Delaware Life, BlackRock Offer Bitcoin Exposure Through Fixed Indexed Annuity

Core Insights - Delaware Life Insurance Company has launched the first fixed indexed annuity linked to a Bitcoin-inclusive index, specifically the BlackRock U.S. Equity Bitcoin Balanced Risk 12% Index [1] - The new annuity product aims to provide principal protection while allowing for potential upside growth linked to Bitcoin and U.S. stocks [1][2] Product Details - The fixed indexed annuity (FIA) will offer policyholders indirect exposure to Bitcoin through an ETF within the index, ensuring that returns are capped and protecting against market declines [2][3] - The BlackRock U.S. Equity Bitcoin Balanced Risk 12% Index targets 12% volatility and incorporates cash adjustments to mitigate Bitcoin's price fluctuations, utilizing the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) which has $74.5 billion in assets under management [4] Market Context - The introduction of Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S. has led to various financial products incorporating them, with significant sales of structured notes linked to Bitcoin ETFs by major financial institutions [5] - Historically, life insurance companies have been cautious in adopting Bitcoin and related products due to market volatility, focusing instead on blockchain for operational efficiencies [6][7]