The Dow closed above 50,000 for the first time on Feb. 6, gaining over 1,200 points in a single day. The milestone reflects strong investor optimism — but for Americans nearing retirement, it also raises an important question: What should you do next? If you’re nearing retirement, here’s what this market milestone should mean for your financial planning. The Dow Reaches Record Highs: Why That Matters for Near-Retirees “As markets reach new highs, advisors and their clients often take the time to assess ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted operating income increased by 31% year-over-year in Q4 2025, marking the highest level in four years [5][25] - Full-year adjusted income from operations available to common shareholders was over $1.5 billion, a 23% improvement compared to 2024 [25] - Net income available to common stockholders for Q4 was $745 million, or $3.80 per diluted share [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Annuities sales volumes increased by 25% in 2025, with RILA sales up 35% and fixed annuity sales up 11% [11][12] - Group Protection delivered operating earnings of $493 million for the full year, up 16% from 2024, with a margin improvement to 9% [28] - Life Insurance operating earnings improved to $77 million for Q4, compared to an operating loss of $15 million in the prior year [36] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group Protection now accounts for approximately 25% of business unit earnings, up from 18% in 2023 [45] - Spread-based annuity account balances increased to 30%, up from 25% in 2023 [46] - Average account balances in Retirement Plan Services increased nearly 9% year-over-year to $124 billion [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on increasing risk-adjusted returns, reducing volatility, and growing its franchise through strategic realignment and operational execution [7][10] - There is an emphasis on products with higher risk-adjusted margins and stable cash flows to strengthen business resilience [9][14] - The company aims to maintain expense discipline while investing strategically to support long-term priorities [8][41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver long-term value despite potential market volatility [10][22] - The company is committed to improving the quality and durability of earnings while focusing on profitable growth [21][36] - The outlook for 2026 includes expectations for continued earnings growth and capital return to shareholders [49] Other Important Information - The investment portfolio delivered an annualized return of nearly 12% for Q4, exceeding targets [24][42] - The company completed the consolidation of several Life Insurance captive entities, which is expected to improve free cash flow [43][69] - Holding company liquidity ended the year at approximately $1.1 billion, providing financial flexibility for future capital returns [44] Q&A Session Summary Question: Capital return guidance and buybacks - Management indicated that capital deployment priorities include maintaining excess capital in operating entities and preparing for optimal handling of preferred securities [52][54] Question: Excess cash and potential uses - The excess cash at the holding company is primarily aimed at managing preferred securities and increasing capital return to shareholders [56] Question: Life Insurance captive consolidation impact - The consolidation of captives is expected to reduce reserve financing costs and improve the free cash flow profile of the legacy Life block [68][69]

Summary of Apollo Global Management Conference Call Company Overview - Apollo Global Management (NYSE: APO) was founded in 1990, initially focusing on private equity, and has evolved into a diversified global alternative asset manager with over $900 billion in assets under management, making it one of the five largest alternative managers globally [4][4][4]. Industry Insights - The current macroeconomic environment is characterized by a resilient economy, potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, and an anticipated acceleration in IPO and M&A activities [4][4]. - Despite a robust market, there are concerns about tight spreads, heightened geopolitical risks, and muted private equity realizations [5][5]. - The private credit market is viewed as a significant growth area, with a broader definition encompassing various forms of financing beyond traditional direct lending [11][11][13]. Key Themes and Strategic Priorities - Apollo's leadership emphasizes the importance of origination in maintaining growth momentum, focusing on sectors such as the global industrial renaissance and public-private convergence [20][20][21]. - The firm has invested billions in origination platforms to enhance its capital solutions across investment-grade and non-investment-grade markets [19][19][19]. - The private credit asset class is estimated to be around $40 trillion, indicating a vast opportunity beyond direct lending [13][13]. Private Credit Market - The private credit market has evolved significantly, with a focus on non-investment grade financing, which has grown from zero to approximately $2 trillion [12][12]. - Apollo's strategy includes educating investors about the broader opportunities within private credit, which encompasses commercial real estate debt, residential real estate debt, and asset-backed securities [13][13][16]. AI Infrastructure Financing - The market for AI infrastructure financing is projected to require $5-7 trillion over the next five years, with Apollo focusing on providing capital in a structurally advantageous manner [31][31][33]. - The firm aims to avoid speculative investments and instead seeks opportunities where it can add bespoke value [32][32]. Retirement Services and Athene - Athene, Apollo's retirement services business, is positioned as a market leader in fixed annuities, benefiting from a strong balance sheet and low operational costs [43][43]. - The competitive landscape is becoming more crowded, but Apollo believes it can maintain its market share through its diverse capital-raising channels [44][44][46]. - The firm is exploring growth opportunities in international markets, particularly in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Australia, as well as expanding its presence in the UK [51][51][52]. Future Outlook - Apollo is optimistic about its growth trajectory, particularly in private credit and retirement services, and is focused on maintaining quality and excellence in its operations [26][26][29]. - The firm anticipates a successful fundraising for Fund XI, aiming to replicate the success of previous funds with a target of $22 billion to $25 billion [40][42]. Conclusion - Apollo Global Management is navigating a complex macroeconomic landscape while focusing on strategic growth areas such as private credit and retirement services. The firm is committed to maintaining its competitive edge through innovation in capital solutions and expanding its global footprint [4][4][19][43].

Financial Highlights - Cincinnati Financial Corporation reported a fourth-quarter 2025 net income of $676 million, or $4.29 per share, a 67% increase from $405 million, or $2.56 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2024 [5] - Full-year 2025 net income reached $2.393 billion, or $15.17 per share, compared to $2.292 billion, or $14.53 per share, in 2024 [5] - The company experienced a 10% increase in earned premiums for the fourth quarter of 2025, totaling $2.592 billion, and a 12% increase for the full year, reaching $9.983 billion [2][5] - Investment income, net of expenses, rose by 9% in the fourth quarter to $305 million and by 14% for the full year to $1.165 billion [2][5] Insurance Operations Highlights - The insurance operations achieved a combined ratio of 85.2% for the fourth quarter of 2025, marking one of the best performances in the last decade, and a full-year combined ratio of 94.9%, within the long-term goal of 92% to 98% [9][10] - Total property casualty net written premiums increased by 9% for the year, surpassing $10 billion for the first time in the company's history [10][11] - The life insurance subsidiary reported a 16% increase in net income to $106 million for the fourth quarter of 2025 [10][11] Investment and Balance Sheet Highlights - The book value per share increased by 15% to $102.35 at December 31, 2025, bolstered by a 14% increase in net pretax investment income [14][33] - Total investments reached $31.783 billion, up from $28.378 billion a year earlier, and total assets increased to $41.002 billion from $36.501 billion [33][34] - The company reported a 9% rise in fourth-quarter 2025 pretax investment income, primarily due to a 10% increase in interest income from fixed-maturity securities [34]

Core Insights - A significant majority of 401(k) participants (93%) desire guaranteed lifetime income options in their retirement plans, yet most current plans do not provide these options [2][8] - Effective decumulation strategies are essential for retirees to manage their savings without depleting them, balancing current living needs with long-term financial security [3][4] Decumulation Challenges - Transitioning from saving to spending in retirement presents challenges, including market volatility, taxes, and healthcare costs, leading to potential over-withdrawing or overly conservative strategies [4] - The absence of a structured income during retirement creates uncertainty for retirees, complicating their financial planning [4] Building a Sustainable Income - Establishing a guaranteed income floor through reliable sources like Social Security or pensions is a foundational step in creating a decumulation strategy [5] - Implementing a bucket strategy allows retirees to manage short-term and long-term financial needs effectively, using cash or bonds for immediate needs and equities for growth [6] Income Tools and Options - Fixed annuities are a popular choice for retirees seeking guaranteed income, with 90% of 401(k) participants open to using them for steady retirement income [7] - Lifetime income can also be derived from various sources, including Social Security, pensions, and well-planned withdrawal strategies, emphasizing the importance of a reliable income floor [8]

Group 1 - Cincinnati Financial Corporation plans to release its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results on February 9, 2026, after the close of regular trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market [1] - A conference call to discuss the results will be held on February 10, 2026, at 11 a.m. ET, with access available via the company's investor website [2] - Cincinnati Financial Corporation primarily offers business, home, and auto insurance through The Cincinnati Insurance Company and its two standard market property casualty companies [3]

Group 1 - The article discusses the implications of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) for retirees, emphasizing their role in increasing taxable income and reducing retirement account balances [3][4]. - RMDs are calculated by dividing the account balance as of December 31 of the previous year by a life expectancy factor from IRS tables, which can complicate financial planning for retirees [4]. - The article highlights that the annuities in question are qualified annuities purchased with funds from tax-deferred retirement accounts, making RMDs applicable [5]. Group 2 - One suggested strategy for managing RMDs is to withdraw from the annuity accounts upon maturity, which may help smooth out tax liabilities if current tax brackets are lower than expected future brackets [5][6]. - The effectiveness of this withdrawal strategy depends on the retiree's current tax bracket compared to future expectations, necessitating careful financial analysis [6].

Core Insights - A survey by Thrivent indicates that 53% of non-retirees fear AI will reduce job opportunities, negatively impacting their retirement prospects [1] - 45% of respondents believe that changes in the type of work due to AI will also adversely affect their retirement [1] Investment Strategies - Diversifying investments across various asset classes and industries is recommended to mitigate risks associated with AI's uneven effects on market performance [3] - Fixed annuities are suggested as a stable income source for retirement, independent of job security or stock performance [4] - Multiple income sources, such as side gigs or passive income, can enhance financial resilience in retirement [4] Retirement Planning - Flexibility in retirement plans is crucial due to the uncertain impact of AI on careers and income [5] - Options like phased retirement or part-time employment can help maintain income and protect against career disruptions [5] - Early saving is emphasized as a key strategy for maximizing retirement growth through compound interest [5]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - F&G reported adjusted net earnings of $165 million, or $1.22 per share, in the third quarter, with alternative investment income at $67 million, or $0.48 per share, below management's long-term expected return [14][15] - Adjusted return on assets (ROA) on a last 12-month basis was 92 basis points, stable compared to the previous year and sequential quarters [16] - Adjusted return on equity (ROE), excluding AOCI, was 8.8%, consistent with the sequential quarter [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - F&G achieved record assets under management (AUM) of $71.4 billion before Flow Reinsurance, a 14% increase year-over-year [5] - Gross sales for the third quarter reached $4.2 billion, with core sales at $2.2 billion, slightly above previous quarters [6] - Indexed annuities contributed $1.7 billion in sales for the quarter, while Pension Risk Transfer (PRT) sales exceeded $500 million [7][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported strong demand for retirement savings products, particularly fixed annuities, driven by demographic trends and macroeconomic volatility [10] - The investment portfolio remains diversified and high quality, with 96% of fixed maturities being investment grade [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - F&G is transitioning to a more fee-based, higher margin, and capital-light business model, leveraging its position as a leading distributor of annuities and life insurance [20] - The company aims to grow AUM by 50% and expand adjusted ROA to 133 to 155 basis points by 2026 [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver strong returns and achieve long-term shareholder value [13][62] - The competitive landscape remains active, particularly in the PRT market, with expectations for continued momentum [48] Other Important Information - F&F, the majority owner, plans to distribute approximately 12% of F&G's outstanding shares to its shareholders, increasing F&G's public float from 18% to 30% [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Capital allocation priorities amidst stock pressure - Management emphasized the focus on growing the fixed index annuity business and owned distribution, with share buybacks being a low priority due to the upcoming share distribution [26][28] Question: Variable investment income expectations - Management indicated that variable investment income is expected to fluctuate, with a near-term run rate in the high single digits [30] Question: Exposure to private letter-rated assets - Management reassured that their portfolio is well-positioned and comfortable, with minimal exposure to private credit concerns [32] Question: Alternatives performance breakdown - Management noted that alternative investments had mixed performance, with LPs performing better than direct lending [35] Question: Operating leverage and expense management - Management expects continued improvement in the operating expense ratio, aiming to reduce it from 60 to 50 basis points by year-end 2025 [56] Question: Comments on F&F's share distribution - Management viewed the increase in free float as a positive development, enhancing institutional ownership and confidence in F&G's future [59]

Financial Performance - Jackson Financial Inc reported GAAP earnings of $65 million, or $092 per diluted common share[8, 9] - Adjusted Operating Earnings were $433 million, or $616 per diluted common share[9] - The company returned $210 million of capital to common shareholders through dividends and repurchases[9] - Free cash flow was $216 million, representing cash distributed to JFI net of JFI expenses[10] Capital and Liquidity - Jackson National Life Insurance Company (JNL) estimated risk-based capital (RBC) ratio was 579%[9] - Holding company cash and highly liquid securities exceeded $750 million[14] - After-Tax Statutory Capital Generation was $579 million[51] Sales and Business Segments - Retail annuity sales increased by 22% compared to the second quarter of 2025[11] - Record RILA sales reached $21 billion, a 49% increase from the second quarter of 2025 and a 28% increase from the third quarter of 2024[31] - PPM America's assets under management (AUM) increased by 18% compared to the third quarter of 2024[31]