Dark Horse Candidate
How did upstart Jackson National Life get near the top of the VA heap? And why are so many advisors nervous that it may 'de-risk' its popular Perspective contract? JNL EVP Clifford Jack tells RIJ all that he can...
The Stag Brings Back GLWBs
In an about-face on VAs, The Hartford has gone back to the GLWB, tempering its risks with a CPPI fund. The arrival of Steve Kluever from Jackson National in March reflects the new thinking.
VAs: In Search of a Winning Formula
VA issuers should take a cue from Michael Jordan, and realize that team players win more championships than individual stars, advises Bing Waldert of Cerulli Associates.
Putnam, A Work in Progress
With the announcement of a retirement research center, Putnam Investments joins the "thought-leadership" game. It's all part of CEO Bob Reynolds' campaign to rebuild a tarnished brand--and to change the way America saves.
Featured
Mutual Satisfaction
What "story" helps you sell VAs? Mark Caner of Western & Southern describes his firm's contract as a safe, nimble, fuel-efficient vehicle for cruising through retirement.
News
Wells Fargo leads banks in annuity sales
Ten large bank holding companies accounted for about $563 million or more than 64% of the $748.2 million in bank annuity income in the first quarter.
One in five 401(k) participants has no outside savings: Fidelity
But nearly one in 10 corporate defined contribution participants increased their contribution rate during the first quarter of 2011, the largest percentage to do so since Fidelity started tracking the figure in 2006.
Death rates vary by gender, ethnicity and location
Though widely feared, Alzheimer’s disease was officially blamed for only seven percent of deaths among the elderly in 2009, according to a data brief from the National Center for Health Statistics.
Voters of all stripes want Wall Street swept clean
A poll sponsored by AARP and others found that 83% of Democrats, 73% of independents and 68% of Republicans favor a single federal agency dedicated to protecting consumers from financial fraud and misconduct.
Fixed annuity sales improve in 1Q 2011
"Though low by historical standards, fixed annuity rates were higher than in fourth quarter 2010," said Jeremy Alexander, president and CEO of Beacon Research.
In Search of a Safer Bet
Asset transfer programs and managed risk funds are playing a significant role in revitalizing the VA industry, and their benefits may ultimately reach the wider world of investing, writes this close follower of the annuity business.
