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Did You Know?

That, as of the first quarter 2011, the combined net assets of U.S. variable annuities were valued at nearly $1.6 trillion, an 11% increase from first quarter 2010 and the highest level ever recorded?
In 2010 fixed annuity assets were valued at $659 billion a 6% increase from 2009?
That in 2010, the total average expense difference between variable annuities and mutual funds was 1.01%?
In 2011, the contribution limits range from $5,000-$6,000 for an IRA, $16,500-$22,000 for a 401(k) and $200,000 plus for a non-qualified annuity?
That the average number of funds per variable annuity contract was 50 in 2010, of which 47% of assets were invested in equities, 11% in bonds, and 20% in fixed-rate accounts?
That the guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit was offered on 79% of variable annuities in 2011 and was elected by 65% of contract holders?
Boomers who own annuities have a higher confidence in retirement expectations, with 92% believing they are doing a good job in preparing for retirement?

Advisors

High-Level Professional Resources

February 2010 IRI Insight Now Available

02.08.2010

The IRI Insight is the Insured Retirement Institute's educational news service that will help financial advisors better convey the benefits of insured retirement strategies to their clients as they look for more guarantees and less stress in this post-crisis world. An 8-page newsletter, the IRI Insight is inserted every other month into Financial Planning, On Wall Street, and Bank Investment Consultant.

The complete February 2010 IRI Insight is available in PDF here or by clicking on the individual articles listed below.

Click to view the entire IRI Insight

Rebuilding Trust with Your Clients by Michael Maslansky
Renowned pollster Michael Maslansky presents the results of research and an instant response dial session performed at the IRI Annual Meeting culminating in five keys to building and rebuilding trust with prospects and clients.
View from the President by Cathy Weatherford, IRI CEO and President
With recent research showing that 33% of Boomers have not yet thought about retirement, there is an opportunity to fill a critical void for millions who lack retirement security.
Proper Treatment of Annuities in Roth Conversions
Taking extra care during a Roth conversion can save costs and unfortunate surprises for your clients.
Money on the Sidelines
Results of a recent ICR poll conducted on behalf of IRI to determine the sentiments on the stock market of investors age 50+.
Communication Keeps Clients Invested During Volatile Markets
A panel of financial advisors discuss the need for aggressive and proactive communication with clients, especially during tough markets.
Upon Further Review- Taking a Closer Look at Product Development in the VA Industry
A central theme for 2009...the strong push to simplify benefits and reduce clutter.
Thorough Due Diligence Deepens Network of Trust
Due diligence can make a significant difference in the relationship between insurance firms, advisors, broker-dealers and clients.
IRI Launches Advisor Forums
IRI will host its inaugural Advisor Forum at the New York Hilton on February 23, 2010. During this one day program, financial advisors will learn proven retirement income planning strategies, discover new techniques, tools and tips and find out what resonates with your clients. Details are also available here.
Government and Regulatory Affairs Update
A view from Washington with an update on the Consumer Financial Protection Agency (CFPA) legislation and revised Suitability and Annuity Transactions Model.
PPA Changes Favor LTC Planning
Two provisions in the Pension Protection Act (PPA) will be of great interest to cleints worries about planning for long term care costs.

Click here to view the entire February 2010 IRI Insight (PDF)

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