IAMS and American Elm Team Up to Enhance Annuity Offerings for Financial Professionals

Strategic Partnership to Expand Annuity Access

In an exciting development for financial professionals across the U.S., Insurance Agency Marketing Services, Inc. (IAMS) has partnered with American Elm Distribution Partners, LLC (AEDP). This collaboration aims to enhance the availability of Registered Index-Linked Annuities (RILAs) and other structured annuity products, meeting the growing needs of the financial landscape.

Background of the Partnership

The alliance is a significant step in IAMS's commitment to providing robust financial services. With over 38 years of experience in delivering insurance solutions, IAMS has established itself as a leading independent marketing organization. American Elm, on the other hand, is a FINRA-registered broker-dealer specializing in alternative investments and compliant structured annuities.

Under this strategic partnership, both companies plan to leverage their combined strengths to foster growth in the annuity market. By offering a curated selection of highly-rated RILA products, they are setting the stage for independent insurance professionals to access innovative solutions tailored to meet diverse client needs.

Capitalizing on Market Trends

The demand for structured annuities has been accelerating, driven by clients' desires for retirement solutions that not only offer growth potential but also ensure downside protection. Christopher Conroy, Managing Partner at IAMS, mentions, "The need for structured annuities continues to rise as clients seek financial security in their retirement strategies. Our collaboration with AEDP allows us to provide exceptional RILA solutions that cater to this demand."

This partnership means financial professionals will have access to essential tools and training, enabling them to navigate today’s complex retirement planning landscape confidently. IAMS and AEDP intend to provide tailored sales support and educational resources, ensuring agents can offer transparent and client-focused solutions.

Expanding the Annuity Footprint

With structured annuity sales now exceeding $65 billion annually, the two organizations are well-positioned to respond to the pressing need for modern retirement solutions. IAMS serves over 8,000 independent financial agents, offering a wide array of annuity products, marketing assistance, and high-quality service. This partnership is expected to enhance the diversity and quality of their offerings, as articulated by Steven Murray, President and CEO of IAMS.

As the retirement demographics shift, with over 11,000 Americans retiring each day, the role of annuities as a financial safety net becomes ever more critical. Murray notes, “Annuities provide the financial backing that Baby Boomers seek, ensuring security and stability during their retirement years.”

Commitment to Compliance and Client-Centric Solutions

AEDP’s approach to supporting a wider network of professionals emphasizes compliant access to institutional-quality structured annuity products. Michael Ponticello, Managing Partner at AEDP, emphasizes that their collaboration with IAMS is centered around delivering superior support to financial professionals. “Our focus is on providing compliant access, product knowledge, and backing that empowers agents to serve their clients better,” he states.

Additionally, the partnership underscores a mutual commitment to transparency and high standards in the industry, bridging the gap between regulatory compliance and client service. Jessica Murray, Managing Partner and Chief Compliance Officer at AEDP, highlights the synergies between the two firms, enhancing their ability to serve financial professionals across the nation effectively.

Conclusion

The partnership between IAMS and AEDP marks a significant milestone in the evolution of financial services, particularly in the annuity sector. By combining their expertise and resources, they are preparing to lead the way in meeting the demands of an increasingly discerning clientele. This alliance not only strengthens the individual firms but also sets a new standard for collaboration in the financial services industry, aiming to provide the best solutions for retirement planning and income strategies.