The stock market is rocky, to say the least. Since the beginning of the year, we’ve seen some serious volatility in the markets. One week it's up, the next week it drops, and the uncertainty continues to rattle clients who are nearing or in retirement. The S&P 500 has had its moments of growth, but it's also been on a rollercoaster ride with dips and swings that make even the most seasoned investors nervous. And that’s where YOU come in. You have access to something most advisors don’t: Safe Money Products offered through The Ohlson Group that can shield your clients from the storm. While the market shakes and rattles, FIA’s offer shelter--principal protection, market-linked growth potential, and guaranteed income for life. That’s something your clients not only want right now... they need it. You should feel confident in what you offer. Because when you sit down with a client, you’re not just pitching a product—you’re delivering peace of mind. You’re giving retirees a way to secure the nest egg they’ve worked a lifetime to build. And with features like chronic illness benefits that double their guaranteed income if the unexpected happens, you’re providing real value in times of real need. Let’s talk about timing. The current rate environment? Incredible. These are the golden days of the annuity world. A few years from now, we’re going to look back and say, “Wow… those were the good old days.” So what do we do when the sun’s shining? That’s right—make hay. At The Ohlson Group, we’ve got more than just top-tier products. We’ve got your marketing engine: the Safe Money Places Agent Network. When you submit a piece of business through us, you get access to:
That badge sets you apart. It shows clients you’re not just another independent agent—you’re a Safe Money Places expert. You’re part of a movement. And all it takes to join? Just submit a piece of annuity business. That’s it. The outlook for fixed indexed annuities for the rest of this year? Strong. Promising. And full of opportunity. Clients are looking for answers, and you’ve got the right tools in your toolkit. So stay encouraged. Keep going. Remember: every “no” is just one step closer to a “yes.” Persevere. Push forward. The people you help today will thank you tomorrow. Submit a case. Join the network. And let’s make this your best year yet! In today’s market, uncertainty is the only certainty. The stock market continues to experience wild swings, with the Volatility Index (VIX) spiking in recent days, a flashing red blinker indicating investor fear. With the equity markets fluctuating unpredictably, clients are searching for stability—something to shield their hard-earned assets from devastating losses. Many have memories of 2008-2009 and can sense the headwinds coming. Strike now while the iron is hot – these cap rates, cap lock guarantee features and high premium bonuses will not last forever. This is why I feel we are entering an exciting moment in the FIA industry. As you know, we have that shield clients are looking for. FIAs provide clients with a safe harbor from market losses and volatility while offering guaranteed lifetime income, safe accumulation, and even long-term care-like benefits. In this climate, annuities aren’t just an option—they are the solution for many. Particularly those who’ve been overlooked by investment advisors who only work with clients who’ve got $1M of AUM. There are hundreds of thousands of hard-working folks who are looking for a lifeline and captain to navigate them through this potential storm. You, the agent, have the tools and products to help. And working with the Ohlson Group, you will find the best marketers, back office and digital marketing team in the industry. Top Features on Modern FIAs:
In summation, we are in a golden era for annuity sales. It’s a rare moment when:
Our marketers are standing by ready for action – give us a call or book an appointment. One of our marketing directors can help you with case design, lead generation (internal annuity lead program) and discuss the benefits of being a member of The Safe Money Places Agent Network. Let’s make it a banner year – and thanks for your support! For insurance agents looking to provide their clients with more than just traditional life insurance protection, Indexed Universal Life (IUL) offers a unique combination of benefits. Beyond the death benefit, IUL policies provide tax-advantaged cash value accumulation, income potential, and living benefits like long-term care (LTC) riders. At Ohlson Group, we specialize in helping agents structure and present IUL solutions tailored to their clients’ needs. Whether you’re new to selling IUL or looking to refine your approach, our Life Insurance Director, Levon Justice, and our experienced team are here to help. Why Indexed Universal Life? IUL is more than just life insurance—it’s an asset. Unlike term policies that only provide a death benefit, IUL allows policyholders to:
IUL as a Retirement StrategyOne of the biggest selling points of IUL is its potential to create a tax-free income stream in retirement. By leveraging the tax-free loan provisions built into these policies, clients can supplement their retirement without increasing their taxable income—helping them avoid higher tax brackets, Social Security taxation, and Medicare surcharges. Compared to other retirement savings vehicles like 401(k)s and IRAs, IUL offers:
Levon Justice and the Ohlson Group Can HelpAt the Ohlson Group, we work closely with agents to structure Indexed Universal Life cases that sell. Whether your client is looking for tax-free retirement income, legacy planning, or living benefits, we can help tailor a policy that meets their needs.
Let’s Build Your Next IUL CaseSelling Indexed Universal Life is not just about offering life insurance—it’s about helping clients create a financial asset that provides protection, growth, and tax-efficient income. At the Ohlson Group, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your next IUL case and see how Levon Justice and our team can help you succeed. Whether it’s an IUL strategy or any other life insurance need, we have the expertise and support to help you grow your business. Fixed Indexed Annuities: A Strong Bond Alternative in an Uncertain Interest Rate Environment2/27/2025 In today’s interest rate environment, financial professionals are searching for ways to protect their clients' assets while still offering growth potential. With bond markets facing volatility and traditional fixed-income yields remaining uncertain, fixed indexed annuities (FIAs) have emerged as a great alternative. As we all know, unlike traditional bonds, FIAs offer principal protection, tax-deferred growth, and the ability to participate in market upside without the risk of market losses. This combination makes FIAs an attractive solution for clients seeking stability, growth, and guaranteed income options, particularly as we navigate the ever-changing economic landscape. Why FIAs Make Sense as a Bond Alternative?Traditionally, bonds have been a go-to asset for conservative investors, offering steady income and lower risk. However, in today’s economic climate, bonds carry interest rate risk—when rates rise, bond values fall. Additionally, bond yields have struggled to keep pace with inflation, leaving investors searching for alternative solutions that can provide both protection and reasonable returns. FIAs, by contrast, provide a unique advantage:
Navigating the Annuity Landscape with Ohlson GroupFinding the right FIA to fit your clients’ needs can be overwhelming, given the variety of products and features available. That’s where Ohlson Group comes in. Nick and Joe Ohlson have been helping agents find product solutions for over 20 years and our marketing team is well-versed in the annuity and life insurance marketplace. TakeawayWith interest rates in flux and market uncertainty persisting, fixed indexed annuities are an excellent bond alternative for clients seeking growth potential with downside protection. Whether you're looking for better product options, expert guidance, or a lead generation program, Ohlson Group is here to help. Contact the Ohlson Group today with case details! In today’s unpredictable market, insurance agents specializing in annuities have a unique opportunity to provide clients with a powerful solution: Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB) Riders, also known as Lifetime Income Riders. These riders not only offer guaranteed income but also provide higher payout potential than traditional investment strategies—without the risk of market downturns. Why Lifetime Income Riders Can Outperform the 4% RuleFor years, financial advisors have relied on the 4% withdrawal rule, a strategy that assumes retirees can safely withdraw 4% of their portfolio annually without running out of money. However, in a volatile market, this rule is shaky at best. Market declines can quickly deplete a retiree’s assets, forcing them to either reduce withdrawals or risk outliving their savings. With annuities featuring Lifetime Income Riders, your clients don’t have to gamble on market performance. Instead, they receive contractually guaranteed income for life, regardless of economic conditions. Unlike traditional investments that require clients to self-manage withdrawals, annuities guarantee exact payout numbers, ensuring peace of mind for retirees who need reliable income. Higher Payouts Than Investment Advisors Can OfferOne of the biggest advantages of annuities with Lifetime Income Riders is the ability to offer higher income than traditional investment strategies. Many advisors use a safe withdrawal rate of 3-4%, but annuities can provide 5% or more, depending on age and product selection. This means:
By locking in higher payouts, clients can enjoy their retirement without the anxiety of stock market fluctuations. The Ohlson Group Advantage: Helping You Close More Annuity CasesAt The Ohlson Group, we specialize in helping insurance agents put together strong, competitive annuity cases. Whether you’re looking for the best product for a specific client or need marketing support to grow your annuity business, Nick Ohlson, Joe Ohlson, and our experienced team are here to assist you. We provide:
With our expertise, you’ll be able to confidently present annuity solutions that outperform traditional investment strategies. Final ThoughtsIn a market where uncertainty is the norm, Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit Riders provide security, predictability, and higher income payouts. Unlike traditional investments that leave retirees at the mercy of market swings, annuities guarantee their income for life. Partner with Nick Olson, Joe Olson, and The Ohlson Group marketing team to bring these powerful solutions to your clients. Let’s grow your annuity business together! Want to learn more? Contact The Ohlson Group today and start putting together your next successful annuity case! For annuity producers, one of the most challenging parts of the sales process is simply getting a prospect on the phone. Leads may express interest in learning more about their retirement options, but life gets busy—and answering an unexpected call isn't always a priority. If you’re finding it difficult to connect with leads, you’re not alone. Fortunately, with a thoughtful approach and strategic outreach, you can increase your chances of landing that crucial first appointment. Here are practical strategies to help you work your leads better and overcome the phone connection hurdle. 1. Consistency is Key: Create a Call ScheduleIt’s important to be persistent—without crossing the line into being pushy. Data shows that multiple follow-up attempts dramatically improve the chances of making contact with a lead. Suggested Call Schedule:
Persistence signals professionalism and genuine interest—not desperation—when done respectfully. 2. The Goal of the First Phone CallThe objective of the initial call isn’t to close a sale. Instead, focus on building rapport and setting a time for a more in-depth conversation. What to Say:
Remember--you’re not selling the product on this call; you’re selling the appointment. 3. What to Say If You Need to Leave a VoicemailMany leads won’t answer on the first call. Leaving a warm and professional voicemail can encourage them to return your call. Voicemail Script: “Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Company Name]. You recently expressed interest in learning more about retirement strategies, and I wanted to personally follow up. I’ll try reaching you again soon, but feel free to call or text me at [Phone Number] if that’s easier for you. Looking forward to connecting!” Keep it short, friendly, and actionable. Avoid overwhelming them with too much information. 4. Effective Follow-Up EmailsEmails can reinforce your phone outreach and give leads a way to respond on their own time. Email Template: Subject Line: Quick Follow-Up to Your Retirement Inquiry Body: Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on your recent interest in retirement strategies. I’d love to schedule a quick call to answer your questions and share some insights tailored to your situation. What does your schedule look like this week for a 15-minute conversation? Feel free to reply to this email or call/text me directly at [Phone Number]. Looking forward to connecting, [Your Name] [Your Title/Company Name] 5. Using Text Messages StrategicallyTexting is an increasingly effective way to reach leads who may not respond to calls or emails. Text Message Example: “Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Company Name]. Just following up on your request for retirement info. When would be a good time for a quick call? Feel free to text me back if that’s easier!” Texts should always be short, respectful, and easy to respond to. 6. Build Trust Through PersonalizationPersonalization shows the lead that you’re genuinely interested in their unique situation. Use any available information from the lead form to tailor your outreach. For example: If the lead mentioned they’re nearing retirement, acknowledge that in your messaging: “Many clients I work with are navigating the transition from work to retirement, and I’d love to share some strategies that might benefit you.” 7. Don’t Give Up Too SoonIt’s easy to feel discouraged when calls go unanswered, but persistence pays off. Studies show that it can take 5 to 8 contact attempts before reaching a decision-maker. Stay consistent, professional, and optimistic.
By following these strategies—and balancing persistence with respect—you can increase your chances of connecting with leads, building relationships, and ultimately helping more clients secure their financial future. Happy calling, and good luck landing those appointments! As an agent in the competitive world of retirement planning, it’s essential to have a diverse toolbox of products to meet the varying needs of your clients. One product that has consistently stood out for its unique combination of growth potential and protection is the Fixed Index Annuity (FIA). This article will explore the benefits, features, and key selling points of FIAs to help you confidently present them to your clients. What Are Fixed Index Annuities?A Fixed Index Annuity is a type of insurance product designed to provide a reliable income stream in retirement while offering the opportunity for growth linked to the performance of a stock market index, such as the S&P 500. Unlike variable annuities, FIAs protect your client’s principal from market downturns, making them an attractive option for risk-averse individuals. Key Features of FIAs
Who Should Consider Fixed Index Annuities?FIAs are ideal for clients who:
Overcoming Common ObjectionsWhen discussing FIAs, some clients may raise concerns. Here are ways to address common objections:
How to Position FIAs in Your Client Conversations
Closing the ConversationFixed Index Annuities offer a unique combination of safety, growth potential, and income stability that can appeal to a broad range of clients. By understanding their needs and presenting the benefits of FIAs in a clear and relatable way, you can position yourself as a trusted advisor and help them achieve their retirement goals.
Remember, your role isn’t just to sell a product—it’s to provide solutions that improve your clients’ financial well-being. With Fixed Index Annuities, you’re offering a product that brings peace of mind and security for the future. The anticipated sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2025 may no longer bring sweeping federal estate tax changes. Instead, state-level estate and inheritance taxes are emerging as critical planning considerations, with some states proposing new transfer tax laws. While many in the financial planning community had anticipated an estate planning renaissance of sorts driven by the sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act at the end of 2025, the results of the election paint a different picture. Over the relatively recent past, anyone active in the estate planning market has looked to the end of 2025 as a major milestone. The potential sunset of some of the provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, absent action by Congress, would result in one of the largest changes to U.S. Tax code in history. Unified government with Republican control has changed that outlook dramatically. Rather than anticipating a sunset, many experts now believe an extension of current law or even a complete repeal of the estate tax as more likely outcomes. It seems that the long history of significant, periodic change in the relevant laws will be extended. That said, there is another transfer tax that behaves quite differently in terms of frequency of change: State level estate or inheritance taxes. Just over a third of states currently have some sort of tax in place, and if state level budget forecasts are any indication, there may be others considering implementing some type of transfer tax. Figure 1: States with Estate and/or Inheritance Taxes 1It is important to note that these taxes are far more predictable than anything we’ve seen at the federal level. A quick look at 2020 and 2016 estate and inheritance tax summaries uncovers a very stable list of states, with exemption amounts and tax rates that have not materially changed. The result? Planning for these taxes should be viewed differently than federal estate taxes. If a client lives in one of these states it is quite likely their estate will be subject to these taxes, making them an important planning consideration. The other element impacting this topic focuses on states that currently do not have any kind of transfer tax. There are two trends to follow on this question, including the forward-looking budget outlook in a specific state and the multiple states considering implementing new transfer taxes. Budget forecasts obviously vary by state, but the relatively recent past has driven a specific fact pattern across all states: The massive infusion of cash from the federal government during the COVID era. These funds have now largely been spent, and the growth in state level surpluses either has or will come to an end shortly. 2 This trend, plus increasing pressure on state budgets from climate change and caring for an aging population are causing states to consider implementing new taxes, with a particular focus on the wealthy. Table 1: States Considering New Wealth or Transfer TaxesThankfully, the techniques that have been used to reduce or eliminate federal level estate taxation will also generally work when addressing state level taxation. That said, consulting with an expert with true “local knowledge” of the tax provisions in a client’s state is critical. Simplest among those techniques? A life insurance strategy owned outside of the client’s estate, ideally integrating with the client’s Long-term Care planning.
The contents of this document should not be considered as tax or legal advice. Any information or guidance provided is solely for educational or informational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. It is always recommended to consult with a licensed financial or legal advisor for specific guidance related to your individual situation. As 2024 comes to a close, Ohlson Group proudly reflects on a year filled with growth, new partnerships, and significant milestones. This year, we celebrated remarkable anniversaries within our leadership team. My partner and brother, Nick Ohlson marked his 21st anniversary with the Ohlson Group, demonstrating his unwavering commitment and vision. Similarly, I celebrated 18 years with the company, continuing to drive our success as a family business. We also honored Annie Konopka and Jason Garriott, both of whom reached their 14-year anniversaries, showcasing their dedication and excellence in serving our clients and agents. Levon Justice celebrated his fourth anniversary working with Ohlson Group. There’s not enough space to thank everyone on the team – however it goes without being said that each member of our team is an invaluable link in our chain to success. This year brought new opportunities as we partnered with carriers like Axonic, Baltimore Life, and Lumico, broadening our ability to deliver top-tier products and solutions. We also welcomed over 100 new agents into the Ohlson Group family, further strengthening our network. A standout moment of the year was our August convention in Carmel, where agents, partners, and staff gathered to celebrate accomplishments and plan for the future. The event featured inspiring guest speakers, including Kim O’Brien from FACC and representatives from Revol One Financial, North American and One America, sparking fresh ideas and reinforcing our shared vision. At the Ohlson Group, we’re more than just a business—we’re a family. We deeply value the relationships we’ve built with our agents and partners, and we consider you an essential part of that extended family. Working with you this past year has been a privilege, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration in the years ahead. As we approach 2025, we’re thrilled to announce exciting developments, including innovative lead-generation strategies appointment-setting services, cutting-edge technology, and the strong leadership and availability you’ve come to expect. Thank you for being part of our record-setting year. Here’s to making 2025 another incredible year together! In the competitive landscape of the annuity market, building a strong database of sales opportunities is essential for annuity professionals to thrive. This document outlines key strategies for effective lead generation, nurturing prospects, and cultivating long-term client relationships. We'll explore the importance of consistent communication drips, the significance of addressing the need for more decision time, and the unique challenges of reaching potential clients during non-traditional hours. Importance of Lead Generation Campaigns Lead generation campaigns are the lifeblood of any annuity professional's success. By proactively seeking out potential clients who may benefit from annuity products, you can build a steady pipeline of qualified prospects. These campaigns can involve a variety of tactics, including online advertising, content marketing, networking events, and referral programs. The key is to target your efforts towards individuals who are likely to be receptive to your message. This could include individuals approaching retirement, those with significant savings, or those seeking to protect their assets from market volatility. A well-structured lead generation campaign can effectively capture leads and nurture them through the sales process. It allows you to gather valuable information about potential clients, track their engagement, and ultimately convert them into paying customers. Leveraging Long-Term Communication DripsWhile some leads might convert quickly, many potential annuity clients require more time to evaluate their options. This is where long-term communication drips come into play. A well-designed drip campaign allows you to stay top-of-mind with prospects without overwhelming them. These campaigns can involve a combination of emails, texts, and even phone calls, strategically spaced out over time. Each communication should provide valuable content, answer common questions, and reiterate the benefits of an annuity product. The goal is to educate and inform potential clients while simultaneously demonstrating your commitment to helping them make informed decisions. This approach helps to build trust and position you as a reliable resource. Addressing the Need for More Decision TimeMany annuity professionals are quick to move prospects through the sales process. While this approach can be effective in some cases, it's crucial to recognize that individuals often need more time to make significant financial decisions. Annuity products, by their nature, involve long-term commitments and potentially large sums of money. This complexity necessitates a period of research and deliberation. By being patient and understanding the need for time, you can build a stronger relationship with potential clients and increase your chances of closing a deal. Emphasize the long-term benefits of annuity products and encourage open communication throughout the decision-making process. Reaching Leads During Non-Traditional Hours Traditional 9-to-5 business hours may not be the most effective way to reach potential annuity clients. Many individuals are still working during this period and may not be readily available to discuss financial planning. It's essential to consider reaching out during non-traditional hours, such as evenings and weekends. This allows you to connect with prospects when they are more likely to be available and receptive to your message. Technology can be a valuable tool in this regard. Leverage email marketing, automated text messaging, and even social media platforms to engage with prospects outside of traditional business hours. Nurturing Leads Through Consistent Outreach The key to turning leads into paying clients is consistent and strategic outreach. Don't rely solely on a single touchpoint. Instead, implement a multi-channel approach that combines email, text, and even phone calls. Each communication should be personalized and tailored to the individual's needs and interests. Utilize lead nurturing tools to track engagement and customize follow-up efforts. Don't just send out generic marketing materials. Provide valuable content that educates prospects about annuities, addresses their specific concerns, and positions you as a trusted advisor. Strengthening Client Relationships Over Time Building a long-term relationship with clients is key to continued success. Once you've closed a deal, don't simply move on to the next prospect. Instead, maintain regular communication, provide ongoing support, and demonstrate your commitment to their financial well-being. This could involve sending out periodic updates, hosting educational webinars, or simply checking in to see how they are doing. By nurturing these relationships, you can create a loyal client base that generates referrals and provides consistent revenue streams. Strengthening client relationships over time is crucial for annuity professionals. It builds trust, fosters loyalty, and ultimately leads to more business opportunities. Key Takeaways for Annuity Professionals Building a robust database of sales opportunities is essential for success in the annuity market. Here are some key takeaways for annuity professionals:
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