The U.S. annuity industry faces major regulatory changes in 2026 with new best-interest standards, valuation rules, and tax impacts shaping retirement planning and product design. Financial professionals must adapt to evolving compliance and market demands.

U.S. annuity sales hit a record $119.3 billion in Q3 2025, driven by growth in registered variable and index-linked annuities amid market volatility and inflation concerns.

Nationwide launches CareMatters Annuity with guaranteed LTC benefits; AllianceBernstein expands Secure Income Portfolio by adding fixed-annuity allocation for retirement income solutions.

Brighthouse Financial re-engages in acquisition negotiations with Sixth Street after talks with Aquarian Holdings falter, highlighting trends in insurance industry ownership shifts and private equity deals.

Malibu Life Holdings acquires TruSpire Retirement Insurance for $45M, marking entry into U.S. direct annuity market with plans to launch fixed-indexed annuity products in 2026.

Oneglobal Broking acquires Bermuda-based Life and Annuity Services to enhance its life insurance and annuity planning capabilities, expanding offerings for corporate and individual clients.

Group 1001 Insurance appoints Derek Towriss as President of Gainbridge Insurance Agency, advancing leadership in annuities and insurtech innovation.

TruChoice Financial Group launches SmartHub, an integrated platform streamlining annuity sales for financial professionals with enhanced order management and compliance.

Mountain Life Insurance's Secure Summit 6 guaranteed annuity attracts strong demand with a 10% first-year crediting rate, reflecting market trends favoring predictable retirement income and capital preservation.

The U.S. life/annuity insurance sector saw a 39% net income rise in Q1 2025, driven by premiums, investments, and reserve adjustments per AM Best report.