Security Benefit has introduced EliteDesigns II, the next variable annuity product in its EliteDesigns series.
The firm's latest variable annuity (VA) fuses 280 investment options within a tax-deferred platform and is geared toward independent broker-dealers and registered reps. In addition to traditional stock and international portfolios, EliteDesigns II incorporates more than 60 alternative strategies and more than 50 fixed income offerings designed to alleviate market volatility.
"The wide array of investment options from 39 highly respected asset managers provides a flexible tool set for helping to manage stock-market volatility and rebuilding retirement savings without exposing investment earnings to new and higher federal taxes on investment income," said Doug Wolff, president of Topeka, Kan.-based Security Benefit, in a statement. Security Benefit is indirectly controlled by Guggenheim Partners LLC.
Other features of EliteDesigns products include no trading limits or redemption fees on a large number of portfolios that are geared toward actively managed strategies. There are also no surrender or withdrawal charges or annual policy fees.
Saybrus Partners Inc., a Phoenix Cos. Inc., subsidiary, has made two personnel appointments. D. Steve Shirley, CLU, CHFC, is now managing
director, national accounts, and Geoffrey F. Ward, CLU, CHFC, CFP, was appointed managing director, business development.