBA 33
{November 26th, 2014} by Daniel Williams
At NAILBA 33, speakers and attendees exchanged information that is most pertinent to the insurance industry. Among the topics covered were: New ways to serve clients and differentiate your firm; thinking differently about cash accumulation products; and social selling—how to prospect and generate leads with LinkedIn, just to name a few. On the following pages, […]
Symetra to Pay $1.2 Million to States in Latest Death Master File Settlement Pact
{November 26th, 2014} by Thomas Harman
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Symetra Life Insurance Co. and Symetra National Life Insurance Co. have reached a $1.2 million multistate market conduct agreement to reform business practices when using the Social Security Death Master File database. Symetra becomes the 15th life insurer that has agreed to such reforms when using the database in order to search […]
New York Life To Increase Dividend Payout By 11% In 2015
{November 26th, 2014} by New York Life
Marks Highest Dividend Payout for Individual Life Policies in Company History Company Cites Growing Investment Management Business as Increasing Contributor to Dividends NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–New York Life, America’s largest mutual life insurer, today announced its dividend payout will increase next year by 11 percent, for a total payout of$1.6 billion. Of this, individual life policyholders […]
The Annuitized Future is Another Step Closer: Blog
{November 26th, 2014} by Linda Koco
The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) has made another move to beef up lifetime income streams for certain retirement plan participants. It did this by issuing a new rule. It’s a rule that insurance and financial advisors probably won’t bump into very often but that will nevertheless get an advisory heads-up. That’s because it represents […]
Delaware Life Outlook Raised by A.M. Best
{November 25th, 2014} by Delaware Life
Effective November 20, 2014, A.M. Best has revised the outlook to stable from negative and affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the issuer credit rating of “a-” of Delaware Life Insurance Company and Delaware Life Insurance Company of New York (collectively, Delaware Life). This represents Delaware Life’s second favorable outlook revision by […]
BGAs Branch Out To New Markets
{November 25th, 2014} by Linda Koco
The question facing brokerage general agents (BGAs) today is how to keep existing customers while also finding new customers, according to Barbara Crowley. She is the 2014 chair of the National Association of Independent Life Brokerage Agencies (NAILBA). Customers in this case are not consumers, but producers who provide insurance products, service and guidance to […]
Genworth Launches R70 Age Simulation Suit to Help Americans Think Long Term
{November 25th, 2014} by Genworth
70% of Americans Age 65 or Older Will Require Some Form of Long Term Care1 RICHMOND, Va., Nov. 20, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Genworth (NYSE: GNW) unveiled the Genworth R70, a first of its kind, state-of-the-art age simulation suit that will help raise awareness about the need for long term care planning and educate the […]
Securian Financial Group Acquires Majority Interest in Insurance Asset Manager
{November 25th, 2014} by Securian Financial Group, Inc.
Transaction more than triples Securian’s external insurance assets under management November 20, 2014 12:27 PM Eastern Standard Time ST. PAUL, Minn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Securian Financial Group executed a definitive agreement to purchase a majority interest in Asset Allocation & Management Company (AAM) from a private equity fund managed by Stone Point Capital and related investors. Founded in […]
Indexed annuity sales skyrocket
{November 25th, 2014} by Lynette Gil
A new report from Wink, Inc., the 69th edition of Wink’s Sales & Market Report, which took into account 99.8 percent of indexed annuity production and with 47 indexed annuity carriers as participants, reveals that the market can easily do over $45 billion in sales by the end of this year. A total of $11.4 […]
TIAA-CREF Survey: Half of Employees Approaching Retirement Wish They Had Started Saving Sooner
{November 25th, 2014} by TIAA-CREF
Running out of money to cover monthly expenses is the top concern for near-retirees NEW YORK, November 19, 2014 – More than half (52 percent) of people approaching retirement (age 55-64) say they wish they had started saving for the future sooner, according to results from a new TIAA-CREF survey. Many say they wish they […]
Fidelity & Guaranty profit falls, beats expectations
{November 25th, 2014} by Matthew Patane
Fidelity & Guaranty Life saw its profits fall for the fourth quarter and 2014 fiscal year, but still beat expectations. The Des Moines-based life insurance company reported operating income of $27.9 million, or 48 cents per share, for the fourth quarter that ended Sept. 30. That is down about 65 percent from $79.7 million, or […]
Conn. Insurance Commissioner Leaves For NY Firm
{November 25th, 2014} by The Associated Press
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut’s insurance commissioner is resigning to take a job with a New York investment banking advisory company. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced Wednesday that Commissioner Thomas Leonardi will be a senior adviser to Evercore, which advises companies on mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, public offerings and other financing methods and sales and […]
Women Around the World Share Retirement-Related Aspirations and Anxieties
{November 25th, 2014} by Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies
Although specific circumstances vary by country, many challenges are common to all LOS ANGELES, Nov. 20, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — New research from nonprofit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® (TCRS) in collaboration with Aegon examines the retirement preparedness of women in the workforce in the United States and around the world. Women: Balancing Family, Career & […]
IULs Fill Growing Gap in Retirement Plans
{November 25th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
Suddenly, there’s a lot of action surrounding indexed universal life insurance products. Sales are brisk, and a task force by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners is debating what illustrations that agents and carriers can use in marketing the products. Meanwhile, a New York financial watchdog has launched a probe into sales practices associated with […]
NAIC Names Lindeen 2015 President; Leadership Sees International Talks, PBR Approval Among Top Issues
{November 25th, 2014} by Thomas Harman
WASHINGTON – Monica Lindeen, the new National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ president, said international efforts to move toward a global capital standard proposed by the International Association of Insurance Supervisors will be among the major issues the NAIC will deal with in her tenure. The officers, elected Nov. 19 at the conclusion of its Fall […]
NAILBA Makes More Time to Make Business
{November 24th, 2014} by Linda Koco
The National Association of Independent Life Brokerage Agencies (NAILBA) is plowing new ground in terms of how it handles networking. Simply put, NAILBA has ”reengineered” the meeting structure to allow for a four-hour networking window at its annual meeting, said Barbara Crowley, the 2014 NAILBA Chair, in a meeting announcement. This is a sign that […]
Total annuity sales fall two percent in third quarter
{November 24th, 2014} by Daniel Williams
According to a recent report from LIMRA, lower interest rates continue to place a lag on fixed annuity sales. Going inside the numbers, total U.S. annuity sales reached $58.2 billion in the third quarter, falling two percent from prior year. But all the news was not bad. In the first nine months of 2014, total […]
Death of MassMutual SVP Millan Determined to Be a Homicide
{November 24th, 2014} by Fran Matso Lysiak
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – The death of a senior vice president at MassMutual Financial Group has been determined to be a homicide, according to a statement from the Simsbury, Connecticut Police Department “The untimely death of Melissa Millan on Iron Horse Boulevard in Simsbury on Nov. 20, 2014 has been determined to be a homicide,” said […]
The underwriting forecast for 2015: NAILBA 33
{November 24th, 2014} by Vanessa De La Rosa
At the 2014 NAILBA 33 conference in Hollywood, Florida, Brad Gabel (AIG Global Consumer Insurance), Bill Moore (Swiss Re), and Kathy Deren (Nationwide) joined forces to create the Risk Appraisal Forum, where they discussed the forecast of the underwriting industry as we enter year 2015. Each panelist had a unique perspective on the direction the […]
Report Outlines 6 Common Misconceptions Of Annuity Buying
{November 24th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
A new white paper published by The Principal Financial Group outlines six common annuity purchase misconceptions to watch out for as pension plan risk managers and advisors move defined benefit plan liabilities off the books of plan sponsors and into group annuity contracts. Mike Dulaney, senior consulting actuary at The Principal, said understanding the impact […]
Thinking differently about cash accumulation products
{November 21st, 2014} by Vanessa De La Rosa
If you want to be relevant in this industry, you have to get people who don’t believe in life insurance to start believing in life insurance, says Bobby Samuelson, MetLife, at the 2014 NAILBA 33 in Hollywood, Florida. “At the end of the day, our competition isn’t other advisors selling life insurance.” he adds. “Our […]
Charitable donation as cheap whole life insurance tax deduction
{November 21st, 2014} by Maxime Rieman
More than 95 percent of American households give to charity. Some do it in the form of time — volunteering on the weekends, for instance — while others do it by donating cash or other items of value. For people looking to maximize their charitable donations, whole life insurance policies offer yet another way to […]
NAILBA 33: How LinkedIn can boost your sales
{November 21st, 2014} by Emily Holbrook
LinkedIn is an untapped tool for many sales professionals, especially those within the insurance and financial services industry. That’s according to Amy McIlwain, a social media marketing specialist and author of “The Social Advisor.” She spoke today at the annual NAILBA annual conference, where she shared her insights into LinkedIn and why it’s a good […]
Imeriti Financial Network Leads All Independent Marketing Organizations in Suitability Percentage at Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz)
{November 21st, 2014} by Imeriti Financial Network
Producers Can Rest Easy Knowing Their Business Is Processed Quicker Imeriti Financial Network (IFN), a leading life and annuity Independent Marketing Organization (IMO), has had the lowest Suitability Call Out Ratio (SCOR) percentage of all IMOs doing business with Allianz for the past three years. SCOR is a metric that was developed to focus on […]
Investing in the industry’s future: NAILBA 33
{November 21st, 2014} by Paul Wilson
During the opening general session of NAILBA 33 in Hollywood, Florida, moderator Gene Koster, Managing Director at DCG Consulting, discussed the future of the industry with a group of industry panelists. At one point, he asked them, “Where are you and your companies putting your money today and where do you think you should be […]
Feds Consider Limiting Large IRAs
{November 20th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is suggesting that Congress should revisit the issue of how much money individuals should be allowed to keep in individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The GAO said that is necessary because a small number of taxpayers have accumulated huge sums in IRAs. Added to that, the government is forgoing […]
Panel urges industry to innovate at NAILBA 33
{November 20th, 2014} by Emily Holbrook
To kick off the annual NAILBA 33 conference in Hollywood, Florida this year, a panel of industry experts joined together to discuss the changing landscape of the insurance industry, including evolvement of technology, changing consumer behavior and the new generation of brokers and agents. Click here to read…
Jackson Launches Apps For Advisors, Consumers
{November 20th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
Jackson National Life has upgraded its mobile platform by launching two new iPad apps. The Jackson app, offers consumers access to information on the company’s products and services, and the Retirement Hub app, provides “interactive educational content for investors on a wide variety of financial topics,” the company said. Both apps are available for download […]
Jackson Rolls Out 2 Apps for iPad
{November 20th, 2014} by Proquest LLC
Jackson National Life Insurance Company said it has added several new tools to its suite of digital resources for advisors and consumers. According to a release from the company, the tools include the new Jackson app, offering mobile access to information on Jackson’s products, and the Retirement Hub app, providing interactive educational content for investors […]
Does China have the best life insurance marketing?
{November 20th, 2014} by Maxime Rieman
One of the many sectors that are running red hot in China, the life insurance industry is growing by leaps and bounds. Some of that growth is due to a burgeoning middle class and falling taboos about discussing death. But some of the increase in the number of life insurance policies can be attributed to […]
AALU And NAILBA Form Partnership
{November 20th, 2014} by N/A
(Fairfax, Va.)The Association for Advanced Life Underwriting (AALU) and the National Association of Independent Life Brokerage Agencies (NAILBA) have entered into an agreement to share services that will strengthen both organizations and the life insurance industry, according to leaders and members from the two groups. “We live in critical times for the industry and for […]
5 reasons you need an annuity that the Motley Fool will never tell you
{November 20th, 2014} by Dan McGrath
For the past few years, The Motley Fool has been releasing articles on the five worst things that you can do with your money. Their latest advice (brought to you by Sean Williams, a “Fool” since 2010), does not make sense in the big picture of retirement, especially when your health care costs are factored […]
Life Business Gets Kudos For Service, But Not Discounts: Blog
{November 20th, 2014} by Linda Koco
Life insurance professionals might be a pleasantly surprised by consumer rankings on the life insurance business that the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) has just published. In one area, they might be a bit puzzled too. On the pleasantly surprised side, consumers gave life insurers a pretty strong satisfaction rating on the speed and efficiency […]
Fidelity & Guaranty Life Reports Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2014 Results
{November 19th, 2014} by Fidelity & Guaranty Life
– Reported net income of $38.7 million for the fourth fiscal quarter – Fixed indexed annuity sales of $455 million, the highest in nine quarters – Net investment spreads increased 59 basis points over prior year for fixed indexed annuities DES MOINES, Iowa, Nov. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Fidelity & Guaranty Life (NYSE: FGL), a […]
VAs Drag Down Annuity Market
{November 19th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – Total U.S. annuity sales fell 2 percent in the third quarter of 2014, compared to a year ago, reflecting declining consumer interest in fixed annuities due to lower interest rates, according to the LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute (SRI). However, the overall picture for annuities sales this year was a strong positive, with overall […]
PA. financial adviser sued for swindling mom, other relatives out of $400,000
{November 19th, 2014} by IFAwebnews Staff
Still waiting to learn whether he’ll face federal criminal charges, former financial adviser Jason Muskey, of Moosic, Pa., was sued Friday for swindling his mother, his wife’s uncle and aunt and two others out of almost $400,000 using a Ponzi scheme in the Northeastern Pennsylvania town. The money included more than $25,000 in life insurance […]
6 steps to using social media to build your advisory business
{November 19th, 2014} by Linda Pittman
You’re an advisor, you’re on social media, and you want to grow your business. Perhaps you share content with your LinkedIn network and often update your Facebook Business Page with an interesting article or photo that shows your personal side. In short, you’ve established a solid social media presence with your audience. Click here to […]
THIRD QUARTER 2014 INDEXED INSURANCE SALES
{November 19th, 2014} by Sheryl J. Moore
Indexed Annuity Wink’s Sales & Market Report, 3rd Quarter 2014 shows third quarter 2014 indexed annuity sales were $11,488 million, compared with sales of $10,050 million for the third quarter of 2013. Third quarter indexed annuity sales were down nearly 9.00% when compared to the previous quarter, and up more than 14.00% when compared […]
The New Buzz with Indexed Annuities: Hybrid Indices
{November 19th, 2014} by Victoria Peterson and Jamie Johnson
We have been shouting this from the roof-tops, and see you posting and tweeting about it too: Indexed annuity sales were off the charts for the first half of 2014! In fact, second-quarter sales alone were $12.6 billion according to Wink’s Sales & Market Report. To gain perspective on how fantastic this is, second quarter […]
Make an annuity date with real estate right now
{November 18th, 2014} by Kevin Startt
They say that the definition of a good real estate agent is someone who has had a mortgage loophole named after them. Judging by a couple of recent articles though, real estate agents may have the last laugh as the housing industry shows increasing promise of continued growth. The entire financial services industry seems to […]
NAIC Panel Seeks to End Industry Divide Over Indexed Universal Life Illustration Standards
{November 18th, 2014} by Thomas Harman
WASHINGTON – A National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ panel is offering a compromise to end an industry divide on how companies should present indexed universal life insurance products to consumers. The NAIC life actuarial task force has been the site of debate about how to provide information about IULs to consumers through illustrations as the […]
Fidelity & Guaranty Life Adds Flexibility To Fixed Index Life Product
{November 18th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
Fidelity & Guaranty Life announced it has added some flexibility to its fixed index universal life product by offering another interest crediting option that guarantees an interest rate of at least 3 percent. The option was made available to advisors and producers beginning Oct. 31. With this latest announcement by F&G, Life-Choice policyholders and advisors […]
Phoenix Life Posts 3Q Statutory Net Income
{November 18th, 2014} by Fran Matso Lysiak
HARTFORD, Conn. – Phoenix Life Insurance Co. posted a third-quarter statutory net income of $41.5 million, from a statutory net loss of $4.1 million in the second quarter. The change was driven by higher net investment income and favorable mortality but was offset by higher expenses. Phoenix Cos. Inc. provided the third-quarter unaudited statutory results […]
Federal Roundup
{November 17th, 2014} by NAFA Staff
Congress returns next week from an active campaign season that resulted in a huge win for Republicans. The House gained a stronger historic Republican majority, and the Senate election produced a larger than expected Republican majority. Now D.C. insiders are already concentrating on 2016, when more Senate seats are up and a significant presidential election […]
MetLife Completes Captive Merger
{November 17th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – MetLife announced today that it has completed a merger aimed at reducing the risk profile of its variable annuity (VA) business and bringing its offshore captive business to the U.S. Under the new setup, MetLife subsidiaries MetLife Insurance Co. of Connecticut, MetLife Investors USA Insurance Co., MetLife Investors Insurance Co. and Exeter Reassurance […]
Today’s Widows Still Need Life Insurance: Blog
{November 17th, 2014} by Linda Koco
There was a time when life insurers put a lot of time and effort into educating producers and the public about the financial impact of the loss of a spouse. That was in line with the industry’s long-standing mission. This was to ensure that families had enough coverage on the major breadwinner to ensure the […]
Study: Alzheimer’s test detects disease decade ahead of onset
{November 17th, 2014} by Megan Scudellari
(Bloomberg) – A new blood test for Alzheimer’s appears to detect the disease as many as 10 years before clinical diagnosis is possible — far sooner than other tests in development. The test, described publicly for the first time yesterday, could soon be used to identify and treat patients with Alzheimer’s earlier in their disease […]
MetLife Completes Merger of Three Life Companies, Offshore Reinsurer to Address Regulatory Issues
{November 17th, 2014} by Fran Matso Lysiak
NEW YORK – MetLife Inc. said it’s completed the merger of three life insurance companies and a former offshore reinsurance subsidiary, with the merged company renamed MetLife Insurance Co. USA that’s domiciled in Delaware. The decision was part of the largest U.S. life insurer’s larger effort to de-risk its stock market-linked U.S. variable annuity business. […]
Mallon to Retire From AIG Life Post in March 2015
{November 17th, 2014} by David Pilla
NEW YORK – James A. Mallon, president of life insurance with AIG Global Consumer Insurance, will retire effective in March 2015. “Jim will be retiring after 10 years with AIG and an impressive 40-plus years in the life insurance industry,” said Kevin Hogan, chief executive officer of AIG Global Consumer Insurance, in a statement. “Jim […]
IUL Illustration Rules Clash at NAIC
{November 16th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON — An NAIC task force wants to have a compromise regulation on the illustrations insurers and agents can use in marketing indexed universal life insurance (IUL) ready for task force action at the spring NAIC meeting in late March. The call for compromise came after conflicting testimony on a proposal from the American Council […]
SIFI — Sci-Fi? See-Fee? Siffy? : Blog
{November 15th, 2014} by Linda Koco
When some industry professionals see the term SIFI, most know that it refers to the Dodd-Frank-created concept of “systemically important financial institution.” What they don’t seem to know if how to pronounce the doggone term. I’ve heard people refer to it as SI-FI, as in Hi-Fi, the once common moniker for high fidelity, as in […]
AIG Taps Its Corporate Chief Actuary to Be Life/Health CEO
{November 15th, 2014} by Fran Matso Lysiak
NEW YORK – American International Group Inc. has tapped Charlie Shamieh, its corporate chief actuary, as chief executive officer of its life, health and disability insurance operations. His appointment takes effect in March 2015. Shamieh has more than 28 years of industry experience, having held senior insurance and reinsurance executive positions across three continents, AIG […]
ING Cuts Stake in Voya Financial, Selling 34.5 Million Shares for $1.4 Billion
{November 14th, 2014} by Thomas Harman
AMSTERDAM – ING Group has agreed to sell 34.5 million shares of Voya Financial Inc. common stock for $1.4 billion as part of an underwritten public offering. As part of the deal, Voya is repurchasing nearly 4.5 million of its common stock shares from ING. The sale cuts ING ‘s stake of Voya from 32.5% […]
Sun Life Settles Death Master File Case for $3.2 Million
{November 14th, 2014} by Jeff Jeffrey
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Sun Life Co. has agreed to pay $3.2 million to settle a multistate investigation into the company’s use of the Social Security Administration’s Death Master File to settle life insurance claims. The multistate examination was conducted by Florida, which served as the managing lead state, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Michigan, New Hampshire, North […]
Asian insurance sales boost Manulife profit $972 million
{November 14th, 2014} by Katia Dmitrieva
(Bloomberg) — Manulife Financial Corp., Canada’s largest life insurer, said profit rose 6.4 percent in the third quarter as wealth and insurance sales jumped in Asia, countering declines in Canada and the U.S. Net income climbed to C$1.1 billion ($972 million), or 57 cents a share, from C$1.03 billion, or 54 cents, a year earlier, […]
LICENSED TO SELL… AND STAY COMPLIANT! PART II
{November 14th, 2014} by Kim O'Brien
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT In the last issue, we mentioned there were a number of significant developments in state actions against sellers of annuities. Those state actions provided insight about what regulators and prosecutors are watching. Over the course of the last two months, we continued travelling to many of our members’ meetings and spoke […]
Idaho Commissioner Bill Deal to Retire
{November 14th, 2014} by Jeff Jeffrey
BOISE, Idaho – Idaho Insurance Director Bill Deal has announced he will retire in December after eight years as the state’s top insurance regulator. Deal was tapped to lead the state’s Insurance Department in 2007 by Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter, a Republican. Otter has not announced Deal’s successor at this time. At the time, Deal […]
The 4 Insurance Truths That Customers Still Don’t Understand.
{November 14th, 2014} by Alice Holbrook
Between obtaining coverage for your home, your car and your family’s health, taking care of your insurance needs can be exhausting. If you’re like most people, you don’t take the time (or have the desire) to consider the ins and outs of all of your policies. “Consumers’ primary experience with insurance is being forced to […]
AIG Unveils A QLAC For The IRA Market
{November 14th, 2014} by Linda Koco
American General Life has started offering qualified longevity annuity contracts (QLACs). A QLAC is a deferred income annuity (DIA) that starts making income payments late in life. It is also known as a longevity annuity. The QLAC is a unique form of DIA that can be used with certain retirement plans. Created by new federal […]
AIG seen picking up the tab if Greenberg wins $25 billion bailout suit
{November 14th, 2014} by Andrew Zajac
(Bloomberg) — The U.S. government has grounds to demand that American International Group Inc. pay any significant damages should Maurice “Hank” Greenberg win his $25 billion claim that federal officials shortchanged investors in the 2008 bailout of the insurer. Greenberg and other investors who sued the government initially estimated damages at $25 billion. Later calculations […]
‘Self-directed’ investors lying to themselves
{November 14th, 2014} by Danielle Andrus
Many investors consider themselves self-directed, but research from Hearts & Wallets shows they aren’t actually going it alone. A report released Wednesday found that although more people said they manage their own investments now than two years ago, they’re taking a “general contractor” approach by using online and paid advice to help direct their thinking. […]
Are Americans Willing to Pay for Their Own Pension?
{November 14th, 2014} by Gary Baker
Each year, the Employee Benefits Research Institute (EBRI) publishes the results of its Retirement Confidence Survey. This annual survey tracks answers to some key questions over time, such as how confident Americans are about the prospects for Social Security and Medicare; how much money have they saved for their future and where are they putting […]
Maximizing Social Security with Specialized Annuities FIFO-FIAs and FIBO-DIAs
{November 14th, 2014} by Curtis Cloke
The number one concern that retirees have is running out of money, and it’s for a good reason. Many Americans nearing retirement have been unable to produce adequate savings. Company pensions are all but extinct. While many people understand the concept of saving and investing, few truly understand what is required to convert assets to […]
Jackson Unveils Two New Apps for iPad
{November 14th, 2014} by Business Wire
DENVER — Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®) has added several new tools to its suite of digital resources for advisors and consumers, including the new Jackson app, offering easy mobile access to information on Jackson’s products, and the Retirement Hub app, providing interactive educational content for investors on a wide variety of financial topics. […]
LIMRA: Most workers don’t shop around for life insurance
{November 14th, 2014} by LIMRA
Three-quarters of workplace life insurance customers belong to either Generations X or Y, according to LIMRA. “Younger, less experienced buyers typically do not have financial advisors, so they tend to look to different information sources compared to older customers,” said Ron Neyer, assistant research director, LIMRA Distribution Research. “Workplace life insurance buyers are also more […]
Earnings of Transamerica parents falls on old age mortality revisions
{November 14th, 2014} by Maud van Gaal
(Bloomberg) — Aegon NV fell the most in more than two years in Amsterdam trading after earnings missed analysts’ estimates on a revision to life expectancy models related mostly to people in the U.S. 85 and older. The stock slid 6.1 percent to 6.10 euros today, the biggest drop since June 1, 2012. The shares […]
Consumer Interest in Annuities Perks as Feds Discover Value
{November 14th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – Perhaps half of all pre-retiree and retiree U.S. households with assets of at least $100,000 are interested in converting assets into guaranteed lifetime income for retirement, according to a new study. The survey published by LIMRA’s Secured Retirement Institute comes as consumers, think tanks, the insurance industry and government appear to be focusing […]
Guaranteed lifetime income gets thumbs up, with reservations
{November 13th, 2014} by Marlene Y. Satter
With so many boomers concerned about whether they’ll outlive their assets in retirement, it’s probably no surprise that they’d be interested in converting assets into guaranteed lifetime income to see them through. And that’s exactly the word from the “Finding the Right Mix: LIMRA Retirement Attitudes and Preferences” study, from the LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute. […]
One of Iowa’s newest laws you need to know about
{November 13th, 2014} by KCCI
DES MOINES, Iowa —One of Iowa’s newest laws is designed to counteract a growing and under-reported crime in Iowa and across the nation. AARP officials said more elderly people are falling victim to the illegal use of their income or assets. Those charged with helping them manager their money are increasing stealing it. National studies […]
Annuity ‘Walls’ Now Have Doors
{November 13th, 2014} by Linda Koco
Could the walls between fixed annuities and variable annuities be vanishing? Well yes, and well no. During a recent conference call of state insurance commissioners, a few commenters alluded to how the walls between those types of annuities “don’t really exist.” This was in the context of a discussion about a third type of annuity, […]
How to get started in the insurance business: Opinion
{November 13th, 2014} by Michael F. Broderick,CFP, CLU, ChFC, CAP
Getting a great start in the insurance business is not the easiest task. I feel so fortunate that from a young age I watched my father run a very successful agency for a major insurance company. Even as a boy, it was obvious to me how his work with financial products and services had the […]
Women and retirement: 4 key findings
{November 13th, 2014} by Warren S. Hersch
Surveys have long noted greater degrees of financial confidence among men than women. This confidence gap closes, however, when women receive financial advice. So reports TIAA-CREF in its latest annual Advice Matters Survey. Click here to read…
Former Ohio Insurance Agent Sentenced for Stealing $52,000 from Clients
{November 12th, 2014} by Targeted News Service
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 12 — The Ohio Department of Insurance issued the following news release: Former Warren insurance agent Timothy J. Mulvey was sentenced today in the Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas to five years of community control, 17 months of suspended prison time, 60 days in the Warren Alternative Sentencing Program and to […]
Fallen heroes: Why marketing yourself honestly matters
{November 12th, 2014} by John Sullivan
We’ve all sat through them—the consumer panels that pop up at every industry trade show and conference. It’s important to listen to the clients we serve, but a panel of three strangers seems of little value to those who listen (actually listen) to their clients each and every day. It always struck me as more […]
Veterans Day: Difficult Transitions: BLOG
{November 12th, 2014} by B.D., WASHINGTON, DC
For around 550 American servicemen, today marks the start of something new: a return to civilian life. That is the number of veterans who leave the military every day, on average. As America draws down from a decade of remote warfare, the armed forces are expected to shed nearly 250,000 soldiers a year over the […]
13 occupations with worse aging problems than insurance agents
{November 12th, 2014} by Bill Coffin
It’s common knowledge in the insurance world that there is a serous demographic issue among producers. The average age of an agent or broker, according to industry statistics, is pushing 60 years old. A recent LIMRA survey pegged the average life & health producer at 56 years old, while a white paper from McKinsey & […]
MassMutual to Pay More Than $9 Million to Settle Revenue-Sharing Class-Action Suit
{November 12th, 2014} by Fran Matso Lysiak
BOSTON – Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. has agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit in which it will pay more than $9 million and change its business practices to resolve allegations over receiving allegedly improper revenue-sharing payments from mutual fund companies and related entities in its retirement plans. Filed in 2011 in the U.S. District […]
NAFA Response to Sean Williams, Motley Fool’s, The Five Worst Things you can do with your Money
{November 12th, 2014} by NAFA Response
NAFA Response to Sean Williams, Motley Fool’s, The Five Worst Things you can do with your Money November 3, 2014 Sean – thank you for your enthusiasm for investing and helping consumers. It will come as no surprise that NAFA, the National Association for Fixed Annuities, is extremely supportive when financial journalists relate accurate and […]
How to use an IUL as tax-free retirement savings strategy
{November 11th, 2014} by George Chambers
It’s a fact: Any client with a large IRA has a tax problem. If they don’t use it or leverage it, they will likely lose a significant portion to future taxes. A properly designed, Indexed Universal Life Insurance (IUL) policy offers tax advantages no other single product can provide. Click here to read…
Appeals Court OKs Life Policy Proceeds For Dad’s Undesignated Beneficiary
{November 11th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
A federal appeals court has upheld a lower court’s ruling awarding the proceeds of a life insurance policy to the son of a murdered man despite claims by the victim’s sister that she was entitled to the proceeds instead. Angela Ashford sued to recover the proceeds from the policy after she claimed that Lenord Jones’ […]
How Advisors Can Compete With The Online World
{November 10th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
The new crop of online and hybrid advisors crowding into the marketplace has traditional, full-service advisors asking the question: How can we compete? First, advisors should incorporate into their practices the best features of online advice. This is not unlike traditional retailers who integrate online retailing into their strategy, according to industry commentator, author and […]
3 steps to stopping the cycle of financial abuse
{November 10th, 2014} by Daniel Williams
Advisors are in a unique position when discussing finances and retirement with clients. They can not only help consumers prepare for retirement; they can also help their clients navigate and avoid financial abuse. According to one expert, “Financial abuse is not only limited to romantic relationships, it can also creep into the picture very subtlety […]
Keep An Eye On Global Regulation — If You Can: Blog
{November 10th, 2014} by Linda Koco
“Yeow!” That’s what one insurance company executive said to me upon leaving a recent workshop on international regulators’ growing influence in the U.S. insurance business. Insurance agents and advisors might also let out a “yeow,”once they read the new Deloitte report on international regulatory developments. In a nutshell, Deloitte researchers found that “decisions on regulatory […]
Hundreds of job losses loom as AIG closes offices
{November 9th, 2014} by The Associated Press
ALPHARETTA, Ga. —An insurance firm has announced that it will close its offices in the Atlanta suburb of Alpharetta. WSB Radio reports (http://bit.ly/1xnXId4) that the move by American International Group Inc. will mean the loss of about 400 jobs. Officials say no timetable for the closure has been announced, and it’s not known when the […]
AIG’s Leadership Transition To Hancock As CEO Official
{November 9th, 2014} by Michael Buck
Peter Hancock has taken overAmerican International Group as president and chief executive officer as its former leader,Robert Benmosche, heads into retirement. Hancock has also joined the company’s board of directors. Benmosche will be available to Hancock in an advisory role, according to the company. The transition was announced in June. Hancock most recently served as […]
N.Y. Blinks in Settlement over AIG Agent Practices
{November 9th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – American International Group’s settlement with New York regarding activities conducted by subsidiaries it owned but domiciled elsewhere was a victory for the company, according to an industry lawyer. The case has major implications because states, as in the battle over unclaimed property, are scrounging everywhere for revenues during a period of severe economic […]
AIG ex-CEO Willumstad testifies bailout was only option
{November 9th, 2014} by Andrew Zajac
(Bloomberg) — American International Group Inc.’s bailout by the U.S. in 2008 was seen by the company’s board as its only rescue option at the time, former Chief Executive Officer Robert Willumstad testified. The insurer’s board acted in “the best interest of all the stakeholders of AIG” when it approved an $85 billion loan requiring […]
AIG Life Earnings Soar In 3Q
{November 9th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – Strong sales of indexed earnings in its retirement segment drove American International Group’s third-quarter life segment pretax earnings to increase 18 percent over the same period last year. AIG’s life and retirement unit “achieved new records in our retirement income solutions business,” Kevin Hogan said. Hogan assumed control of AIG’s consumer – or […]
Rating agencies react to Genworth reserve announcement
{November 7th, 2014} by Allison Bell
The companies that grade insurers’ financial strength reacted quickly to news that Genworth Financial Inc. (NYSE:GNW) is increasing long-term care insurance (LTCI) claim reserves and reducing the state value of its life and LTCI businesses. Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services lowered the long-term counterparty credit and senior unsecured debt ratings it assigns the parent company […]
A.M. Best Comments on the Ratings of Genworth Financial, Inc. Following Its 3Q2014 Earnings Announcement
{November 7th, 2014} by Best's News Service
Oldwick – A.M. Best has commented that the financial strength rating of A (Excellent) and the issuer credit ratings (ICR) of “a” of Genworth Life Insurance Company, Genworth Life Insurance Company of New York and Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company, the key life/health subsidiaries of Genworth Financial, Inc. (Genworth) [NYSE: GNW], remain unchanged following […]
Genworth Financial Announces Third Quarter 2014 Earnings Results
{November 7th, 2014} by PR Newswire
RICHMOND, Va., Nov. 5, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Genworth Financial, Inc. (NYSE: GNW) today reported results for the period ended September 30, 2014. Third Quarter Financial and Operational Developments Completes Long Term Care Insurance (LTC) comprehensive claim reserve review, resulting in a reserve increase of $531 million and an after-tax earnings charge of $345 million Announces […]
Genworth CEO sees tough turnaround from $844 million loss
{November 7th, 2014} by IFAwebnews Staff
Genworth Financial faces a tougher path after posting a record net loss on costs tied to its long-term care insurance business, according to CEO Tom McInerney. “The turnaround in this business will be more difficult and prolonged,” McInerney said yesterday in a statement announcing third-quarter results, as reported by Bloomberg. “Despite this setback, we remain […]
Protective Posts 3Q 2014 Financial Results
{November 7th, 2014} by Proquest LLC
Protective Life Corp. has reported results for the third quarter of 2014. In its release onNovember 3, the Company noted net income for the third quarter of 2014 was $118.9 million or $1.46 per average diluted share, compared to $93.1 million or$1.15 per average diluted share in the third quarter of 2013. After-tax operating income […]
Former Advisor Gets 2 Years For Embezzlement
{November 7th, 2014} by Rob Wheary, The News-Item, Shamokin, Pa.
Nov. 07 –WILLIAMSPORT — A former insurance agent fromHerndon will begin a two-year prison sentence in January for embezzling more than $680,000 to allegedly pay off gambling debts. Derl Knarr, 55, was sentenced Wednesday in U.S. Middle District Court on a charge of insurance crimes affecting interstate commerce. U.S. District Judge Matthew W. Brann made […]
American Equity Reports Third Quarter 2014 Results
{November 7th, 2014} by Business Wire
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American Equity Investment Life Holding Company (NYSE: AEL), a leading underwriter of index and fixed rate annuities, today reported third quarter 2014 net income of $67.8 million, or $0.85 per diluted common share, compared to third quarter 2013 net income of $56.2 million, or $0.75 per diluted common share. Non-GAAP operating […]
Annuity Owners More Confident About Their Retirement
{November 7th, 2014} by N/A
WINDSOR, Conn., Nov. 6, 2014 — A recent LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute study found that nearly 9 out of 10 annuity owners are confident about their lifestyle in retirement. High confidence is most notable among households categorized as mass-affluent (those with investible assets of $100,000 to $499,000) and affluent (assets of $500,000 to $999,000). Those […]
Nationwide Sales, Profit Up In Recent Quarter
{November 7th, 2014} by Mark Williams, The Columbus Dispatch, Ohio
Nov. 06– A combination of quiet summer weather and higher sales of insurance and financial products helped drive Nationwide’s earnings higher in the third quarter. The insurer said today that its net operating income rose by 8 percent to $272 million for the three months that ended Sept. 30 compared with $251 million for the […]
Why ‘preferred’ FIAs can be bad for the industry: Opinion
{November 7th, 2014} by Roccy DeFrancesco
There is a disturbing trend in the industry right now. That trend is the creation of what I’ll call “preferred” fixed indexed annuities (FIAs). Preferred FIAs are different from what I call “proprietary” FIAs. Proprietary FIAs are products created for very specific IMOs (ones that are affiliated in some manner) to use. Proprietary products are […]
SEC Commissioner Pushes For Elder Fraud To Top 2015 Agenda
{November 7th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
Elder fraud, which costs senior citizens billions of dollars every year, needs to be put “back high” on the agenda as the nation experiences a population aging boom over the next 20 years, a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said. “Investigations of frauds committed against seniors need to remain a high priority […]
Nationwide Focusing on Next Steps in Brand Consolidation, Sees Third-Quarter Net Drop
{November 6th, 2014} by Michael Buck
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The key next steps of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.’s effort to bring its business under one brand are the rebranding of policies and the logistics of regional operations consolidation, said Chief Financial Officer Mark Thresher. The company in September announced plans to bring its several other brands under the Nationwide moniker as […]
A.M. Best Affirms Ratings of Guardian Life Insurance Company of America and its Subsidiaries
{November 6th, 2014} by Best's News Service
Oldwick – A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of A++ (Superior) and issuer credit ratings (ICR) of “aa+” of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian Life) (headquartered in New York, NY) and its core subsidiaries, The Guardian Insurance & Annuity Company, Inc. (Wilmington, DE) and Berkshire Life Insurance Company of […]
Cry Of Protest From MetLife Signals Right Direction For Regulators
{November 6th, 2014} by STEPHEN J. LUBBEN
$214 billion. As of the middle of this year, that was the value of MetLife’s bond portfolio, according to Bloomberg. Nevertheless, MetLife is fighting its designation as “systemically important” under the Dodd-Frank financial overhaul law, which subjects such institutions to additional oversight by the Federal Reserve and tougher capital requirements. Earlier this week, senior executives […]
Top 3 fraudulent schemes targeting insurers [infographic]
{November 6th, 2014} by Warren S. Hersch
When it comes to fraud, what is the cost of complacency? Research conducted by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) indicates that the longer a fraud lasts before it is detected, the more the victim organization stands to lose. The infographic on the next page illustrates the relationship between anti-fraud controls and the duration […]
You want to match clients with the right annuity? : Opinion
{November 6th, 2014} by Ed McCarthy, CFP
Retirement Advisor: How do you start the process of determining if you should use an annuity with a client? Michael Kelly: There are two factors that determine it. Number one is the classification of the money: Is it qualified or non-qualified? That’s a huge issue. Click here to read…
Consumers Beware: The Truth About Life Insurance, Annuities And College Financial Aid
{November 5th, 2014} by Troy Onink
There are so-called college advisors lurking at college aid nights at high schools across the country who are really just insurance agents aiming to sell unsuspecting parents life insurance and annuity products on the claim that it will get the parents’ child more aid for college. Some of their claims and practices border on outright […]
Company Materials Must Focus On Consumer Perception
{November 5th, 2014} by Linda Koco
There are so-called college advisors lurking at college aid nights at high schools across the country who are really just insurance agents aiming to sell unsuspecting parents life insurance and annuity products on the claim that it will get the parents’ child more aid for college. Some of their claims and practices border on outright […]
Jones Wins Second Term as California Insurance Commissioner
{November 5th, 2014} by Thomas Harman
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California Insurance Commissioner David Jones has been re-elected for a second term, defeating Republican challenger Sen. Ted Gaines. Jones won 56.3% of the vote in defeating Gaines, a member of the state Senate who serves as vice chairman of the state Senate Standing Committee on Insurance. Jones and Gaines advanced to the […]
Republican Selzer Wins Kansas Insurance Commissioner Race
{November 5th, 2014} by Thomas Harman
TOPEKA, Kan. – Republican Ken Selzer will be the new Kansas insurance commissioner after scoring a victory over Democrat Dennis Anderson in the Nov. 4 race, winning about 62% of the vote. Selzer, an executive managing director at Aon Benfield, will succeed retiring Insurance Commissioner Sandy Praeger, who is leaving the office after three terms. […]
Feds Allow Annuities into Target Date Mutual Funds
{November 5th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
WASHINGTON – Federal agencies are allowing target date mutual funds (TDFs) to include deferred income annuities as qualified default investment alternatives in employer-sponsored retirement plans. The agencies’ guidance clears legal hurdles that had discouraged some employers from offering lifetime income options for older workers nearing retirement, according to the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) […]
Now that annuities are OK in retirement plans, what strategy is best?
{November 5th, 2014} by Darla Mercado
Now that the Treasury Department has blessed having deferred-income annuities in 401(k)s, the next issue to tackle is how best to allocate these annuities within the retirement plan. Deferred-income annuities, with guaranteed income in the later years of a buyer’s life in exchange for a payment in the present, have been an issue for Treasury […]
Sheryl J. Moore’s NAIC Comment on IUL Illustrated Rates
{November 5th, 2014} by Sheryl J. Moore
September 28, 2014 National Association of Insurance Commissioners Mike Boerner, Chair of Life Actuarial Task Force Texas Department of Insurance 333 Guadalupe Austin, TX 78701 Moore Market Intelligence Sheryl J. Moore 5148 E. University Avenue Pleasant Hill, IA 50327 RE: Actuarial Guideline on Illustrations for Indexed Life Insurance Policies […]
Expert Interview with Sheryl Moore About Competitive Intelligence and Retirement for NewRetirement.com
{November 5th, 2014} by Media Shower
Sheryl Moore is the creator, founder, president and CEO of Wink, Inc. After seeing a hole in the insurance industry, Sheryl began developing an idea that turned into the successful company, Wink. Not only did she create a thriving business, but she has also put an energetic, expert team together to offer the best in the […]
Phoenix Cos. Adds Term Life Aimed At Middle Market
{November 5th, 2014} by Cyril Tuohy
Seeking to penetrate further into the middle market, The Phoenix Companies has announced the addition of a new term life product with living benefit riders and a Web-based distribution agreement to complement its distribution through independent marketing organizations. The new term life coverage is branded as Phoenix Safe Harbor Term Life and Phoenix Safe Harbor […]
Staying current on new products is your responsibility
{November 5th, 2014} by Brian Anderson
“Make sure you stay educated and don’t ever think you get to that plateau where you know it all, because when you get there, it’s going to change.” That’s a direct quote from Nevada Commissioner of Insurance Scott J. Kipper, delivered as a key takeaway for the audience at a roundtable session titled “Navigating the […]
Voya Financial Announces Third Quarter 2014 Results
{November 5th, 2014} by Voya
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014 NEW YORK, Nov. 5, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Voya Financial, Inc. (NYSE: VOYA) today reported financial results for the third quarter 2014: After-tax operating earnings1,2 of $191 million, or $0.75 per diluted share, compared with $283 million, or $1.08 per diluted share in the third quarter of 20133. The following items primarily […]
Symetra Adds Enhanced Death Benefit Rider to Fixed Indexed Annuity Suite
{November 4th, 2014} by Symetra Life Insurance Company
BELLEVUE, Wash. — Symetra Life Insurance Company today announced the introduction of an enhanced death benefit rider to its suite of fixed indexed annuity (FIA) products. The optional feature is available on select Symetra fixed indexed annuities, including Symetra Edge Pro® Fixed Indexed Annuity, and is designed to provide beneficiaries with a potentially larger death […]
Industry divided over IUL illustrations
{November 4th, 2014} by Arthur D. Postal
The life insurance industry continues to be deeply divided over the content of illustrations agents use in selling indexed universal life insurance (IUL). The differences are outlined in comments being submitted to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), which has proposed actuarial guidelines governing the IUL illustrations. The comment period closes Thursday, but two […]
AIG Reports Slight Rise in Third-Quarter Net Income
{November 4th, 2014} by Michael Buck
NEW YORK – American International Group Inc. saw its third-quarter net income rise 1% to $2.2 billion as its property/casualty, and life and retirement units posted higher pretax income, according to a statement. “The solid third-quarter results were driven by consistent performance across our businesses,” AIG President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Hancock, said in […]
16 reasons why accountants prefer indexed universal life to mutual funds
{November 4th, 2014} by Allen Koreis
It’s not just about the death benefit. Have you heard about the remarkable savings vehicle that offers the appeal of market-linked gains without the worry of market-based losses? Your accountant certainly has, and he or she is beginning to weigh in on their many benefits, guarantees and tax advantages. Click here to read…
7 ways to attract the perfect life insurance prospects every month
{November 4th, 2014} by Lew Nason
Attracting 50 people to you each and every month doesn’t have to be hard or frustrating, if you focus on getting your unique message out to the right people — the people with whom you have the best chance of setting an appointment and have the best chance of closing a sale. The most common […]
Lincoln Financial Group Releases Third Quarter 2014 Financial Results
{November 4th, 2014} by Proquest LLC
Financial Group reported net income for the third quarter of 2014 of $439 million, or $1.65 per diluted share available to common stockholders, compared to net income in the third quarter of 2013 of $337 million, or $1.23 per diluted share available to common stockholders. According to its release on October 29, the Company noted […]
Insurance Groups Watching Talks on Capital Standards, Groupwide Supervision, Market Conduct at NAIC Fall Meeting
{November 4th, 2014} by Thomas Harman
WASHINGTON – Efforts to give states groupwide supervision authority over large international insurance groups, discussions toward a U.S. response to the call for an international capital standard, and the work of a new market conduct accreditation panel are will be on the radar of those attending the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Fall National Meeting. […]
10 ways that technology will change the insurance business in 2015
{November 4th, 2014} by Melissa Hillebrand
The top tech trends for 2015 cover three themes: the merging of the real and virtual worlds, the advent of intelligence everywhere and the technological impact of the digital business shift, said analysts at the Gartner Symposium/ITxpo, held in October in Orlando. Gartner defines a strategic tech trend as one with the potential for significant […]
Forethought stands out in annuity market
{November 4th, 2014} by LiveFyre
Forethought Life Insurance Co., a subsidiary of Global Atlantic Financial Group Limited, is experiencing significant growth in the annuity space, gaining a stronger foothold in an industry serving the growing retiree demographic. When comparing Forethought’s second quarter annuity results to peer results reported by the Life Insurance and Market Research Association, Forethought is one of […]
AIG to Pay New York Regulator $35 Million Penalty
{November 3rd, 2014} by Michael Buck
NEW YORK – American International Group Inc. will pay a $35 million penalty to the New York Department of Financial Services for insurance law violations related to two former subsidiaries, the regulator said in a statement. The fine is related to two of AIG’s former subsidiaries, American Life Insurance Co. and Delaware American Life Insurance […]
6 Critical Data Elements to Help Prevent Lawsuits
{November 3rd, 2014} by John Sullivan
My father was an agent and advisor for 60 years and never had an E&O claim. My sister took over his business and has never had one either, but it’s not for a lack of trying. Lest you think it sibling snark, let me explain: Click here to read…
MetLife Posts Higher Profit In Third Quarter
{November 3rd, 2014} by Dean Roberts, The Charlotte Observer
Oct. 29– MetLife said Wednesday its third-quarter profit more than doubled from the same period last year as it posted gains from derivatives it uses to hedge risks. The largest life insurer in the U.S. reported profit of $2.1 billion, or $1.81 a share. That exceeded the $1.38 consensus expectation of Wall Street analysts. A […]
I’m bearish on annuities and so should you! Opinion
{November 3rd, 2014} by Michael Markey
Ok, yes I might have stolen my title from the investment guru Ken Fisher (If I only knew how to use hashtags, then I could make this so much cooler). I’m sure you’ve seen the Forbes’ columnist’s advertisement stating “I hate annuities, and so should you!” Interestingly enough, as of 6/30/2014 Fisher Investments was the […]
Single? Estate Planning Is Crucial
{November 1st, 2014} by Erin E. Arvedlund, The Philadelphia Inquirer
Nov. 02–Single parents, listen up: A few pen strokes now can save you thousands of dollars later and leave your children more financially secure, too. Estate and retirement planning is crucially important for single parents, both men and women. Many think their assets and retirement income will automatically pass directly to their children. Not so. […]
