Approved IAR CE Courses

This course is about the new world of environment, social and governance (ESG) investing. The course begins with a short history of the ESG movement, including the role that international and domestic governing bodies have played in jumpstarting ESG investing. The different types of ESG ratings are compared and explained. Additionally, the course describes the kinds of ESG securities offered, as well as ways to choose an ESG portfolio which aligns with an investor's values. Finally, the course lays out the potential risks and benefits of ESG funds and common ESG investmentphilosophies, such as impact investing and sustainable investing.

This course will review recent Anti-Money Laundering developments including regulatory guidance from the securities and banking industries, FATF cryptocurrency guidance, enforcement actions, and several case studies. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of the front-end of the regulatory environment and how money laundering is detected and prosecuted in modern cases.

This course examines the annuity concept and explains what an annuity is and how it works:-The mechanics of the accumulation and payout phases of an annuity, including sample calculations-Settlement options and their appropriate uses-Annuity taxation: Federal income tax treatment of premature withdrawals; lump-sum distributions; and periodic payments.-A comparison of the different annuity contracts available with respect to client suitability.Variable and fixed annuities are discussed in terms of single vs. periodic premium, immediate vs. deferred, qualified vs. non-qualified, and settlement options.

This course introduces investment adviser representatives to the fundamentals of annuities and their role in retirement planning. Learners will explore the parties involved in an annuity contract, the different types of annuities, and the phases of accumulation and annuitization. The course also examines payment options, contract riders such as income and long-term care benefits, and how these features can be matched to client needs. By the end, participants will have the knowledge to explain annuity structures, evaluate their suitability, and help clients make informed decisions about using annuities as part of their financial strategy.

This course provides investment professionals with an in-depth understanding of the key provisions and features found in annuity contracts. Learners will explore common elements and how they impact both consumers and insurers. The course also examines administrative charges, commissions, and state premium taxes, as well as the role of financial strength ratings, reserves, and guaranty associations in safeguarding annuity owners. By mastering these concepts, participants will be able to evaluate annuity products more effectively and guide clients in making informed decisions about their retirement planning.

This course provides an in-depth examination of annuities, designed to enhance the proficiency of Investment Advisor Representatives in incorporating these financial instruments into retirement planning. Participants will learn about various types of annuities'including fixed, variable, and indexed'and their respective uses, enabling them to offer tailored advice based on individual client needs. The curriculum also delves into the structural features of annuity contracts, such as accumulation phases, annuitization, death benefits, surrender charges, and additional riders. By covering both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of annuities, the course prepares advisors to make informed, strategic decisions that optimize retirement outcomes for their clients. This comprehensive approach ensures that advisors are well-equipped to handle the complexities of annuity products in today's diverse financial landscape.

This course provides investment professionals with a comprehensive overview of how annuities are taxed during accumulation, payout, and at transfer to beneficiaries. Learners will explore the distinctions between qualified and non-qualified annuities, key concepts such as tax deferral, exclusion ratios, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and the impact of early withdrawals and penalties. The course also addresses special tax provisions, including 1035 exchanges, long-term care exceptions, and beneficiary rules, equipping advisers to guide clients toward strategies that maximize tax efficiency while avoiding costly mistakes.