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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?
Consumers
Tools to Assist in Your Retirement Investment Decisions
Trying to get the most out of retirement? Looking to create your own pension? Worried about inflation? Our simple, up-to-date information can lead you to answers. As always, investors are encouraged to seek advice from professionally qualified personnel educated in financial planning.
Recommended by 57 people IRI's New Retirement Income Guide: "Building Your Future"
This highly anticipated, client-oriented retirement income guide discusses strategies and products for retirement income planning. "Building Your Future" is a first-of-its-kind brochure designed to assist in retirement planning discussions with your clients.
Recommended by 58 people IRI's Retirement Income Guide Now Available
The Insured Retirement Institute's (IRI) FINRA-reviewed brochure, "Building Your Future: Strategies and Products for Retirement Income Planning," and the supplemental matrix, "Retirement Income Strategies & Products at a Glance," are now available.
Recommended by 49 people Boomer Bust Boom
Annuity sales in 2010 crossed the $200 billion mark and 2011 sales continue to climb in double-digit leaps. This is a good time to be an annuity seller and, with the dramatic stock market fluctuations of late, it’s a good time to be an annuity buyer.
Recommended by 31 people Why is the Social Security Hike Seen as Bad News?
Social Security payments will increase by 3.6 percent next year, the government announced last week. This is the first cost of living adjustment (COLA) for the program in three years. It will boost a typical retiree's payments by roughly $500 during 2012. Given price increases and tough economic times for many seniors, you'd think the extra money would be welcome.
Recommended by 31 people Social Security Goes Up, but So Do Medicare Premiums
The good news: Social Security recipients are getting their first cost-of-living raise, 3.6 percent, since 2009. The bad news: Rising Medicare premiums will eat into that increase for many, and could erase it entirely for a small percentage.
Recommended by 19 people Is a 3.6% Social Security Bump Enough?
The first Social Security increase since 2009 means an average raise of $39 a month for retirees. What will $39 buy?
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