(New York)

Annuities have a long and complicated past that ultimately created a less-than-stellar reputation. However, over the last few years, the asset class has undergone a transformation of newer and better products, combined with better sales practices. Now, two big elements are creating a major tailwind for the product: growing demand from retirement plan inclusion, and aging demographics. According to TIAA, TIAA “nearly nine in 10 plan sponsors who do not offer in-plan guaranteed lifetime income annuities are at least somewhat interested in offering them” (from ThinkAdvisor).

FINSUM: Baby boomers are in peak retirement years and many don’t have as much saved as they would like, so annuities have a role. Further, Gen X is aging and likes annuities more than the Boomers, so they are presenting a very fertile market as well. Accordingly, many firms are seeking more annuities participation.