The Fiduciary Revolution in Life Insurance: A New Era – Steven Zeiger [Speaker, Managing Director]
Release Date: 11/20/2024
Smarter Planner Podcast
In this episode, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, talks with Vincent Randazzo, CMT, founder of ViewRight Advisors and former Head of Technical Research at CFRA, about how financial advisors can better navigate market cycles and systemic risk using a disciplined, data-driven approach. Vincent explains that traditional static asset allocation models don't account for the market cycle's stage—spring, summer, fall, or winter—and therefore miss critical opportunities to manage risk. He emphasizes the importance of active risk management, which differs from stock picking or market timing. Vincent...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode of the Smarter Planner podcast, host Belle Osvath sits down with Paul Sippil, CPA, and founder of Paul Sippel & Associates, to explore the often-overlooked world of 401(k) plan fees, transparency, and fiduciary responsibility. As a self-described “forensic retirement consultant,” Paul has reviewed thousands of Form 5500 filings, uncovering hidden fees, conflicts of interest, and even outright fraud. Paul shares how his journey began by cold-calling business owners after analyzing their publicly available 5500 forms—only to be met with surprise,...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode of the Smarter Planner podcast, host Belle Osvath talks with Dr. Christina Lynn, CFP®, AFC, CDFA, Director and Wealth Strategist at Mariner, about the transformative power of motivational interviewing in financial planning. A technique rooted in behavioral health, motivational interviewing is gaining momentum among financial professionals as a powerful tool to navigate emotionally charged client conversations and foster meaningful change. Dr. Lynn explains that financial advisors often jump too quickly into solutions, assuming expertise alone can guide clients to better...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode, host , interviews Tim Maurer, CFP®, Registered Life Planner and Chief Advisory Officer at Signature FD. Tim shares his expertise on the often-dreaded topic of sales in financial planning, offering insight into how financial professionals can approach business development in a way that aligns with their fiduciary responsibility. Tim discusses how the sales process can feel at odds with the advisory profession's core values and the challenge of reconciling the two. He also delves into his work with advisors to help them integrate business development into their...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode host Belle Osvath, CFP® interviews Matt Gelfand, PhD, CFA, CFP®, Managing Director and Global Strategist at Princeton Global. Matt brings deep insight into the age-old debate of active vs. passive investing. Matt shares how his academic background in economics initially led him to embrace the efficient market hypothesis, but his decades of real-world experience changed his view. He explains why active investing still has an important place, particularly in volatile markets, and outlines the logical and behavioral arguments supporting the idea that markets aren't...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, connects with Dr. Mary Bell Carlson, financial behavior expert and founder of the Financial Behavior Keynote Group. Dr. Carlson shares how financial advisors can deepen relationships and demonstrate value through thoughtful, engaging client events. She emphasizes that the “why” behind client events is crucial—offering more than just advice, these experiences build emotional connections, help reach resistant spouses or heirs, and allow outside speakers to reframe financial conversations in impactful ways. With humor, warmth,...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, interviews Victor Hagani, founder of Elm Wealth, about his groundbreaking research into the "overnight drift" in stock markets. Victor, a seasoned finance expert, explains how a significant portion of the stock market's returns occurs during off-hours when markets are closed, despite the higher volatility typically seen during the day. This fascinating insight into overnight trading patterns is informative for investors and financial planners. Their discussion topics include: Overnight Drift in Stock Markets: Victor reveals how after-hours...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode, host Belle Osvath CFP® talks with David Peters, CFP®, CPA. They discuss the latest tax updates and what they mean for financial advisors. David covers: IRS Updates: How the recent cut of 6,000 employees may affect processing times, refunds, and overall IRS operations. Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Reporting: What the Corporate Transparency Act requires and the ongoing debates around privacy concerns. David also discusses the penalties for non-compliance and the latest updates on reporting deadlines. Upcoming Tax Legislation: Expected changes in tax...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, speaks with Erin Botsford, CFP®, who shares valuable insights into how financial advisors can build more sustainable and lucrative practices. Erin discusses: The role of a financial director vs. a planner: How being a concierge for your client's financial needs can set you apart and create lasting, generational relationships. Why charging financial planning fees is essential: How Erin transitioned from offering free services to charging substantial planning fees and why it's crucial for high-net-worth clients. The power of identifying risk:...
info_outlineSmarter Planner Podcast
In this episode, host , interviews Jeremiah Baker, author of Confessions of a Hacker, about the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats. With 17 years in the field, Jeremiah has worked with major casinos, banks, corporations, hospitals, and software firms worldwide to identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities. Jeremiah highlights that many cyber threats remain consistent over time, but new risks have emerged with advancements in AI and automation. He discusses how AI-powered scams, phishing, ransomware, and fund transfer fraud continue impacting businesses and individuals....
info_outline In this episode, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, interviews Steven Zeiger, Managing Director at KB Financial, about the complexities of life insurance in the "fiduciary era." Steven discusses the importance of transparent and unbiased evaluation in life insurance, noting the need for more standardization and the potential for misleading information in traditional policy illustrations. He explains how research tools like those by Morningstar and Veralytic allow advisors to compare policies against industry benchmarks to accurately assess premiums, internal costs, and cash value projections.
Steven highlights the value of independent, third-party research to avoid conflicts of interest and prioritize clients' best interests. He explains how data-driven insights and tools can identify hidden costs and potential policy failures often not apparent in standard illustrations. This information enables advisors to provide fiduciary-grade service, ensuring clients receive the best outcome for their financial goals. Steven also emphasizes the importance of research-based evaluation, encouraging planners to utilize these tools to enhance transparency and trust.
Video of Life Insurance Analysis:https://youtu.be/8GpzzMWHbuE
Ways to connect with Steven:
Steven's Cell: 917-750-6201
Text:
- M - More questions,
- T - Trust & estate article
- I - Introduce me to someone,
- S - Speaking engagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenzeiger/
Website: https://www.kbfinancialcompanies.com/
---
The Smarter Planner podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes. Phil Asta and FPA NCA do not endorse any of the individuals or services mentioned.