Rating Underscores Stability as the Firm Celebrates Strong Momentum in MYGA Debut

AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) of Knighthead Life (the brand name for Merit Life Insurance Co.) with a stable outlook.

Knighthead Life is part of Knighthead Insurance Group, a leading global provider of retirement products and solutions. The affirmation reflects Knighthead Life’s strong capital position and financial performance.

“We’re proud of our robust financial foundation,” said Edward Massaro, CEO and Chief Investment Officer of Knighthead Life. “Maintaining our financial strength and stability is our top priority; it enables us to deliver exceptional service and product innovation. These are the cornerstones of our business that we believe our partners and clients deserve.”

Staysail MYGA Sees Strong Sales in Market Debut

Knighthead Life marked its inaugural year with the launch of Staysail, a multi-year guaranteed annuity (MYGA) designed to help protect retirement savings and earn a guaranteed rate of return.

“We’re delighted by the strong market reception to Staysail in 2025,” Mr. Massaro added. “I’d like to commend our distribution partners who helped us enjoy a fantastic year and reach our annuity sales goals. We bring strong momentum into the new year and look forward to exploring additional retirement solutions to bolster our suite of products in 2026.”

Michael Brandriet, Chief Distribution Officer at Knighthead Life, said: “Advisors need partners they can rely on to help their clients retire with peace of mind. That’s where we come in. Our commitment to service, focus on product innovation, and solid financial foundation is the right combination at the right time. We are excited about the future.”

For more information about A.M. Best Company's ratings, visit ambest.com.

About Knighthead Insurance Group & Knighthead Life

Knighthead Insurance Group was founded in 2014 as a direct insurance and reinsurance provider that now manages over $7 billion of annuity reserves. In 2024, the Group launched Knighthead Life to provide retirement solutions to the U.S. market. Knighthead Life is centered on providing sound annuities, ease of doing business, and partnership. With its strong capital position and dependable products, Knighthead Insurance Group is a leader in insurance retirement solutions.

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