Nationwide vs Principal Financial Group
Comprehensive side-by-side comparison of indexed universal life insurance companies
Nationwide
Founded: 1926
Columbus, Ohio
Assets
$140 billion
IUL Experience
18+ years
Products
4
Avg Cap Rate
10.25%
Key Strengths
Fortune 100 company (#72 in 2025)
Pioneer of Volatility Control Index movement
Industry-leading participation rates
Lowest cost of insurance charges in industry
Cap rates reaching 25% on certain strategies
Principal Financial Group
Founded: 1879
Des Moines, Iowa
Assets
$629 billion+ AUM
IUL Experience
5+ years
Products
2
Avg Cap Rate
9%
Key Strengths
Offers IUL Accumulation II, IUL Flex II
Enhanced caps announced January 2024
Serves 17 million
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Nationwide | Principal Financial Group |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1926 | 1879 |
| Headquarters | Columbus, Ohio | Des Moines, Iowa |
| Assets Under Management | $140 billion | $629 billion+ AUM |
| Years in IUL Business | 18+ years | 5+ years |
| Number of IUL Products | 4 | 2 |
| Typical Cap Rate Range | 6.00% - 25.00% | 8% - 10% |
| Participation Rates | 250% | 110% |
| Minimum Premium | $5,000 annual | $5,000 annual |
| Issue Ages | 0-85 years | 0-85 years |
| Underwriting Speed | 2-4 weeks standard | 2-4 weeks |