Changes to "Guaranteed Income for Life" products

The Ever Changing World Of Investments


Since the guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit products (GLWB) first made its debut, investors have been gravitating towards this "Guaranteed Income for Life" product as an alternative solution for their retirement plans; especially in these troubling economic times, However, as the adage goes, "all good things must come to an end", and we are now starting to see life insurance companies, modify, recede, and now even exit this investment product.

Market conditions over the past four years have left everyone worrying and scratching their heads as to where to put their retirement savings. Even Bonds and GICs, the once stronghold of the fixed income market for the ultra conservative investors, can no longer provide the same level of income with the low interest environment. There is no wonder as to why we are seeing an increasingly amount of GLWB sales in 2012.

However, financial markets have not been as responsive to the recovering global economy as analysts had hoped for, and as a result of this, life insurance companies have now started to modify, recede, and even exit from this investment product.

The main reasoning comes from a continuing low interest rate environment, market volatility and slow recovery. Sustainability and capital reserves requirements set out by FSCO (or as Insurance companies like to call "RISK") cannot be met. I am convinced that there will be other closures in the near future.

If you are a Conservative Investor or a Risk Adverse Investor now is the time to investigate this product group. Where else can you get guarantees that your principle is protected and that you cannot outlive your money? This product is ideal for people who do not have a pension plan from work. Check it out before the guarantees are gone.

Give me a call or send me an email and I can discuss your specific situation with you.