Banks Vs Insurance Companies – Which One Is Safer?
People around the globe are asking themselves if they should put their money into banks or insurance companies. In a global economy, banks have institutions all over the world just like insurance companies. Banks share information and process loans, lend cash, make deals, and keep the flow of money moving faster than ever before. Insurance companies on the other hand, tend to be more conservative with their investments. Here are some of the differences.
Bank Pros:
One of the nice things about putting money with your bank is that they probably have a local branch for you to drive or walk to. It is easy to process your deposits, get cash, and to get a loan for a vehicle or a home. If you buy a certificate of deposit, you can simply drive down to your local branch and talk to a live person who will assist you with new products and rates. Banks now are taking their business online and you can process many of the same features as your local branch from the comfort of your home. Banks in the United States are covered up to $250,000 by the FDIC.
Bank Cons:
One does not have to look very hard to see the cons in the banking system. The 1920’s crash, the Savings and Loans Crisis, and the 2008 Market Crash are due to Banks, Wall Street insiders, and Government not looking out for the people. These crashes were due to one thing, “Greed.” Ever heard of the phrase “To Big to Fail?” Banks can also leverage money. If you give them $1, they can loan out $30 or more.
The FDIC Seized:
25 Banks in 2008
140 Banks in 2009
157 Banks in 2010
11 Banks just in January of 2011
The FDIC is broke and the American Tax payer is on the hook for all of these banks because of their loan practices.
Insurance Company Pros:
When you purchase an annuity or a cash value life insurance policy, your money is invested in to Bonds and Options. Insurance companies are required by law to keep a certain amount of their money into reserves. These companies are heavily regulated federally and by the individual states. Insurance companies helped bail out the Government and Wall Street firms in the 1920’s.
Insurance Company Annuities and Cash Value Life Insurance are protected:
Each state offers a State Guarantee Association. What that means to you is that anywhere from$100,000-$250,000 of your deposits are also covered, just like the banks. In addition, your money will have protection from creditors (State Limits Apply) and your money in annuities and cash value life insurance will go probate free to your loved ones or beneficiaries.
Insurance Company Cons:
Depending on the type of policy you have, you may have early surrender charges should you take money out of your policy early similar to a bank certificate of deposit. Annuities are retirement vehicles and if you take money out prior to attaining 59 A�, you may have an IRS penalty.
In the end, you have to make the best choice that fits your needs. Make sure to check your bank rating and insurance company rating prior to putting your money into either institution. Banks may come or go, but insurance companies could be a good alternative for your safe and conservative investments.