Episodes

  • Does an Income Annuity Just Give Your Money Back?
    Dec 21 2024

    In this episode, we tackle a common concern about income annuities: “Isn’t the annuity company just giving me my money back?” Marty Becker, founder of Atlas Financial Strategies, breaks down this objection and explains why income annuities are a powerful tool for retirement planning.

    You’ll learn:

    • Why annuities provide guaranteed income that lasts a lifetime.
    • How they protect you from risks like market downturns, low interest rates, and outliving your savings.
    • Why annuities allow you to spend more confidently in retirement compared to traditional withdrawal strategies.

    If you’ve ever wondered how income annuities work or whether they’re right for you, this episode is packed with practical insights and simple explanations.

    Listen now and discover how annuities can transform your retirement strategy!

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    15 mins
  • The Hedgehog Retirement Strategy
    Dec 13 2024

    Are you tired of overcomplicated retirement plans that seem to go nowhere? In this episode, we explore the timeless fable of the Fox and the Hedgehog and how it applies to building a smarter, more focused retirement strategy.

    Discover why traditional retirement planning often resembles the fox—clever, yet scattered—and why adopting the Hedgehog Strategy can help you:

    • Stay focused on your financial goals.
    • Assign a clear purpose to every dollar you save.
    • Build a plan that’s simple, reliable, and effective.

    From income annuities to long-term growth strategies, Marty breaks down how to implement this approach for lasting financial confidence. Whether you’re planning for retirement or looking to fine-tune your current strategy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

    Tune in now to start simplifying your retirement with the Hedgehog Strategy!

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    8 mins
  • Using Annuities for ROTH Conversions
    Dec 6 2024

    In this episode of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, we explore a real-life case study of a recently retired couple with $2.5 million in savings. Discover how we used a combination of annuities and Roth conversions to:

    • Cover income gaps with guaranteed payments.
    • Reduce future tax burdens and protect Medicare premiums.
    • Free up extra cash for vacations, big purchases, or emergencies.

    Whether you’re navigating retirement with $500,000 or $5 million, the math behind this strategy works. Listen in to see how this approach could improve your financial security and flexibility, even in the toughest market conditions.

    Tune in now and learn how annuities and Roth conversions can work for you!

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    19 mins
  • CDs Maturing Soon? How to Avoid Reinvestment Risk and Find Higher Rates
    Nov 29 2024

    With $2.5 trillion in CDs set to mature over the next year, many savers are facing tough decisions. Should you renew at lower rates? Or are there better options for your money?

    In this episode, Marty Becker dives into:

    • Why reinvestment risk is a major challenge for CD holders
    • How MYGAs (Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities) stack up against CDs
    • Simple strategies to lock in higher rates and avoid common pitfalls

    If your CD is maturing soon, don’t miss this essential guide to protecting your savings and earning more with less risk.

    Tune in now and take control of your financial future!

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    12 mins
  • Are Inflation Adjusted Annuities Worth The Cost?
    Nov 22 2024

    Inflation has been hitting hard, and it’s left many retirees wondering: Should you choose an annuity with inflation protection, or go for the higher starting income of a traditional annuity?

    In this episode, Marty Becker dives into the numbers to help you make sense of this important decision. You’ll learn:

    • How traditional and inflation-adjusted annuities compare in income.
    • The break-even point where inflation protection might pay off.
    • Key factors to consider based on your retirement goals.

    Marty breaks it all down in simple terms, using real-world examples to show what’s at stake. If you’ve been debating the pros and cons of inflation-adjusted annuities, this is the episode for you.

    Ready to find out which option fits your retirement plan? Tune in now to get the answers you need!

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    8 mins
  • 10% Annuity Withdrawals or Interest Accumulation?
    Nov 14 2024

    In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most important decisions for annuity holders: choosing the right withdrawal strategy. Marty Becker breaks down the pros and cons of two popular options in multi-year guaranteed annuities (MIGAs)—taking a 10% annual withdrawal or allowing your interest to accumulate for a larger payout later.

    You'll learn:

    • The basics of monthly, 10%, and interest accumulation withdrawals
    • How different strategies align with your financial goals
    • A real-world comparison of how interest rates impact your maximum withdrawal options
    • When it might make sense to choose a lower interest rate for more flexibility

    If you're wondering which approach best suits your needs, this episode will help you make an informed decision to maximize your annuity’s potential. Tune in to gain practical tips and insights that could impact your financial future.

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    8 mins
  • Ibexis Fixed Indexed Annuity Review
    Nov 6 2024

    In this episode, Marty Becker, founder of Atlas Financial Strategies, dives into the details of the Ibexis Fixed Indexed Annuity. Whether you've been offered this product or are researching options for safe growth, this review covers everything from its unique features to how it stacks up against other annuities on the market.

    Join Marty as he explores the Ibexis annuity’s standout characteristics, including the rare bailout feature, flexible floor rate options, and potential for growth without risking your principal. He also breaks down key terms like "tracking value" and "declared rate," helping you understand how this annuity can fit into your retirement strategy. With balanced insights on the pros and cons, this episode will leave you with a clear picture of what the Ibexis annuity offers and whether it could be the right choice for your financial goals.

    Tune in to get Marty’s independent take on the Ibexis Fixed Indexed Annuity and find out if this unique product aligns with your retirement needs!

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    17 mins
  • The Top 5 Benefits of Owning an Index Annuity
    Nov 1 2024

    This week, we’re diving into the Top 5 Benefits of Index Annuities and the main reasons they’re becoming more popular. Based on feedback from real annuity owners, here are some key benefits they’re raving about:

    • Longer Lives, Less Worry: Lifetime income keeps essentials covered—no matter how long you live.
    • Market Protection: Steady income without stressing about the stock market.
    • Fraud Protection: Reduced vulnerability in retirement years.

    If you’ve been wondering how an index annuity could provide a safer, more confident retirement, don't miss this episode.

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    12 mins