The Standard, formally known as Standard Insurance Company, was founded in 1906 in Portland, Oregon, by Leo Samuel. Originally established as a life insurance provider, the company has since evolved into a diversified financial services organization. It offers a range of insurance and financial products, with a focus on annuities, retirement plans, and employee benefits. The company operates under the umbrella of StanCorp Financial Group, which was acquired by the Japanese insurance conglomerate Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance in 2016. Despite this acquisition, The Standard continues to operate independently in the U.S., retaining its core values of customer service and reliability.


The Standard specializes in a range of annuity products designed to offer clients stable retirement income and financial planning options: Fixed Index Annuities, Fixed Annuities and Immediate Annuities.

The Standard maintains strong financial stability, consistently earning solid ratings from independent rating agencies like A.M. Best, Fitch, and Moody’s. Its financial strength has been bolstered by its acquisition by Meiji Yasuda Life, which has allowed it to remain competitive while enhancing its financial backing. As of 2023, the company has approximately $33 billion in assets under management and serves millions of clients nationwide.

The Standard has a long-standing reputation for corporate social responsibility. It is known for its commitment to community service and philanthropy, particularly through its employee volunteer programs and partnerships with various charitable organizations. A well-known example is their annual "Employee Giving Campaign," which raises millions for local and national causes.

Pros:
- Financial Stability: Backed by Meiji Yasuda, The Standard has solid financial resources and continues to earn strong ratings from credit agencies, offering peace of mind to policyholders.

- Diverse Product Offering: With a strong focus on annuities, The Standard provides a variety of solutions, allowing clients to tailor their retirement plans to their specific needs.

- Reputation for Service: The Standard is known for its strong customer service and focus on maintaining long-term relationships with its clients.

- Community Engagement: The company’s emphasis on philanthropy and employee engagement contributes to a positive corporate culture, which in turn helps strengthen its reputation.

Cons:
- Limited Consumer Awareness: Despite being well-regarded in the industry, The Standard does not have the same level of brand recognition as some larger competitors, which may be a disadvantage in more competitive markets.

- Niche Product Focus: While the company excels in annuities and employee benefits, it lacks the broader product offerings found in more diversified financial services companies, potentially limiting appeal for clients seeking comprehensive financial solutions.

The Standard has built a reputation for stability, customer service, and a focus on providing retirement income solutions through its range of annuity products. Its backing by Meiji Yasuda ensures its financial strength, making it a reliable choice for clients looking for security in retirement planning. While its niche focus on annuities may limit its product diversification, The Standard’s commitment to quality and service ensures that it remains a trusted provider in the financial services industry.