Tr?id=566623520170033&ev=PageView&noscript=1

Key Considerations for Advisors When Assessing the Financial Soundness of Annuities

Posted on February 22nd, 2024 at 1:42 PM
Key Considerations for Advisors When Assessing the Financial Soundness of Annuities

From the desk of Jim Eccleston at Eccleston Law 

Advisors play a crucial role in guiding clients through the complex landscape of annuity investments. While rating agencies like Fitch and S&P Global Ratings generally highlight the strength of annuity issuers, advisors still should scrutinize certain factors in their assessment process. According to ThinkAdvisor, here are five critical considerations when evaluating the financial soundness of annuity issuers:

  1. Surplus: The surplus, representing excess capital, stands as the primary safeguard for insurers. A robust surplus acts as a buffer against unexpected spikes in claims or defaults in an investment portfolio.
  2. Growth: Rapid growth, although appealing to stock analysts, can pose risks for clients. Advisors should be cautious of insurers experiencing substantial growth, as initial expenses associated with new premiums can be burdensome.
  3. Product Issuer: Annuity products often originate from subsidiaries or affiliates rather than the parent company. Client claims are tied to the specific company on the contract, emphasizing the need to assess the financial strength of the issuing entity.
  4. Reinsurance Considerations: Advisors should investigate the impact of reinsurance, particularly from affiliated or foreign reinsurers. Reinsurance from non-U.S. entities may lack transparent financial reporting, warranting extra scrutiny.
  5. Guaranty Funds: Understanding the complexities of annuity guaranty funds is crucial. While such funds aim to protect policyholders and annuity contract holders in case of issuer failures, coverage limitations, variations across states, and potential gaps should be carefully considered.

 

Eccleston Law LLC represents investors and financial advisors nationwide in securities, employment, transition, regulatory, and disciplinary matters.

Tags: eccleston, eccleston law

Return to Archive

TESTIMONIALS

Previous
Next
Quotes Bigger

I cannot thank you enough for your efforts. You have proven to be a valuable resource.

Jim T.

LATEST NEWS AND ARTICLES

1787679428 Law
August 25, 2026
Ameriprise Broker Sues LPL-Affiliated Practice Over Use of "Kindred" Name

AdvisorHub reports that an Ameriprise Financial broker in Oklahoma has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against an LPL Financial-affiliated practice over its use of the word "kindred" in its name.

1787592120 Law
August 24, 2026
Sophisticated Voice Phishing Attacks Target Major Wall Street Firms

According to ThinkAdvisor, hackers recently launched a series of sophisticated cyberattacks against major Wall Street firms, including prominent hedge funds and private equity companies.

1787342003 Law
August 21, 2026
Rising Market Leverage Raises Concerns About Financial Stability Despite Low Volatility

The leverage that has helped drive the U.S.