In Investment News, Darla Mercado’s article “Strong sales of annuities boosted Jackson’s earnings, top exec says,” reports the rise in annuity sales for Jackson National Life Insurance Co. Their sales and deposits in the first half of 2009 increased to $6.1 billion, a significant rise from 2008’s first half sales of $5.94 billion. Sales of variable annuities aided that rise largely with an increase from $3.5 billion in 2008 to $3.8 billion in 2009. Their fixed annuity sales went from $1.6 billion to $1.9 billion in the same time frame. Jackson attributes their success to consumers’ desire for quality in the annuity marketplace. When making a 401k annuity transfer or purchasing annuities with other funds, consumers want to be sure that the insurance company they use will be secure in the future and fulfill their obligations. A strong balance sheet, a stable parent company (Prudential PLC of London), and great product offerings are more reasons Jackson believes they are doing so well.
