Feeling TIPSy
Seeing the potential for inflation ahead, analysts now recommend inflation-protected Treasuries, or TIPS,
more strongly than ever. But 401(k) participants buy few TIPs, and not every plan offers them.
Examining the Indices in Index-Linked Annuities
A mountain biker needs 18 or 21 gears to smooth a path over rocks and through arroyos. Index-linked annuities now collectively offer some 140 index choices. Hybrid indices can theoretically smooth an investor’s path through rocky markets--but they're complicated.
The Point of Indexing (in Annuities)
Every June, RIJ focuses on indexed annuities. Last year, we studied options in indexed annuities. This year we consider the indexes themselves, especially 'hybrid' and 'volatility-controlled' indexes. Bryan Anderson, Don Dady and David Lau weighed in.
The Irony of Inflation Forecasting (Research Roundup)
In this month's roundup, we learn that CEOs pay little attention to inflation. We also find out why retirees keep saving, why "centaurs" pick stocks so well, which financial biases keep people poor, and how working longer affects male mortality.
Featured
Separation Anxiety
Steve Sass and his co-researchers at Boston College were surprised to find no employers making plans to accommodate workers who can't afford to retire and want to remain on the job past the customary retirement age.
Investing Enlightenment At A Glance
This up-to-date "Periodic Table of Returns" shows that in financial markets, what goes up always comes down, and vice-versa.
News
AIG Reported in Talks to Sell Alico to MetLife
The sticking point in previous talks between AIG and MetLife was price. AIG reportedly demanded $20 billion, which was more than MetLife was willing to pay.
Feds Weigh Need for More Oversight of Stable Value Funds
The ERISA Advisory Council will look into the adequacy of disclosures to participants about stable value funds, and review the possible designation of stable value funds as QDIAs in 401(k) plans.
Proposed Watchdog Agency May Cross State, Federal Jurisdictions
Under the proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency Act of 2009, the new agency would regulate the 14,000 investment advisory firms overseen by state securities regulators.
Michael Jackson Windfall for Dutch Pension Fund
The burst of interest in the pop legend's music following his unexpected death has benefited owners of his songs, including ABP, the world's third largest pension fund.
“Free-Lunch” Seminars Still Baiting Seniors
This time, indexed annuity sellers were not among the accused.
Fixed Annuity News Reported By Beacon Research
Average credited rates for 5-year, CD-type/rate-for-term annuities in Beacon's Fixed Annuity Index were 3.45% in April, 3.21% in May and 3.16% in June.
Richards To Leave SEC Compliance Post
Lori A. Richards will depart as director of the SEC's Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations. Associate Director-Chief Counsel John Walsh will serve as Acting Director.
