You may have noticed the monthly podcast series we began running last May.
Just in case, each month, we post a new discussion with an industry expert on a topic you want to know more about. Our debut podcast was on pending legislation that could change the face of the life insurance industry. Since then, we've spoken with the executive director of NAFA on the progress of and challenges caused by the SEC's proposed Rule 151A, the CEO of The American College on the economic bailout's impact on your business, and, most recently, NAHU's senior vice president of government affairs on the potential affect of the Obama administration's health care policy reforms.
This month, we spoke with Mike Fasano of the life expectancy underwriting firm Fasano Associates on two issues currently shaking the life settlement industry: the economy and upward trends in life expectancy tables.
These podcasts, found on our site at www.AgentsSalesJournal.com/podcasts, have been so popular amongst readers that we've decided to add another 12 conversations to our 2009 lineup.
Starting next month, www.AgentsSalesJournal.com will feature an additional podcast related to the topic of that month's special issue. In February, for instance, we'll focus on the variable and index product market. In March, we plan to bring you information on the senior market, and in April you'll find an analysis of the results of our 2009 Annuity Study.
We know that, in today's day and age, you consume your information in many different ways. Some stories lend themselves well to print. Others work better in illustration, such as charts and graphs. And still others -- especially more complex issues -- work best as audio conversations you can listen to while you work. It's just another way we strive to serve you, our readers, by responding to industry changes and bringing you the information you demand.
So if you have an idea for a podcast you'd like to hear, don't hesitate to let us know -- and check out www.AgentsSalesJournal.com/podcasts for a full archive of past discussions.
Starting the New Year with a bang
Every year begins with a declaration of improvement: "I will do better this year." Whatever it is -- exercising more, being more punctual, or drumming up more business -- the New Year represents a blank slate, a chance to psych ourselves up for success.
This year, however, Jan. 1 brings with it more uncertainty than hope. The markets have been flailing for the past few months. Banks and insurers and huge corporations are in lots of trouble. Consumers are strapped for cash, the ranks of the unemployed are growing, and nobody can say for certain when it will end -- or if it will continue to get worse before it gets better.
It's no time to throw in the towel, however. On page 12, we speak with seven industry experts on their outlook for major insurance markets such as annuities, disability, and life insurance. Their collective tone is one of guarded optimism, and their advice serves to prepare you for what's to come and help you evolve your practice to reap the benefits of opportunities.
One thing you'll find: There is no desperation; there is no giving up. There's only moving forward, doing the best you can with what you have, and looking at the challenges as opportunities to improve your business and emerge even stronger than before.
Sincerely,
Christina Pellett
ASJeditor@AgentMediaCorp.com
