Life and Pensions Insurance Market Updates
Cayuga Health cuts retiree life insurance
30 Dec 2025
Cayuga Health will terminate a $4,000 life insurance benefit for about 350 retirees effective January 1, 2026. The coverage, provided through Cayuga Medical Center and Unum, can be maintained only if retirees convert to individual policies and pay premiums themselves, estimated at around $300 per year. Centralus Health, Cayuga’s parent company, cited financial pressures for the decision. Staff will assist retirees in exploring their coverage options.
JAB Insurance to acquire Utmost Group’s Life and Pensions business
29 Dec 2025
JAB Insurance has signed an agreement to acquire Utmost Group’s Life and Pensions (ULP) business, a UK platform managing over £5 billion in assets and serving around 290,000 pensioners. ULP, active in the UK Bulk Purchase Annuity market, has completed 11 full buy-ins valued at £311 million since 2024. JAB Insurance views the acquisition as a strategic entry into the UK market, supporting long-term financial security for policyholders. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Both companies emphasized continuity in leadership and leveraging JAB’s capital and expertise to enhance value for pension scheme members.
Warburg Pincus explores sale of IndiaFirst Life stake – report
29 Dec 2025
Warburg Pincus is reportedly exploring the sale of its 26% stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance, valuing the Mumbai-based insurer at over $1.1 billion. The stake, held via its affiliate Carmel Point Investments India, has attracted interest from strategic investors, private equity firms, and at least one South Korean life insurer. The potential divestment follows a previously planned IPO that was paused due to market volatility. The move comes amid recent regulatory changes allowing up to 100% foreign investment in Indian insurers, easing operational and governance restrictions. This follows Warburg Pincus’ earlier stake sale discussions for SBI General Insurance earlier in 2025.
2025 Top 5 Life Insurance Stories: IUL takes center stage as lawsuits pile up
25 Dec 2025
Indexed universal life (IUL) insurance drove strong sales in 2025, but controversies and lawsuits overshadowed growth. Critics point to misleading illustrations, undisclosed costs, and complex product structures, as seen in high-profile cases like Kyle Busch vs. Pacific Life and a Vermont lawsuit against National Life. Despite these challenges, IUL remains popular due to features like a zero-floor guarantee that attracts risk-averse clients. Regulatory actions affected some insurers, including Sentinel Security Life and Atlantic Coast Life, though some restrictions were later reversed. Industry experts emphasize the need for better consumer education, transparent illustrations, and responsible product design.
