Guardian Life vs Nationwide
Comprehensive side-by-side comparison of indexed universal life insurance companies
Guardian Life
Founded: 1860
New York, NY
Assets
$1.6 billion dividend allocation 2025
IUL Experience
5+ years
Products
2
Avg Cap Rate
9%
Key Strengths
Offers IUL products with index participation features
Strong financial ratings
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
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Guardian Life | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1860 | 1926 |
| Headquarters | New York, NY | Columbus, Ohio |
| Assets Under Management | $1.6 billion dividend allocation 2025 | $140 billion |
| Years in IUL Business | 5+ years | 18+ years |
| Number of IUL Products | 2 | 4 |
| Typical Cap Rate Range | 8% - 10% | 6.00% - 25.00% |
| Participation Rates | 115% | 250% |
| Minimum Premium | $5,000 annual | $5,000 annual |
| Issue Ages | 0-85 years | 0-85 years |
| Underwriting Speed | 3-4 weeks | 2-4 weeks standard |