Friday, September 28, 2007
Lincoln Financial Group Launches First Variable Product in Its Unified Product Portfolio
As baby boomers face retirement, they not only are focused on how to accumulate assets for enjoyment in retirement, but how to protect a lifetime of hard work to ensure a financial future for their loved ones. Lincoln Financial Group recently announced the launch of a variable universal life product, which is the first of three variable products to be introduced as a part of its comprehensive Unified Product Portfolio (UPP). Lincoln VULONE 2007 is a hybrid product that combines the no-lapse benefits of a universal life policy with the market potential of a variable policy. Issued by The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, Lincoln VULONE 2007 is designed to meet evolving client needs by providing death benefit protection and investment flexibility.
Lincoln Financial Group Launches First Variable Product in Its Unified Product Portfolio
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Lincoln Financial Group Launches First Variable Product in Its Unified Product Portfolio
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:18 PM 
LIMRA and LOMA Boards Approve Combination
Two major financial services organizations could unite by Jan. 1, 2008.
The boards of LIMRA International, Windsor, CT., and LOMA, Atlanta, have agreed to proceed with efforts to form LL Global Inc., Windsor, CT., an umbrella organization that would provide a “unified management structure” for both groups.
LIMRA and LOMA Boards Approve Combination
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
The boards of LIMRA International, Windsor, CT., and LOMA, Atlanta, have agreed to proceed with efforts to form LL Global Inc., Windsor, CT., an umbrella organization that would provide a “unified management structure” for both groups.
LIMRA and LOMA Boards Approve Combination
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:17 PM
Vanguard to Broaden Retirement Income Solutions with Three New Managed Payout Funds
Millions of Americans have no life insurance or are seriously underinsured, and that could translate to big financial problems for their loved ones if they die unexpectedly.
"Nobody wants to think about dying," said David Woods, president of the LIFE Foundation in Arlington, Va. "People know they need life insurance, but they figure they'll get to getting it someday - just not today. It's something they put off."
Vanguard to Broaden Retirement Income Solutions with Three New Managed Payout Funds
Source: Business Wire
"Nobody wants to think about dying," said David Woods, president of the LIFE Foundation in Arlington, Va. "People know they need life insurance, but they figure they'll get to getting it someday - just not today. It's something they put off."
Vanguard to Broaden Retirement Income Solutions with Three New Managed Payout Funds
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:15 PM
Allianz Life Has Highest Percentage Increase in Admitted Assets
Through the first half of 2007, Allianz Life Insurance of North America experienced the highest percentage increase in admitted assets among the top 25 U.S. life groups, according to new data released by A.M. Best Co.
Allianz, which ranked 20th, saw a 12.8% increase over the first six months of last year, reaching more than $71.8 billion in admitted assets through the first sixth months of 2007.
Allianz Life Has Highest Percentage Increase in Admitted Assets
Source: Insurance News Net
Allianz, which ranked 20th, saw a 12.8% increase over the first six months of last year, reaching more than $71.8 billion in admitted assets through the first sixth months of 2007.
Allianz Life Has Highest Percentage Increase in Admitted Assets
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:11 PM
Financial Planners Express Need for Tools and Services that Facilitate Retirement Income Discussions with Clients
The majority of financial planners want products and services that will facilitate discussions regarding retirement income planning with their clients, according to a new Financial Planning Association® (FPA®) study on financial planners’ attitudes and perceptions about retirement income planning opportunities.
Financial Planners Express Need for Tools and Services that Facilitate Retirement Income Discussions with Clients
Source: Insurance News Net
Financial Planners Express Need for Tools and Services that Facilitate Retirement Income Discussions with Clients
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:09 PM
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Life Insurance to Remain a Great Buy into 2008, I.I.I. Forecast Finds
With life insurance rates going down and life expectancy going up, now is the ideal time to reevaluate your life insurance needs, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).
Life Insurance to Remain a Great Buy into 2008, I.I.I. Forecast Finds
Source: Insurance News Net
Life Insurance to Remain a Great Buy into 2008, I.I.I. Forecast Finds
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:04 AM
New Phoenix Unit May Try Life Settlement
A large life insurer may get into the secondary market for in-force life insurance policies.
Phoenix Companies Inc., Hartford, says it is naming John Hillman and Frank Gencarelli to run a new life solutions unit that will explore the “emerging life settlements market” and other opportunities to do more business with wealthy customers, the company says.
New Phoenix Unit May Try Life Settlement
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Phoenix Companies Inc., Hartford, says it is naming John Hillman and Frank Gencarelli to run a new life solutions unit that will explore the “emerging life settlements market” and other opportunities to do more business with wealthy customers, the company says.
New Phoenix Unit May Try Life Settlement
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:00 AM
Prudential Launches Enhanced Online Solutions Aimed at Streamlining Workflow and Improving Service for Benefit Plan Sponsors
Prudential Financial, Inc.’s Group Insurance business announced today the successful implementation of its newest series of user-friendly technological improvements. The business’ life and disability insurance claims applications now have enhanced navigation to help clients execute functions more efficiently, integrated report scheduling to simplify the report creation process, and increased flexibility and choice allowing clients to select from a robust menu of report formats and delivery options.
Prudential Launches Enhanced Online Solutions Aimed at Streamlining Workflow and Improving Service for Benefit Plan Sponsors
Source: Business Wire
Prudential Launches Enhanced Online Solutions Aimed at Streamlining Workflow and Improving Service for Benefit Plan Sponsors
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 9:59 AM
MassMutual Goes Live on Integrated Technology Platform from SAP
As continuing evidence that large insurance companies are leveraging industry-specific solutions from the world's leading business software company, SAP AG today announced that Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) has implemented SAP(R) for Insurance solutions, which include the SAP(R) Incentive and Commission Management for Insurance application. MassMutual aims to consolidate its compensation workflows on a unified business process platform for accurately and efficiently distributing compensation payments to its sales channels.
MassMutual Goes Live on Integrated Technology Platform from SAP
Source: CNN/Money
MassMutual Goes Live on Integrated Technology Platform from SAP
Source: CNN/Money
Permalink posted by armandn @ 9:49 AM
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
U.S. Financial Services Industry Must Retool for Retirement Boom
The financial services industry in the U.S. is not keeping up with the changing needs of the 76 million people approaching retirement. According to a report by financial industry consultants Oliver Wyman, providers need to shift their focus from helping Baby Boomers accumulate assets to enabling them to draw down assets and generate income from their assets.
U.S. Financial Services Industry Must Retool for Retirement Boom
Source: Insurance News Net
U.S. Financial Services Industry Must Retool for Retirement Boom
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:20 AM
ING Fixed Annuities Adds Index-Linked Crediting Method to Selected FIA Products
ING Fixed Annuities has added a monthly cap index strategy to its index-linked interest crediting methods, according to Chad Tope, senior vice president, ING Fixed Annuities Distribution. Introduction of the new monthly cap index strategy means that clients will now have a choice of four distinct index-linked crediting options and a fixed interest strategy within selected ING fixed index annuities. Fixed annuity products are offered by ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company .just not today. It's something they put off."
ING Fixed Annuities Adds Index-Linked Crediting Method to Selected FIA Products
Source: CNN/Money
ING Fixed Annuities Adds Index-Linked Crediting Method to Selected FIA Products
Source: CNN/Money
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:18 AM
Term Life Premiums May Drop A Bit
Premiums for individual term life insurance are expected to drop 1 percent next year, a smaller decline than the 4 percent annual average decline since 2000, the Insurance Information Institute said this week.
"A lot of the margin for cutting back has been squeezed out" already, and the higher long-term interest rates that were forecast a year ago didn't materialize, said Steven Weisbart, the institute's vice president and chief economist. Interest rates affect insurers' investment income.
Term Life Premiums May Drop A Bit
Source: Hartford Courant
"A lot of the margin for cutting back has been squeezed out" already, and the higher long-term interest rates that were forecast a year ago didn't materialize, said Steven Weisbart, the institute's vice president and chief economist. Interest rates affect insurers' investment income.
Term Life Premiums May Drop A Bit
Source: Hartford Courant
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:17 AM
Metlife Announces New $1 Billion Stock Repurchase Program
MetLife, Inc. announced that its board of directors has authorized an additional $1 billion common stock repurchase program. This program will begin after the completion of an earlier $1 billion repurchase program that was announced on February 28, 2007, of which approximately $240 million currently remains.
Metlife Announces New $1 Billion Stock Repurchase Program
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Metlife Announces New $1 Billion Stock Repurchase Program
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:16 AM
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Jackson Enhances Index Annuity Product Menu with Launch of Jackson AscenderPlus Select
Jackson National Life Insurance Company® has launched Jackson AscenderPlus Select, a new fixed index annuity (FIA) that provides advisors with the flexibility to build a customized retirement product that can meet the individual financial needs of their clients. In addition to a guaranteed minimum interest rate and a guaranteed minimum death benefit, Jackson AscenderPlus Select gives investors the opportunity to earn additional interest that is linked to one of two market indexes – the new proprietary benchmark Multi-Strategy Index or the S&P 500® Index – or a combination of both indexes.
Jackson Enhances Index Annuity Product Menu with Launch of Jackson AscenderPlus Select
Source: Business Wire
Jackson Enhances Index Annuity Product Menu with Launch of Jackson AscenderPlus Select
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:21 PM
New Sun Life Executive Universal Life and Sun Executive Variable Universal Life Products Offer Unique Value in Executive Benefit Market
The U.S. division of Sun Life Financial has launched two new life insurance products designed for small and mid-size business owners to fund non-qualified executive benefit plans. These products offer competitive cash value accumulation with flexible underwriting solutions and can be structured to provide compelling incentives for key employees.
New Sun Life Executive Universal Life and Sun Executive Variable Universal Life Products Offer Unique Value in Executive Benefit Market
Source: Yahoo! Finance
New Sun Life Executive Universal Life and Sun Executive Variable Universal Life Products Offer Unique Value in Executive Benefit Market
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:20 PM
The Ups and Downs of Annuities
When it comes to planning for retirement, more people are considering annuities as a viable option, though they’re typically seen as far riskier than traditional saving methods.
The Ups and Downs of Annuities
Source: Springfield (MO) Business Journal
The Ups and Downs of Annuities
Source: Springfield (MO) Business Journal
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:18 PM
2007 U.S. Worksite Sales Record Double-Digit Growth: LIMRA
Led by surging voluntary health offerings, second quarter 2007 worksite sales increased by 12 percent. This marks the fourth consecutive quarter of double-digit growth, according to the latest Worksite survey by LIMRA International.
“Health offerings are clearly driving worksite’s resurgence. Voluntary life sales are improving, but show no signs of making a similar dramatic recovery,” said Ron Neyer, LIMRA worksite research Senior Analyst and author of the U.S. Worksite Sales Second Quarter Review.
2007 U.S. Worksite Sales Record Double-Digit Growth: LIMRA
Source: Insurance News Net
“Health offerings are clearly driving worksite’s resurgence. Voluntary life sales are improving, but show no signs of making a similar dramatic recovery,” said Ron Neyer, LIMRA worksite research Senior Analyst and author of the U.S. Worksite Sales Second Quarter Review.
2007 U.S. Worksite Sales Record Double-Digit Growth: LIMRA
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:17 PM
Monday, September 24, 2007
NAVA Reports Second Quarter Variable Annuity Industry Data
NAVA, the Association for Insured Retirement Solutions, today announced second quarter results for the variable annuity industry. The combined net assets of U.S. variable annuities increased 4.6% to $1.5 trillion at the end of the second quarter, as compared with the end of the first quarter of 2007. Net assets increased by 15.3% relative to the second quarter one year ago.
NAVA Reports Second Quarter Variable Annuity Industry Data
Source: Business Wire
NAVA Reports Second Quarter Variable Annuity Industry Data
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:26 AM
Lack of Insurance Can Add to Survivors' Heartache
Millions of Americans have no life insurance or are seriously underinsured, and that could translate to big financial problems for their loved ones if they die unexpectedly.
"Nobody wants to think about dying," said David Woods, president of the LIFE Foundation in Arlington, Va. "People know they need life insurance, but they figure they'll get to getting it someday - just not today. It's something they put off."
Lack of Insurance Can Add to Survivors' Heartache
Source: Insurance News Net
"Nobody wants to think about dying," said David Woods, president of the LIFE Foundation in Arlington, Va. "People know they need life insurance, but they figure they'll get to getting it someday - just not today. It's something they put off."
Lack of Insurance Can Add to Survivors' Heartache
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:25 AM
More Than They Will Ever Need: Estate Maximizing Strategy with Built-In Funding
It is not unusual today to find clients at or near retirement who discover that they have overfunded their lifetime retirement income needs. They have accumulated more assets or sources of income than they will ever need—even taking into account inflationary pressures and the possibility of longer life spans--through employee benefit plans, inheritances, or just plain thriftiness.
More Than They Will Ever Need: Estate Maximizing Strategy with Built-In Funding
Source: Life Insurance Selling
More Than They Will Ever Need: Estate Maximizing Strategy with Built-In Funding
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:23 AM
MassMutual Captures No. 1 Ranking in 2007 Information Week 500 "Information Security/Privacy" Category
MassMutual Financial Group has been awarded the No. 1 ranking in this year's InformationWeek 500 "Information Security/Privacy" category for its proprietary information security management system. MassMutual's award is one of only five "Leaders in Innovation" category awards identified by InformationWeek, namely, Productivity, Information Security, Supply Chain Innovation, Emerging Technology and Customer Intimacy. MassMutual also earned an overall ranking of No. 66 on the InformationWeek 500.
MassMutual Captures No. 1 Ranking in 2007 Information Week 500 "Information Security/Privacy" Category
Source: PR Newswire
MassMutual Captures No. 1 Ranking in 2007 Information Week 500 "Information Security/Privacy" Category
Source: PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:16 AM
Friday, September 21, 2007
Nation's Leading Mutual Life Insurance Companies Builds Awareness for Whole Life Insurance
The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian), Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), New York Life Insurance Company (New York Life) and The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (Northwestern Mutual) are hosting an industry media event to discuss the living benefits of whole life insurance.
The nonprofit Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE) will moderate the event in support of Life Insurance Awareness Month, a national campaign to raise public awareness of the importance of life insurance. The theme of the event, Uncommon Knowledge of Whole Life Insurance, seeks to dispel some of the common myths about whole life and provide the public with vital information about the full value of whole life insurance as part of a sound financial plan from experts at the top mutual insurers in the country.
Nation's Leading Mutual Life Insurance Companies Builds Awareness for Whole Life Insurance
Source: PR Newswire
The nonprofit Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE) will moderate the event in support of Life Insurance Awareness Month, a national campaign to raise public awareness of the importance of life insurance. The theme of the event, Uncommon Knowledge of Whole Life Insurance, seeks to dispel some of the common myths about whole life and provide the public with vital information about the full value of whole life insurance as part of a sound financial plan from experts at the top mutual insurers in the country.
Nation's Leading Mutual Life Insurance Companies Builds Awareness for Whole Life Insurance
Source: PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:56 PM
Actuaries: Individuals Social Security Accounts Should Only be Considered as a Supplement
A new issue brief of the American Academy of Actuaries Social Insurance Committee finds that a defined benefit structure is preferable to a defined contribution structure for providing basic benefits under Social Security. However, the committee added that a defined contribution approach, such as individual accounts, could be part of Social Security reform as a supplement to benefits provided under the current defined benefit structure.
Actuaries: Individuals Social Security Accounts Should Only be Considered as a Supplement
Source: PR Newswire
Actuaries: Individuals Social Security Accounts Should Only be Considered as a Supplement
Source: PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:54 PM
Lawmakers Vow to Look Behind String of Rate Increases Granted to Conseco
Four state lawmakers from Spokane have intervened on behalf of seniors who say they are being priced out of their long-term care policies.
State Sen. Chris Marr, Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and Reps. Timm Ormsby and Don Barlow, all D-Spokane, attended a recent meeting with the state insurance commissioner, deputy insurance commissioner and insurance agents representing seniors to address concerns that the state hasn’t used rigid enough standards for approving 14 rate increases granted to Conseco Senior Health Insurance Inc., during the past six years.
Long-Term Care Costs Scrutinized: Lawmakers Vow to Look Behind String of Rate Increases Granted to Conseco
Source: Insurance News Net
State Sen. Chris Marr, Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and Reps. Timm Ormsby and Don Barlow, all D-Spokane, attended a recent meeting with the state insurance commissioner, deputy insurance commissioner and insurance agents representing seniors to address concerns that the state hasn’t used rigid enough standards for approving 14 rate increases granted to Conseco Senior Health Insurance Inc., during the past six years.
Long-Term Care Costs Scrutinized: Lawmakers Vow to Look Behind String of Rate Increases Granted to Conseco
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:54 PM
Is Permanent Individual Life Insurance Passe?
The question in the headline is one that is voiced more and more.
Certainly term insurance has become a favorite of consumers—it is truly being sold now as a commodity. Consumers view it that way, and if they need some, they don’t hesitate to go to the Internet to find it, just as they do for other consumer products.
Is Permanent Individual Life Insurance Passe?
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Certainly term insurance has become a favorite of consumers—it is truly being sold now as a commodity. Consumers view it that way, and if they need some, they don’t hesitate to go to the Internet to find it, just as they do for other consumer products.
Is Permanent Individual Life Insurance Passe?
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 12:51 PM
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Consumers Should Consider Life Insurance to Provide Financial Security for Loved Ones
Millions of Americans have no life insurance or are seriously underinsured and that could translate to big financial problems for their loved ones if they die unexpectedly.
"Nobody wants to think about dying," said David F. Woods, president of the LIFE Foundation in Arlington, Va. "People know they need life insurance, but they figure they'll get to getting it someday - just not today. It's something they put off."
Consumers Should Consider Life Insurance to Provide Financial Security for Loved Ones
Source: Insurance News Net
"Nobody wants to think about dying," said David F. Woods, president of the LIFE Foundation in Arlington, Va. "People know they need life insurance, but they figure they'll get to getting it someday - just not today. It's something they put off."
Consumers Should Consider Life Insurance to Provide Financial Security for Loved Ones
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:58 AM
The National Association for Fixed Annuities Established Market Conduct Committee and Releases Suitability of Fixed Annuities Paper
NAFA's newly formed Market Conduct Committee releases its Suitability of Fixed Annuities position paper to demonstrate the benefits of fixed annuities for individuals with safe money needs, including some senior citizens. The Market Conduct Committee purpose is to foster an understanding and adherence to best market conduct and business practices in the distribution, recruiting, marketing, and sales of fixed annuities by insurance companies, marketing organizations and producers.
The National Association for Fixed Annuities Established Market Conduct Committee and Releases Suitability of Fixed Annuities Paper
Source: Prime Newswire
The National Association for Fixed Annuities Established Market Conduct Committee and Releases Suitability of Fixed Annuities Paper
Source: Prime Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:56 AM
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
The Hartford Focusing On Cross-Sales
The Hartford, looking to boost sales, is launching a major effort to get independent agents who sell its property-casualty insurance to distribute its life and disability coverage and retirement plans, too.
The cross-selling initiative announced Tuesday is aimed at owners of small to medium-size businesses of up to 500 employees. The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. is banking on employers' desire - and trust - to buy financial products from one source.
The Hartford Focusing On Cross-Sales
Source: Hartford Courant
The cross-selling initiative announced Tuesday is aimed at owners of small to medium-size businesses of up to 500 employees. The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. is banking on employers' desire - and trust - to buy financial products from one source.
The Hartford Focusing On Cross-Sales
Source: Hartford Courant
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:34 AM
Using VUL for Retirement Planning and Other Needs
Prior to the stock market decline of 2001, variable universal life insurance (VUL) was a popular tool for creating plans with supplemental income. Whether to enhance retirement savings or help pay for future expenses, such as college or weddings, VUL was popular because of its tax advantages and flexibility. The market slide, however, put VUL in an unfavorable light with clients who wanted more guarantees.
Using VUL for Retirement Planning and Other Needs
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Using VUL for Retirement Planning and Other Needs
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:33 AM
Sales of Annuities Lead to Growth at Aviva
The company started out in the life insurance business but diversified into selling annuities, which now accounts for the bulk of the business in Topeka.
Sales of annuities lead to growth at Aviva
Source: Topeka Capital-Journal
Sales of annuities lead to growth at Aviva
Source: Topeka Capital-Journal
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:32 AM
Nationwide Financial Offers Straight Talk About the Pensions Protection Act
The Pension Protection Act of 2006 (PPA) opened up a world of new opportunities for retirement plans. But, the more than 900 pages of industry jargon and complex provisions, may have some investment professionals confused about how to turn the opportunities of the PPA into reality for their clients. Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. is taking out the guesswork and offering investment professionals and plan sponsors "Straight Talk" about the PPA. The new campaign highlights features of the PPA in plain English and provides tools to help investment professionals build and retain business.
Nationwide Financial Offers Straight Talk About the Pensions Protection Act
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Nationwide Financial Offers Straight Talk About the Pensions Protection Act
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:32 AM
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
New Survey Finds Most Americans Are Not Taking an Important Step to Protect Their Financial Assets
While many people are working hard to build home equity, retirement, college and personal savings, a recent survey revealed that a vast majority of them have not taken a very simple and inexpensive step to protect those assets from loss in a lawsuit.
New Survey Finds Most Americans Are Not Taking an Important Step to Protect Their Financial Assets
Source: Insurance News Net
New Survey Finds Most Americans Are Not Taking an Important Step to Protect Their Financial Assets
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:03 AM
Annuity Suitability Presents Challenges
A new research report from TowerGroup Inc. says insurers should go above and beyond current regulatory requirements when dealing with the issue of annuity suitability.
The report by Senior Analyst Rachel Alt-Simmons says the widespread adoption of the “model law”, which holds insurance companies–not just the selling agents or broker-dealers–accountable for ensuring the appropriateness of their annuity products, presents new liabilities and challenges for insurers. “The adoption of this regulation places insurance companies under extreme pressure to find ways to ensure the products they sell are suited to the investors,” the report says.
Annuity Suitability Presents Challenges
Source: Insurance Networking News
The report by Senior Analyst Rachel Alt-Simmons says the widespread adoption of the “model law”, which holds insurance companies–not just the selling agents or broker-dealers–accountable for ensuring the appropriateness of their annuity products, presents new liabilities and challenges for insurers. “The adoption of this regulation places insurance companies under extreme pressure to find ways to ensure the products they sell are suited to the investors,” the report says.
Annuity Suitability Presents Challenges
Source: Insurance Networking News
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:02 AM
Seniors Benefit from Living Benefits in a Variable Annuity
In the senior marketplace, building trust must be the number one goal. To serve seniors well, top producers must first earn their trust. A second goal is to understand the common fears and concerns of most seniors. When I probe gently and listen carefully during my fact-finding interviews, I’m able to discover the underlying concerns that seniors say bother them the most:
1. Will our savings and investments give us a lasting income if we live a long time?
2. How will we pay for health care costs for long-term care if we break down physically or mentally and must go into a nursing home?
3. What happens when one of us dies?
Seniors Benefit from Living Benefits in a Variable Annuity
Source: Life Insurance Selling
1. Will our savings and investments give us a lasting income if we live a long time?
2. How will we pay for health care costs for long-term care if we break down physically or mentally and must go into a nursing home?
3. What happens when one of us dies?
Seniors Benefit from Living Benefits in a Variable Annuity
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:01 AM
Employers Struggle to Deliver Competitive Benefits Programs Consistent with Employees' Increasing Reliance on Workplace Services
As companies grapple with competing objectives—managing benefits costs while attracting and retaining skilled talent—the link between employee benefits strategies and business and financial goals is expected to increase by 2012, according to “Employee Benefits: 2007 & Beyond,” a new report released today by Prudential Financial, Inc. that explores current and future employee needs and how employers plan to respond to those needs. The report highlights employers’ need to improve the perceived value of the benefits programs and services they provide as their employees become increasingly demanding.
Employers Struggle to Deliver Competitive Benefits Programs Consistent with Employees'Increasing Reliance on Workplace Services
Source: Business Wire
Employers Struggle to Deliver Competitive Benefits Programs Consistent with Employees'Increasing Reliance on Workplace Services
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 9:59 AM
Monday, September 17, 2007
Immediate Fixed Annuities and Whole Life Insurance Get Sales Boost from Market Turbulence
According to former Federal Reserve chief Alan Greenspan the main market performance driver is really human nature. And Human nature, which is prone to euphoria and fear, is hard to predict in terms of economic models he said. Euphoria causes market upswings while fear causes economic downturns.
Immediate Fixed Annuities and Whole Life Insurance Get Sales Boost from Market Turbulence
Source: Insurance News Net
Immediate Fixed Annuities and Whole Life Insurance Get Sales Boost from Market Turbulence
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:00 AM
Life Reinsurer Gears Up for Major Deals
A young life reinsurer says it is building the infrastructure it needs to handle large transactions.
Wilton Re Holdings Ltd., Hamilton, Bermuda, the parent of Wilton Re, Wilton, Conn., has agreed to pay Computer Sciences Corp., El Segundo, Calif., $20 million over 20 years to have CSC administer the life insurance policies Wilton Re has acquired.
Life Reinsurer Gears Up for Major Deals
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Wilton Re Holdings Ltd., Hamilton, Bermuda, the parent of Wilton Re, Wilton, Conn., has agreed to pay Computer Sciences Corp., El Segundo, Calif., $20 million over 20 years to have CSC administer the life insurance policies Wilton Re has acquired.
Life Reinsurer Gears Up for Major Deals
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 9:57 AM
Boomers Often Need BOLIPs
The need for life insurance often involves far more than only covering a simple call for cash in the event of an individual’s untimely death. Federal and state taxes, accounting rules, and state creditor laws all have led to the use of life insurance in far more complex applications. To demonstrate the use of a BOLIP in advanced planning, consider just one use of life insurance in business planning situations — life insurance as a financial hedge.
Boomers Often Need BOLIPs
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Boomers Often Need BOLIPs
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Permalink posted by armandn @ 9:56 AM
Roughly Half of Adult Americans Would Rather Renew Their Driver's Licenses Than Assess Their Life Insurance Needs
Would you rather have a root canal or baby-sit sextuplets? If neither seems appealing, consider that many Americans would choose either scenario if it meant they could put off looking into their life insurance needs. The results of a new survey released today by the nonprofit Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE) show that while the majority of Americans feel that life insurance is a necessity, many would do just about anything than take the first step to obtain it.
Roughly Half of Adult Americans Would Rather Renew Their Driver's Licenses Than Assess Their Life Insurance Needs
Source: Earthtimes.org
Roughly Half of Adult Americans Would Rather Renew Their Driver's Licenses Than Assess Their Life Insurance Needs
Source: Earthtimes.org
Permalink posted by armandn @ 9:53 AM
Friday, September 14, 2007
Prudential Retirement Expands Investment Choice to Plan Sponsors and Participants
As part of its ongoing commitment to enhance and expand investment choice for retirement plan sponsors and their participants, Prudential Retirement has added two mid-cap growth institutional sub-advised funds to its investment platform. Prudential Retirement is a business of Prudential Financial, Inc.
Prudential Retirement Expands Investment Choice to Plan Sponsors and Participants
Source: Business Wire
Prudential Retirement Expands Investment Choice to Plan Sponsors and Participants
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:10 AM
Credit Woes Won't Rock Prudential
Following the recent pullback in the shares (down about 15% from its May 2007 high) in part due to asset quality concerns, we are upgrading our rating of Prudential Financial to Outperform from Neutral.
Credit Woes Won't Rock Prudential
Source: Barron's (subscription may be required)
Credit Woes Won't Rock Prudential
Source: Barron's (subscription may be required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:08 AM
Income Annuities Can Free Savings for Investing
Today, with people living longer, traditional pension plans disappearing and uncertainty about Social Security and investment returns, a study by the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton Financial Institutions Center makes a strong argument for annuitizing a big chunk of our retirement savings. (Disclaimer:New York Life Insurance Co., a leading seller of income annuities, co-sponsored the study.)
Income Annuities Can Free Savings for Investing
Source: Insurance News Net
Income Annuities Can Free Savings for Investing
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:07 AM
Lincoln Financial Group Expands MoneyGuard Reserve to New York State
Lincoln Financial Group today announced its MoneyGuard® Reserve product is available for sale in the state of New York. MoneyGuard® Reserve, a universal life insurance product, offers benefits for a variety of long-term care services including nursing home care, home health care, assisted living and adult day care, and is issued by Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, a member of the Lincoln Financial Group.
Lincoln Financial Group Expands MoneyGuard Reserve to New York State
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Lincoln Financial Group Expands MoneyGuard Reserve to New York State
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 10:04 AM
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Nationwide Launches 'YourLife' Whole Life Insurance
Many Americans often cite price as a primary reason why they don't have life insurance or are underinsured. To help consumers overcome that objection and to help them make simpler, affordable choices, Nationwide Financial Services, Inc., has launched a new whole life insurance product. This is the second in a new series from Nationwide YourLife, and follows Nationwide's new YourLife Term Insurance launched in mid-July.
Nationwide Launches 'YourLife' Whole Life Insurance
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Nationwide Launches 'YourLife' Whole Life Insurance
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 6:17 AM
The Next Generation of Life Insurance
Life insurance has come a long way since the first U.S. policy was issued by the Presbyterian Synod of Philadelphia in 1761. Over the past 246 years, our industry has risen to many new challenges and has provided products that meet consumers’ needs in many different ways.
The Next Generation of Life Insurance
Source: Life Insurance Selling
The Next Generation of Life Insurance
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Permalink posted by armandn @ 6:16 AM
Connecticut Ranks No. 1 In Saving For Retirement
When it comes to putting away money for retirement, residents of Connecticut - the state with the highest per capita income - are leading the country.
Connecticut surpassed last year's winner, New Jersey, for the top spot in A.G. Edwards' "Nest Egg Index." The index, released Wednesday, ranks the top 500 U.S. communities on their residents' personal savings and investing behavior. New Jersey fell to second, followed by Minnesota, Massachusetts and Maryland.
Connecticut Ranks No. 1 In Saving For Retirement
Source: Hartford Courant
Connecticut surpassed last year's winner, New Jersey, for the top spot in A.G. Edwards' "Nest Egg Index." The index, released Wednesday, ranks the top 500 U.S. communities on their residents' personal savings and investing behavior. New Jersey fell to second, followed by Minnesota, Massachusetts and Maryland.
Connecticut Ranks No. 1 In Saving For Retirement
Source: Hartford Courant
Permalink posted by armandn @ 6:14 AM
Phoenix Names Cody to Lead New Alternative Products Initiative
The Phoenix Companies, Inc. today announced that Katherine Cody, senior vice president, will lead its new Alternative Products unit that was formed to develop innovative ways to extend features of life insurance and annuity products to other financial products to help meet the retirement income needs of American consumers.
Phoenix Names Cody to Lead New Alternative Products Initiative
Source: Business Wire
Phoenix Names Cody to Lead New Alternative Products Initiative
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 6:12 AM
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Innovation for a Lifetime of Guaranteed Income
The 77 million baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, are rapidly approaching retirement. As they do, the demographic ground is changing right under their feet. The undeniable fact is that people in general are living longer, and boomers will be no exception. It is very likely that many, if not most boomers will spend a much longer time in retirement than they originally anticipated — not necessarily from retiring early, but from living longer than past generations.
Innovation for a Lifetime of Guaranteed Income
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Innovation for a Lifetime of Guaranteed Income
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:40 AM
Compulife Introduces a Graphic 'History of Term Life Insurance Premiums'
Compulife Software Inc. has added an important new feature to its www.term4sale.com web site called "History of Term Life insurance Premiums". The public can now see graphic images of the average month to month changes in term life insurance premiums for the last 10 years. The graphs cover 10, 20 and 30 year level term products for 5 classes of health.
Compulife Introduces a Graphic 'History of Term Life Insurance Premiums'
Source: PR Web
Compulife Introduces a Graphic 'History of Term Life Insurance Premiums'
Source: PR Web
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:38 AM
Acceptance of Annuities Seen to be on the Rise
Annuities have regained their place as the most popular insurance product among financial advisers, while pricing has become more of a consideration.
Those were among the findings of the third annual “Use of Insurance Products in Financial Plans” survey conducted last month by InvestmentNews.
The 246 financial advisers who responded had an average of $291 million in total assets under management.
Acceptance of Annuities Seen to be on the Rise
Source: Investment News (subscription required)
Those were among the findings of the third annual “Use of Insurance Products in Financial Plans” survey conducted last month by InvestmentNews.
The 246 financial advisers who responded had an average of $291 million in total assets under management.
Acceptance of Annuities Seen to be on the Rise
Source: Investment News (subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:37 AM
Missouri Panel Eye Abusive Life Insurance Transactions
A Missouri legislative panel is examining an abusive type of life insurance transaction that speculators use to profit from the deaths of senior citizens.
The Senate Interim Committee on Consumer and Financial Protection is conducting a Sept. 11, 2007, hearing on what is known as “stranger-originated life insurance (STOLI),” a consumer abuse that is increasingly drawing national attention. State insurance departments around the country and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) are working on ways to deter STOLI, an effort strongly supported by the life insurance industry.
Missouri Panel Eye Abusive Life Insurance Transactions
Source: Insurance News Net
The Senate Interim Committee on Consumer and Financial Protection is conducting a Sept. 11, 2007, hearing on what is known as “stranger-originated life insurance (STOLI),” a consumer abuse that is increasingly drawing national attention. State insurance departments around the country and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) are working on ways to deter STOLI, an effort strongly supported by the life insurance industry.
Missouri Panel Eye Abusive Life Insurance Transactions
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:35 AM
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
MassMutual Expands Two Flexible-Premium Deferred Annuities
Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) today announced several new enhancements within its MassMutual Transitions Select and MassMutual Evolution flexible-premium deferred variable annuities. Expanded asset allocation, guaranteed living/income and death benefit features are now available where approved, subject to state availability. Guarantees are contingent upon the claims-paying ability of the issuing company.
MassMutual Expands Two Flexible-Premium Deferred Annuities
Source: PR Newswire
MassMutual Expands Two Flexible-Premium Deferred Annuities
Source: PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:23 AM
John Hancock Announces Next Phase of Multi-Million Dollar 'Promises' Campaign
John Hancock Financial Services today unveiled three new advertisements, extending its "Promises" campaign launched one year ago. The new ads further develop the campaign that positions John Hancock -- through its trusted insurance brand and top performing, innovative investment products -- as empowering Baby Boomers to fulfill their life promises to themselves and loved ones. The ads are part of the $25-35million advertising commitment announced during the first phase of the campaign last year.
John Hancock Announces Next Phase of Multi-Million Dollar 'Promises' Campaign
Source: Yahoo! Finance
John Hancock Announces Next Phase of Multi-Million Dollar 'Promises' Campaign
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:22 AM
Tony Gwynn, Baseball Hall of Famer, Teams Up with Guardian to Educate the Public about the Benefits of Life Insurance
The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian) has teamed up with Tony Gwynn, former Major League Baseball All Star for the San Diego Padres and latest member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, to educate Americans about the importance of life insurance during Life Insurance Awareness month (September). Gwynn's partnership with Guardian will include a national radio media tour on September 14, 2007.
Tony Gwynn, Baseball Hall of Famer, Teams Up with Guardian to Educate the Public about the Benefits of Life Insurance
Source: PR Newswire
Tony Gwynn, Baseball Hall of Famer, Teams Up with Guardian to Educate the Public about the Benefits of Life Insurance
Source: PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:21 AM
Jackson Launches Living Benefits Selection Center
Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson) today announced the launch of the Living Benefits Selection Center (LBSC), a Web-based sales and training tool designed to help simplify the process of selecting an optional living benefit, available for an additional charge, within Jackson's family of variable annuities. The LBSC enables registered representatives to get instant client-approved output based on a client's profile information after answering a few qualifying questions. The tool also features multimedia presentations, fact sheets and side-by-side comparisons of Jackson's optional living benefits.
Jackson Launches Living Benefits Selection Center
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Jackson Launches Living Benefits Selection Center
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:19 AM
Monday, September 10, 2007
Whole Life Insurance: Solutions for the Boomer Market
When you talk to agents and brokers about whole life insurance, they generally agree that whole life is a wonderful product with numerous applications, great flexibility, and an unrivaled track record of delivering value. Yet in the same breath, they express concern that whole life can be difficult to explain, hard to sell, and viewed with some distrust by clients and prospects who repeat the “buy term and invest the difference” mantra.
Whole Life Insurance: Solutions for the Boomer Market
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Whole Life Insurance: Solutions for the Boomer Market
Source: Life Insurance Selling
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:30 AM
Innovation In Annuities - What It Takes to Win
Is innovation alive or dead in the annuity business? The answer is, “yes—well, sort of,” according to insurance professionals contacted for this story.
The question is pertinent because some industry watchers have been saying that annuity innovation evaporated as of the early 2000s recession and never returned. Yet many carriers routinely tout their latest rollouts as new, first, innovative and groundbreaking. Some rollouts even carry the patented or patent-pending tags.
Innovation In Annuities - What It Takes to Win
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
The question is pertinent because some industry watchers have been saying that annuity innovation evaporated as of the early 2000s recession and never returned. Yet many carriers routinely tout their latest rollouts as new, first, innovative and groundbreaking. Some rollouts even carry the patented or patent-pending tags.
Innovation In Annuities - What It Takes to Win
Source: National Underwriter (subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:29 AM
Allianz Diversifies Its Sales Force
The multicultural recruitment effort at Allianz Life Insurance Co. of North America has hit its stride, with the insurer adding about 200 new diverse independent agents a month.
The company launched a major multicultural marketing effort two and a half years ago. The goal: to tap into the buying power of the country's changing demographics.
Allianz Diversifies Its Sales Force
Source: Biz Journals
The company launched a major multicultural marketing effort two and a half years ago. The goal: to tap into the buying power of the country's changing demographics.
Allianz Diversifies Its Sales Force
Source: Biz Journals
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:27 AM
Probe of Seminar for Seniors Finds Fraud
An investigation by federal and state regulators of "free lunch" investment seminars aimed at seniors has found high-pressure sales pitches masquerading as educational sessions, pervasive misleading claims for unsuitable financial products, and even fraud.
Probe of Seminar for Seniors Finds Fraud
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Probe of Seminar for Seniors Finds Fraud
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:25 AM
Friday, September 07, 2007
Prudential Retirement Provides Prescription for Ailing Retirement Plans
With defined contribution (DC) plans now firmly established as the primary retirement-savings vehicle for American workers—and with plan enrollments and savings balances still far below where they should be—Prudential Retirement has released a detailed report that examines current retirement-plan practices and offers a 12-point series of innovative proposals to energize DC programs and help plan participants build more secure retirements. Prudential Retirement is a business of Prudential Financial, Inc.
Prudential Retirement Provides Prescription for Ailing Retirement Plans
Source: Business Wire
Prudential Retirement Provides Prescription for Ailing Retirement Plans
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 1:12 PM
John Hancock Introduces New Program and Tools to Help 401(k) Participants on the Road to Retirement
John Hancock Retirement Plan Services recently unveiled two new initiatives aimed at helping 401(k) participants achieve a comfortable retirement. One is a campaign called 'Set a Goal', which encourages participants to develop detailed savings objectives. The other is a unique post-enrollment education program called 'EZRoute', which helps empower participants as they plan for retirement.
John Hancock Introduces New Program and Tools to Help 401(k) Participants on the Road to Retirement
Source: PR Newswire
John Hancock Introduces New Program and Tools to Help 401(k) Participants on the Road to Retirement
Source: PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 1:10 PM
Annuities Face-Off for Swanson and Allianz
Allianz Life Insurance Co. of North America, shortly before testifying in front of a congressional committee Wednesday that is scrutinizing sales of annuities to senior citizens by the insurance industry, announced a new slate of consumer protections designed to curb criticisms of one of its top-selling products.
Annuities Face-Off for Swanson and Allianz
Source: Insurance News Net
Annuities Face-Off for Swanson and Allianz
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 1:07 PM
Regulators Approve MetLife Purchase
Federal antitrust regulators cleared insurance company MetLife Inc.'s purchase of Safeguard Health Enterprises Inc., according to a notice issued by the Federal Trade Commission.
Financial terms of the deal, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year, were not disclosed in the Wednesday filing.
Regulators Approve MetLife Purchase
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Financial terms of the deal, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year, were not disclosed in the Wednesday filing.
Regulators Approve MetLife Purchase
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 1:05 PM
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Allianz Life Announces Further Initiative to Enhance Customer Protection
In testimony before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America President and Chief Executive Officer Gary C. Bhojwani today announced two new initiatives to further enhance protection of consumers buying the company's industry-leading annuity products.
Allianz Life Announces Further Initiative to Enhance Customer Protection
Source: PR Newswire
Allianz Life Announces Further Initiative to Enhance Customer Protection
Source: PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:00 AM
AXA Settles Charges for $3.8M
Asset management firm AXA Advisors will pay nearly $4 million in refunds and fines to settle charges that it failed to adequately supervise its fee-based brokerage business, and distributed misleading sales information, according to Crain's New York Business.
AXA Settles Charges for $3.8M
Source: Investment News (subscription required)
AXA Settles Charges for $3.8M
Source: Investment News (subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 7:00 AM
Retirement on Target
Recent trends suggest that Americans can look forward to spending more time in their "golden years." Not only has life expectancy increased considerably, but people are also retiring earlier than their predecessors did. While the prospect of a lengthy retirement may be a welcome one, it means that many investors must contend with a critical challenge: making their money last for an increasingly (and often unexpectedly) long duration.
Retirement on Target
Source: On Wall Street
Retirement on Target
Source: On Wall Street
Permalink posted by armandn @ 6:59 AM
Outlook on U.S. Life Insurance Sector Stable - S&P
Standard & Poor's Ratings Services said that its outlook for the US life insurance sector remained stable and that it expects positive and negative rating movements to be about equal over the next 12 months.
Outlook on U.S. Life Insurance Sector Stable
Source: Forbes
Outlook on U.S. Life Insurance Sector Stable
Source: Forbes
Permalink posted by armandn @ 6:56 AM
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Is Your Life Insurance Plan Sufficient for the Future of Your Family?
Nearly half of working Americans' main fear is protecting their assets if they were to die unexpectedly. At the same time, most do not have enough--or any--life insurance. To help address this concern, the Principal Financial Group is participating in national Life Insurance Awareness Month during September, a time for American consumers to turn this worry into action. Life Insurance Awareness Month is coordinated by the nonprofit Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE).
Is Your Life Insurance Plan Sufficient for the Future of Your Family?
Source: Insurance News Net
Is Your Life Insurance Plan Sufficient for the Future of Your Family?
Source: Insurance News Net
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:56 AM
Nationwide Rolls Out Enhanced VA
Nationwide Financial Services Inc. has kicked off enhancements to its Lifetime Income Rider.
As of today, consumers can get a guaranteed roll-up of 7%, which means that the income benefit base will gain 7% in annual interest for 10 years or until the first withdrawal.
Nationwide Rolls Out Enhanced VA
Source: Investment News(subscription required)
As of today, consumers can get a guaranteed roll-up of 7%, which means that the income benefit base will gain 7% in annual interest for 10 years or until the first withdrawal.
Nationwide Rolls Out Enhanced VA
Source: Investment News(subscription required)
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:53 AM
AIG American General Announces AIG Corporate Investor Variable Universal Life Insurance
AIG American General announces the launch of AIG Corporate Investor, a variable universal life insurance product underwritten by American General Life Insurance Company (American General Life), a member company of American International Group, Inc. (AIG). The new product, which will be sold through American General Life’s captive sales force, is designed for use with nonqualified deferred compensation plans that use either salary reduction or salary continuation techniques to fund benefits.
AIG American General Announces AIG Corporate Investor Variable Universal Life Insurance
Source: Business Wire
AIG American General Announces AIG Corporate Investor Variable Universal Life Insurance
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:53 AM
Allstate Survey Shows Many Newlyweds Leaving Financial Future to Chance
While newlyweds traditionally receive advice from friends and relatives on secrets for a successful marriage, protecting their financial future is one thing seemingly forgotten in these conversations.
A recent survey by Allstate Insurance Company shows the value of newlyweds’ combined assets is approximately $107,000 on average. However, few newlyweds are actually taking steps to protect their financial future through purchases such as life insurance. The majority of the respondents (61%) did not purchase a policy before marriage, and 64% of those still had not purchased life insurance within the first three years of marriage. In fact, only 23% of these spouses claimed to have bought life insurance during their first year of marriage, and this trend continued in years two (2%) and three (7%).
Allstate Survey Shows Many Newlyweds Leaving Financial Future to Chance
Source: Business Wire
A recent survey by Allstate Insurance Company shows the value of newlyweds’ combined assets is approximately $107,000 on average. However, few newlyweds are actually taking steps to protect their financial future through purchases such as life insurance. The majority of the respondents (61%) did not purchase a policy before marriage, and 64% of those still had not purchased life insurance within the first three years of marriage. In fact, only 23% of these spouses claimed to have bought life insurance during their first year of marriage, and this trend continued in years two (2%) and three (7%).
Allstate Survey Shows Many Newlyweds Leaving Financial Future to Chance
Source: Business Wire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:51 AM
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month
All too often, the death of a provider results in financial hardship for their loved ones. Bills pile up. Family members must relocate to less expensive housing. College and other long-range plans get put on hold. This is not the kind of financial legacy that most of us want to leave our loved ones. That is why life insurance is an essential part of any family’s financial plan. It helps ensure that a family’s goals and financial dreams will remain on track, no matter what life may bring.
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month
Source: Hispanic PR Newswire
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month
Source: Hispanic PR Newswire
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:15 AM
Keep Life Insurance Simple
Often, simple things do the job best. But that'll never stop people from trying to improve on simple things. And while some of those efforts bear fruit, you're often be better off with the original.
Keep Life Insurance Simple
Source: Motley Fool
Keep Life Insurance Simple
Source: Motley Fool
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:14 AM
The More You Weigh, the More You Pay
We've all heard the reports about the epidemic of obesity in this country, which has severe implications for public health. But we rarely hear about what obesity means for our wallets.
The impact is not lost on the life insurance industry, however. Obesity causes at least 300,000 excess deaths in the U.S. and is the second leading cause of unnecessary death, according to the American Obesity Association.
The More You Weigh, the More You Pay
Source: The Street
The impact is not lost on the life insurance industry, however. Obesity causes at least 300,000 excess deaths in the U.S. and is the second leading cause of unnecessary death, according to the American Obesity Association.
The More You Weigh, the More You Pay
Source: The Street
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:13 AM
Manulife Financial Closes Agreement to Acquire Berkshire-TWC Financial
Manulife Financial Corporation announced today that it has received required regulatory approvals and has closed its purchase of Berkshire-TWC Financial Group Inc. The transaction has added more than 700 Advisors and 237 branches from Berkshire's mutual fund and securities business to Manulife's existing operations across the country.
Manulife Financial Closes Agreement to Acquire Berkshire-TWC Financial
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Manulife Financial Closes Agreement to Acquire Berkshire-TWC Financial
Source: Yahoo! Finance
Permalink posted by armandn @ 11:08 AM
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