North American and Annexus Introduce NYSE GEARS Index in Partnership with Deutsche Bank and ICE Data Indices
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Dec. 23, 2025 — North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® (North American), part of Sammons® Financial Group and a major provider of fixed index annuities (FIAs) in the U.S., has partnered with Annexus to launch the NYSE® GEARS Index, enhancing the Secure HorizonSM FIA suite. This new index aims to navigate the evolving global equity markets while minimizing volatility through a proprietary risk management framework.
Introduction of the NYSE GEARS Index
The NYSE GEARS Index is strategically designed to adapt to dynamic market conditions, allowing for a reallocation of equity performance. Through its growth-oriented approach, the Index serves to optimize returns while actively managing risk. According to Anil Atluri, Head of the Institutional Client Group Americas at Deutsche Bank, "We are very pleased to collaborate with North American, Annexus, and ICE Data Indices to bring the NYSE® GEARS Index to the North American Secure Horizon suite of FIAs."
Significance of ICE Data Indices
The NYSE GEARS Index has been formulated by Deutsche Bank AG, a frontrunner in Equity Risk Premia research since the early 2000s, and is managed by ICE Data Indices, LLC (IDI), an affiliate of Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE). This collaboration enhances the credibility and operational robustness of the NYSE GEARS Index, which aims to provide agents and clients with greater customization and flexibility.
Benefits of the NYSE GEARS Index
Rob TeKolste, President of Sammons Independent Annuity Group, expressed enthusiasm about the Index, noting, "This new Index, when paired with a Secure Horizon product, can help offer customers greater growth potential in an increasingly volatile market." Moreover, Tom Haines, EVP of Capital Markets and Index Solutions at Annexus, highlighted that the NYSE GEARS Index enhances diversification for agents and their clients.
- Growth Orientation: Focuses on capital appreciation.
- Risk Management: Employs a proprietary process to mitigate volatility.
- Low Correlation: Complements existing indices within the Secure Horizon portfolio.
Future Collaborations
Preston Peacock, Head of ICE Data Indices, commented on the expanded partnership, stating, “We are excited to expand our relationship with Annexus with the inclusion of the NYSE® GEARS Index in the Secure Horizon FIA suite and enter into a new collaboration with Deutsche Bank and North American.” This collaboration signals a robust commitment to enhance index offerings in the financial market.
For more information on the NYSE GEARS Index, visit NYGEARS on the NYSE website.
About Intercontinental Exchange (ICE)
Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE) is a Fortune 500 company that specializes in designing and operating digital networks connecting individuals to various opportunities. ICE is known for providing crucial financial technology, data services across major asset classes, and enabling efficient capital raising and risk management.
Conclusion
The integration of the NYSE GEARS Index within the North American Secure Horizon FIA suite signifies a proactive approach to wealth management in an unpredictable economic landscape. As the financial markets continue to evolve, innovative solutions like those from ICE and its partners will be essential in helping investors navigate risks and seize opportunities.