Nationwide’s Institutional Life Insurance team celebrates 30 years of protecting businesses

- Nationwide’s Institutional Life Insurance (ILI) business is celebrating 30 years of serving companies with corporate-owned and bank-owned life insurance solutions, supporting more than 1,100 organizations nationwide.

- More than 60,000 institutional life insurance policies are in force, reflecting ILI’s long-standing focus on client service, retention and industry expertise.

- ILI’s team of more than 50 specialists provides end-to-end support, from underwriting and implementation to ongoing case management, helping deliver long-term value for clients and financial professionals.

For three decades, Nationwide’s Institutional Life Insurance (ILI) team has provided innovative solutions and exceptional service to businesses. As ILI celebrates its 30th year as a leader in the institutional life insurance market, the organization is reflecting on a legacy built on expertise, strong client relationships and a commitment to delivering value for businesses and financial professionals alike.

The ILI team provides corporate-owned life insurance (COLI) and bank-owned life insurance (BOLI) products to businesses across the country, serving more than 1,100 organizations, including many Fortune 1000 companies. COLI and BOLI policies are lesser-known types of life insurance policies that help businesses informally fund employee benefits and cover the expenses associated with replacing insured employees. Companies purchase, own and serve as the beneficiary of COLI policies, just as banks do with BOLI policies.

“For 30 years, Nationwide has remained steadfastly committed to the institutional life insurance market, continuing to invest in this space rather than moving in and out of the market as conditions shift,” said Jessica Dowdy, president of Nationwide Institutional Life Insurance. “With more than 60,000 institutional life insurance policies in force, we understand the value of strong partnerships with financial professionals and the trust their clients place in us. As a modern mutual, Nationwide is uniquely positioned to put customers at the center of every decision, creating a level of alignment, stability and trust that sets us apart from many competitors. Our team is committed to supporting partners and clients through every stage of the process, from evaluating options and pricing products to providing ongoing service after a policy is issued.”

That commitment is backed by a team of more than 50 experienced institutional life insurance specialists who understand the unique needs of businesses and financial professionals. Their focus on service and long-term relationships has helped ILI build an impressive track record of client retention. In fact, the organization continues to serve its first business client from 30 years ago.

A key driver of ILI’s success is its end-to-end service model. From initial sales support and specialized underwriting to policy implementation and ongoing case management, the team partners closely with clients throughout the life of every policy. This comprehensive approach helps ensure a seamless experience and meaningful long-term value.

“Thirty years is an important milestone, but what truly sets us apart is our people,” Dowdy said. “ILI is made up of dedicated industry specialists who are passionate about helping clients succeed. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together and remain committed to delivering the expertise, service and solutions our clients rely on today and in the future.”

Visit https://www.nationwide.com/financial-professionals/products/institutional-life/business-life/ for more information and resources on ILI and institutional life insurance.

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09/2026

AI-powered scams are changing how consumers respond to everyday messages

- 84% of consumers are concerned about AI-enabled identity theft, but only 19% are highly confident they could identify an AI-powered scam.

- Nearly four in 10 consumers (39%) have ignored or delayed responding to a legitimate delivery notice because they suspected it was a scam.

- Just 17% of consumers have established a family code phrase that can help verify a loved one’s identity during a suspicious call or message.

Artificial intelligence is making scams more difficult to identify, and growing concern about fraud is changing how Americans respond to everyday communications, according to Nationwide’s 2026 Cybersecurity survey.

For Nationwide, the survey findings reinforce the importance of helping people understand emerging digital risks and giving them practical ways to protect their identity, information and finances.

Nearly four in 10 consumers (39%) say they have ignored or delayed responding to a legitimate delivery notice because they suspected it was a scam. Nearly three in 10 (29%) say they have done the same with a legitimate government message or bank alert.

That caution comes as consumers grapple with increasingly convincing AI-enabled threats. More than eight in 10 (84%) are concerned about criminals using AI to steal someone’s identity, yet only 19% are highly confident they could identify an AI-powered scam.

“AI is giving scammers new ways to make fraudulent messages, calls and requests look and sound more convincing,” said Helen Simonett, Vice President of Personal Property Lines at Nationwide. “Consumers are right to be cautious, but when it becomes difficult to distinguish a scam from a legitimate message, that uncertainty can also affect how people respond to important communications they rely on every day.”

AI is making scams harder to spot

As generative AI tools become more sophisticated and widely available, cybercriminals use them to create convincing phishing messages and impersonation attempts designed to appear as though they are coming from a trusted person or organization.

For consumers, that can make familiar warning signs harder to rely on. A message with polished language or a call that sounds like someone they know may no longer be enough to establish legitimacy.

The survey findings suggest consumers recognize the changing threat but may not feel confident identifying it. The gap between widespread concern about AI-enabled identity theft and confidence in spotting an AI-powered scam underscores the importance of slowing down and independently verifying unexpected requests before responding.

“Scammers often want people to react quickly, particularly when a message involves money, personal information or an apparent emergency,” said Simonett. “If something feels unusual, consumers should avoid using the contact information provided in the message and instead reach out to the person, company or institution through a phone number, website or app they already know and trust.”

What consumers can do to protect themselves

The survey shows consumers are already taking some basic precautions: 57% use strong, unique passwords and 47% use multifactor authentication to protect themselves from AI-powered scams and other cyber threats. But verification habits can provide another layer of protection.

- Verify unexpected requests through another channel. Contact the person or organization using a phone number, website or app you already know rather than information contained in the suspicious message.

- Create a family code phrase. Just 17% of consumers say their household currently has one for confirming a loved one’s identity during an urgent call or message.

- Use basic account protections. Strong, unique passwords, multifactor authentication and regular account monitoring can make accounts harder to compromise.

- Understand your coverage before you need it. Even with precautions in place, scams can happen. Know what protection your insurance provides, where there may be gaps and who to contact if you become a victim.

- Consider identity theft protection. Identity theft coverage may provide another layer of protection, including monitoring for suspicious activity involving personal information and help navigating recovery or reimbursement of certain related expenses. Nationwide identity theft protection is available for $45 per year when added to an eligible Nationwide auto, home, renters, condo or RV policy.

More findings from the 2026 Nationwide Cybersecurity survey can be found here.

Learn about Nationwide’s ID theft protection.

Moody’s changes Nationwide’s P&C business outlook to “positive”

Moody’s Ratings announced today that it has changed its outlook for Nationwide’s P&C business to “positive” from “stable.” The global ratings agency also affirmed its A1 rating for Nationwide’s financial services (NFS) business, and A2 rating for Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Nationwide’s P&C affiliates.

“Moody’s positive outlook for Nationwide P&C is encouraging recognition of the progress our associates and distribution partners are making together,” said Mark Berven, President & COO, Nationwide Property & Casualty. “Our focus on the claims experience, technical excellence, data-informed underwriting, strong governance and disciplined pricing is helping us improve profitability while delivering the specialized protection and insight our distribution partners and members need. The positive outlook from Moody’s reinforces the value of that work.”

Moody’s specifically notes that Nationwide’s P&C business has “improved its profitability in recent years by enhancing its technical capabilities and governance processes as well as taking pricing and underwriting actions.”

The affirmation of NFS reflects Nationwide’s financial services business’ “strong position and brand recognition in U.S. life insurance, annuity and retirement plan markets; its diversified distribution channels; and its consistently strong profitability.”

Moody’s noted “NFS’ strong capitalization, including a relatively high regulatory risk-based capital (RBC) ratio, and its strategic importance to Nationwide Enterprise support continued growth across its target products.”

For more information about Nationwide and Nationwide’s ratings, visit www.nationwide.com or Company Ratings.

100 years of service, 100,000 hours of impact

Nationwide employees have reached a significant milestone during the company's 100th anniversary year: contributing more than 100,000 volunteer hours to nonprofit organizations and community causes across the country.

Employees were challenged at the beginning of 2026 to volunteer 100,000 hours collectively, a goal rooted in Nationwide’s longstanding commitment to community involvement and company values that date back to Nationwide's earliest days. The milestone reflects volunteer service completed both through company-sponsored events and employees' personal commitments to causes and organizations that matter most to them.

“Thank you to every employee whose dedication and generosity helped make this achievement possible,” said Nationwide CEO Kirt Walker. “Whether volunteering through a Nationwide-sponsored event or supporting a cause close to home, each hour made a difference—and together, those individual acts of service created a lasting impact in communities across the country.”

Making a difference, one community at a time 

For the nonprofit partners, the value of those volunteer hours extends well beyond the numbers. 

The Mid-Ohio Food Collective, part of the Feeding America network, received the most volunteer support from Nationwide employees this year with more than 6,000 volunteer hours. Earlier this year, Nationwide employees came together for a service event, packing shelf-stable food boxes that helped provide meals for nearly 1,000 Central Ohio seniors experiencing food insecurity.

"Nationwide continues to be one of Mid-Ohio Food Collective's most valued partners, not only through its philanthropy but through the extraordinary commitment of its associates," said Matt Habash, president and CEO of Mid-Ohio Food Collective. "Their dedication helps expand our reach, strengthen our impact, and move us closer to a future where no one in our community has to worry about where their next meal will come from. We are deeply grateful for Nationwide's leadership and unwavering support."

United Way of Central Iowa was another top nonprofit partner for Nationwide volunteers this year. Employees contributed their time to a variety of initiatives supporting health, youth opportunities and financial security throughout the region.

"Reaching 100,000 volunteer hours is a remarkable achievement that reflects Nationwide's deep commitment to the communities it serves," said Mary Sellers, president of United Way of Central Iowa. "The time, talent and dedication of Nationwide employees have made a meaningful difference across central Iowa, and we're proud to partner with an organization that consistently invests in helping others and strengthening our community."

Building on a century of caring 

Nationwide employees have played an active role in strengthening the communities where they live and work. Today, that tradition continues through volunteerism, charitable giving and community partnerships.  

“At Nationwide, protecting what matters most extends beyond the products and services we provide. It means showing up for the communities where we live and work. Reaching 100,000 volunteer hours in our centennial year is a powerful reflection of our employees’ generosity and our longstanding commitment to caring for others,” said Walker.

This year's achievement was made possible by thousands of employee volunteers, including 146 employees who have individually contributed more than 100 hours of volunteer service.

Visit Nationwide’s giving page for more information about how the company and its associates combine philanthropy, workplace giving and volunteerism to make an impact.

Half of Current GLP-1 Users Say They May Have to Choose Between Medication and Retirement Savings

New Nationwide survey finds nearly nine in 10 users are optimistic about their long-term health, even as medication costs create new financial and retirement planning challenges.

- Half of GLP-1 users worry they may have to choose between paying for their medication and saving enough for retirement.

- Nearly six in 10 (59%) say the expected health benefits of GLP-1s make them feel less pressure to increase their retirement savings.

- More than half (57%) say those benefits make them less concerned about needing additional health or long-term care insurance in the future.

- Nearly six in 10 (59%) current users expect a financial professional to advise them on the financial impact of GLP-1 medications or other health innovations.

Columbus, OH – GLP-1 medications are giving Americans greater optimism about living longer, healthier lives, but their cost is also creating a new retirement challenge. A new survey from Nationwide Retirement Institute finds 51% of current GLP-1 users worry they may have to choose between paying for their medication and saving enough for retirement. Nearly a quarter (24%) say maintaining access to their medication is more important than increasing their retirement savings.

These tradeoffs are already affecting decisions that could have financial consequences long after today's prescription is paid. More than half (54%) of current GLP-1 users have already changed their financial behaviors, including 17% who have taken on debt, such as credit cards or loans; 14% who have withdrawn money from savings, investments or retirement accounts; and 14% who have reduced their retirement contributions or investments.

For many users, the expected health benefits may make those financial pressures feel worth it. Nearly nine in 10 (88%) current users say taking a GLP-1 makes them feel more optimistic about their long-term health, and 64% say they may retire later because taking the medication makes them feel healthier.

“Medical innovation is changing how we think about living longer and healthier, and that’s a good thing. But living longer also means your money may need to last longer,” said Kristi Martin Rodriguez, leader of the Nationwide Retirement Institute. “If what you’re spending on your health today is competing with what you’re saving for tomorrow, that needs to be part of the financial planning conversation.”

Longer, Healthier Lives Bring New Retirement Challenges

The possibility of better long-term health creates its own financial planning challenge: preparing for a potentially longer retirement. More than half (56%) of current users say they may need more money for future healthcare expenses if they live longer, while nearly half (49%) say the possibility of living longer makes them less confident in their retirement plan.

For people who continue GLP-1 treatment over time (many will for the rest of their lives), the ongoing cost of the treatment adds another layer of uncertainty. Nearly six in 10 (59%) current users worry about being able to afford GLP-1 medication in retirement. Current users whose medication is not entirely covered by insurance pay an average of $203 out of pocket each month.

Despite those concerns, the health benefits users expect from GLP-1s may be reducing the urgency they feel to prepare financially. Nearly six in 10 (59%) say the expected health benefits of GLP-1s make them feel less pressure to increase their retirement savings. Similarly, 57% say the expected health benefits make them less concerned about needing additional health or long-term care insurance in the future.

Together, these findings point to a potential planning gap: GLP-1 users are increasingly optimistic about living healthier, longer lives, even as many may be financially unprepared for the additional years those health benefits could bring.

A New Conversation for Retirement Planning

As GLP-1s and other medical innovations reshape expectations for health and longevity, they are also creating new conversations for retirement planning. Nearly six in 10 (59%) current users expect a financial professional to advise them on the financial impact of GLP-1 medications or other health innovations, yet 47% have never discussed the topic with an advisor.

“The connection between health and wealth has never been more apparent than with the rise of GLP-1 medications,” Rodriguez said. “These drugs offer the potential for a longer, healthier life, but they also come with financial implications that we can't ignore. It's time to have a conversation about how the expense and benefits of these drugs impact our financial decisions today and our long-term financial outlook. Retirement savers trying to strike this balance should be intentional in creating a plan with a trusted financial advisor that keeps saving for the future on track to prepare for a longer, healthier retirement.”

To help financial professionals guide these conversations, Nationwide’s Health Care Cost Assessment tool uses proprietary health risk analysis and updated actuarial cost data to help financial professionals and clients estimate future medical and long-term care expenses.

To learn more about the 2026 Nationwide Retirement Institute Health Care Costs in Retirement consumer survey, visit www.nationwide.com/healthcarecostshttp://www.nationwide.com/healthcarecosts. In addition, financial professionals can visit www.nationwide.com/simplifyhealthcarecostshttp://www.nationwide.com/simplifyhealthcarecosts to learn more.

For additional insights see Kristi Rodriguez’s blog and this infographic.

Methodology

The research was conducted online in the U.S. by The Harris Poll on behalf of Nationwide among 1,933 adults age 18+, including 467 Gen Z (age 18-28), 500 Millennials (age 29-44), 510 Gen Xers (age 45-60), and 456 Boomers+ (age 61+).  509 current GLP-1 users and 364 former users were also collected. The survey was conducted July 20-August 4, 2026. 

Data are weighted where necessary by age by gender, race/ethnicity, region, education, marital status (not included for Gen Z), household size, household income, and political affiliation to bring them in line with their actual proportions in the population. To ensure the national sample was representative, the data were initially weighted by generation (Gen Z 18-28, Millennials 29-44, Gen Xers 45-60, and Boomers+ 61+) and then combined into a total age 18+ group.

Data for GLP-1 current and former GLP-1 users, were weighted as needed by education, age by gender, race/ethnicity, region, household income, size of household, marital status, employment, and political party affiliation.

Respondents for this survey were selected from among those who agreed to participate in our surveys. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within ± 2.2 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. This credible interval will be wider among subsets of the surveyed population of interest.

All sample surveys and polls, whether or not they use probability sampling, are subject to other multiple sources of error which are most often not possible to quantify or estimate, including, but not limited to coverage error, error associated with nonresponse, error associated with question wording and response options, and post-survey weighting and adjustments.

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified financial services and insurance organizations in the United States. Nationwide is rated A+ by Standard & Poor’s. An industry leader in driving customer-focused innovation, Nationwide provides a full range of insurance and financial services products including auto, business, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; and pet, motorcycle and boat insurance.

This material is not a recommendation to buy, sell, hold, or rollover any asset, adopt an investment strategy, retain a specific investment manager, or use a particular account type. It does not take into account the specific investment objectives, tax and financial condition or particular needs of any specific person. Investors should work with their financial professional to discuss their specific situation.

This information is general in nature and is not intended to be tax, legal, accounting, or other professional advice. The information provided is based on current laws, which are subject to change at any time, and has not been endorsed by any government agency.

Nationwide and The Harris Poll are separate and non-affiliated companies.

Nationwide Investment Services Corporation (NISC), member FINRA, Columbus, OH. Nationwide Retirement Institute is a division of NISC.

Nationwide, Nationwide is on your side and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2026

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Golden Owl Award Returns for 2026-27, Nominations Open in 16 States

Agricultural educators do more than teach. They inspire future leaders, strengthen rural communities and help prepare the next generation to meet the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture.

To recognize those contributions, nominations are now open for the Golden Owl Award®, an annual program celebrating excellence in agricultural education. For the 2026-27 school year, the program is expanding to 16 states with the addition of Colorado. The award program will now recognize leading agricultural teachers across 16 states: California, Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Utah.

Since launching in 2018, the Golden Owl Award has recognized hundreds of agricultural educators and provided more than $800,000 in funding to support agricultural education programs, FFA chapters and student development initiatives. Last year, there were over 4,900 nominations across 15 participating states, and the program recognized 107 exceptional ag teachers including 15 “Ag Educators of the Year.”

"Every day, agricultural educators help students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to succeed," said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. "The Golden Owl Award is our way of recognizing the educators who are investing in the future of agriculture and making a lasting impact on their students and communities."

To nominate an ag teacher for the 2025-2026 Golden Owl Award, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.1

Following the nomination period, finalists in each state will be selected by a panel of judges. Each finalist will receive an individualized plaque and funding to support their school's agricultural education program. One educator in each state will ultimately be named Ag Educator of the Year and receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy along with additional funding for their program.

In addition to recognizing outstanding teachers, Nationwide supports agricultural education through contributions to participating state FFA organizations, helping provide leadership development opportunities and resources for students across the country.

The Golden Owl Award reflects Nationwide's ongoing commitment to strengthening agriculture and supporting the educators who help shape its future.

To nominate an agricultural educator or learn more about the program, visit GoldenOwlAward.com.

1 California Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 2 – Jan. 16, 2027. Colorado Golden Owl Award nomination period is May 15 – 30, 2027. Delaware Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2026. Illinois Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 20256. Indiana Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 15, 2026. Iowa Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 2 – Dec. 1, 2026. Kansas Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026. Kentucky Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 18 – Nov. 30, 2026. Maryland Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026. Missouri Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 15 – Dec. 31, 2026. Nebraska Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026. New York Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 10 – Nov. 15, 2026. Ohio Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026. Pennsylvania Golden Owl Award nomination period is Aug. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026. South Dakota Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2026. Utah Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 15, 2026.

2 Ohio finalists will receive a personalized plaque and $1,500 to fund their programs. Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year title will receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $5,000 to help fund future educational efforts for their program. Ohio’s partner, Farm Credit Mid-America, provided funding for the increase in prize money. In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program.

Nationwide tops JD Power 2026 Customer Satisfaction Study

- Nationwide’s life insurance business earned the No.1 spot in the JD Power 2026 U.S. Individual Life Insurance Study

- The company received the highest ranking for several key areas examined by the study, including trust, value for price, digital channels, flexible service options and problem resolution

- This honor comes as Nationwide’s life insurance business recently rose to No.3 in the life insurance industry based on total premium according to LIMRA

Columbus, Ohio – Nationwide, one of the strongest, most diversified, Fortune 100 insurance and financial services companies, has earned the No. 1 ranking for overall customer satisfaction among life insurance providers in the JD Power 2026 U.S. Individual Life Insurance StudySM.

In the study, Nationwide received a score of 701, well above the industry average of 649. This year’s top ranking represents an improvement of two spots from the company’s third place rank in 2025. In the study, Nationwide earned the highest ranking across several key areas that matter most to customers, including trust, value for price, digital channels, flexible service options and problem resolution.

“Our No. 1 ranking speaks to the extraordinary care our team brings to those we serve every day and the momentum we’re building as we continue to put customers at the center of everything we do,” said Holly Snyder, president of Nationwide’s life insurance business. “We are on an incredible journey to bring Nationwide’s vision of being the most trusted, most caring and most customer-focused protection company to life. This recognition is a powerful reminder that our efforts are making a difference and, most importantly, that our customers are noticing.”

This recognition comes as Nationwide’s life insurance business solidified its position in the first quarter of 2025 as the third largest life insurer in the industry based on total first-year premium according to LIMRA.

“Our momentum is coming from a diversified strategy focused on meeting evolving customer needs rather than relying on any single product or market,” Snyder said. “That means offering a wide array of solutions to a diversified client base, while staying disciplined around the customer experience. We want Nationwide to be viewed as the company that leads the industry in helping people understand what they own, how it works, and the value it provides over time. They are trusting us to protect the people and futures that matter most to them.”

The JD Power U.S. Individual Life Insurance study was fielded between July 2025 and July 2026. The official JD Power 2026 Individual Life Insurance Study press release can be viewed here.

About JD Power

JD Power delivers mission-critical data, analytics and intelligence that help businesses improve customer experience and operational performance with confidence and clarity. Using proprietary, comprehensive data – including millions of consumer interactions and authoritative automotive datasets – combined with advanced analytics, artificial intelligence and deep industry expertise, JD Power enables leaders to respond to market shifts, make smarter decisions and drive measurable performance improvements.

As an objective source of deep insight into real-world customer interactions with brands and products, JD Power provides the independent intelligence organizations need to anticipate change, strengthen customer engagement and advance growth. Learn more at JDPower.com.

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified financial services and insurance organizations in the United States. Nationwide is rated A+ by Standard & Poor’s. An industry leader in driving customer-focused innovation, Nationwide provides a full range of insurance and financial services products including auto, business, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; and pet, motorcycle and boat insurance.

For more information about Nationwide and Nationwide’s ratings, visit www.nationwide.com or Company Ratings -- Nationwide.

Subscribe today to receive the latest news from Nationwide.

Nationwide, Nationwide is on your side and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2026

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4 in 10 Investors Have Changed Their Retirement Savings or Portfolio Ahead of 2026 Midterm Elections

Three fourths of advisors agree that this election environment is more disruptive to client planning than prior cycles as they urge clients to stay focused on long-term goals

- Three in four investors say the outcome of the midterm elections could have a meaningful impact on their long-term financial plan, and four in 10 have already made changes to their retirement savings or portfolio in anticipation

- Investors' outlooks are split by party and generation: recession concerns have reversed along party lines since 2024, and Gen Z investors are more than four times as likely as Baby Boomers to have made changes ahead of the midterms

- Advisors are urging a steadier hand, with more than six in 10 saying that not changing investment strategies is the best course of action in an election year, up from 52% in 2024

Columbus, OH – The 2026 midterm elections are still weeks away, but for many investors, financial anxiety has arrived early. New data from the Nationwide Retirement Institute® reveals a nation of investors bracing for impact, split by party and generation, while their advisors urge a steadier hand.

More than half (56%) of investors say the upcoming midterm elections are making them feel more anxious. Beyond short-term nerves, 75% of investors agree the outcome of the midterm elections could have a meaningful impact on their long-term financial plan.

That anxiety is driving action. Two in five investors (40%) say they have made changes to their retirement savings or portfolio in anticipation of the midterms, including 15% who moved money into more conservative or lower-risk investments and 13% who diversified into different asset classes or sectors.

Investors are also looking to advisors for support. Nearly three in four investors (73%) want their advisor to provide guidance about the financial impacts of the midterms on their financial plan.

“Political anxiety isn’t emerging in a vacuum; it’s colliding with an economy that already has investors on edge from ongoing inflation and rising interest rates,” said Mark Hackett, chief market strategist for Nationwide’s Investment Management Group. “As a result, we’re seeing some investors move from concern to action, whether that means adjusting portfolios or seeking out strategies they believe will perform better in today’s uncertainty. However, history tells us that, while election results may contribute to volatility, they typically have little impact on long-term investment outcomes, regardless of which party gains or loses power.”

Party lines are shaping how investors see the market

Partisanship is heavily coloring investors' views on economic risk, and many believe the other side is more likely to negatively impact the economy. More than three in four investors (76%), including 77% of both Democratic and Republican investors, expect the results of the election to greatly impact the economy if the party they do not support wins. Far fewer feel the same about their own party, with divisions along party lines: 62% of Republican investors believe a win by their own party will have no economic impact at all, compared to 46% of Democratic investors.

Recession concerns have also flipped along party lines since the last major election. In 2024, more than eight in 10 Republican investors (84%) were concerned about a U.S. economic recession occurring in the following year, compared to 67% of Democratic investors. Republican investors were also more likely to believe a win by the party they least align with would trigger a recession within 12 months (44% vs. 26% of Democratic investors). Two years later, the roles have switched: nearly nine in 10 Democratic investors (89%) are concerned about a U.S. economic recession in the next 12 months, compared to 68% of Republican investors.

Today, it's investors who align with the Democratic Party and Independents who have soured on their retirement prospects. Nearly one in four Democratic investors (23%) and one in five Independent investors (20%) say they now plan to retire later due to the events of the last 12 months, compared to 12% of Republican investors.

“People typically have strong feelings about politics, and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, it’s important to recognize the influence political views can have on the decisions we make, including how we invest money for the future,” said Hackett. “This is a critical topic for financial advisors to address, helping clients avoid emotional decision-making and stay focused on the fundamental drivers of investment performance instead.”

The generational divide: Gen Z overhauls portfolios while Baby Boomers stay the course

A striking split in how younger and older investors respond to election season has emerged, with a more than fourfold gap in reported action. Nearly three in four Gen Z investors (72%) say they have made changes to their retirement savings or portfolio in anticipation of the midterm election outcomes, compared to just 17% of Baby Boomer investors. Likewise, more than a quarter of Gen Z investors (27%) report they have consulted a financial advisor specifically about election-related risks, compared to just 4% of Baby Boomers.

The upside for advisors: Gen Z is far more open to guidance. Nearly eight in 10 Gen Z investors (79%) want their advisor to provide guidance on the financial impact of the midterms, compared to 63% of Baby Boomers. That openness gives advisors an opportunity to engage younger clients early and help them build long-term habits that can reduce the risk of short-sighted, emotional decision making in the future.

Advisors urge perspective and an eye on fundamentals

Financial professionals are largely attuned to investors' sentiments: this year's elections are creating turbulence for their clients. In fact, three fourths (75%) of advisors agree that the 2026 midterm election environment is more financially disruptive to client planning than prior election cycles.

Despite their clients' concerns, advisors are far more skeptical that election outcomes should inspire portfolio changes. This gap speaks to the reassurance advisors can offer clients regardless of political affiliation. More than six in 10 advisors (63%) say it is true that, in an election year, the best course of action is to not change investment strategies, an 11-percentage-point increase from the 52% of advisors who said the same in 2024. Moreover, nearly a quarter (23%) advise strongly against such changes and are explaining the long-term risks of reactive decisions.

Rather than making reactive moves, advisors are leaning on planning strategies designed to hold up regardless of election outcomes, increasing their focus on a few key actions:

- Nine in ten (90%) have increased focus on incorporating tax-efficient retirement income solutions for clients.

- 88% are focusing on asset diversification.

- 84% are increasing focus on identifying guaranteed income solutions for clients.

“As we approach this year’s midterms, both sides of the aisle continue to inundate voters with noise. In environments like this, it’s more important than ever for advisors to reinforce sticking to long-term plans,” said Hackett. “Advisors can use this time to discuss solutions such as annuities that may help reduce market-related concerns while providing a source of guaranteed retirement income, regardless of how the political landscape evolves.”

Nationwide offers resources to help advisors facilitate conversations with their clients during election cycles, including this whitepaper by Mark Hackett, which explores how they can help investors tune out the noise of political headlines and focus on their long-term financial goals instead.

For more insights on this survey data, see our infographic.

This material is not a recommendation to buy or sell a financial product or to adopt an investment strategy. Investors should discuss their specific situation with their financial professional.

Nationwide's Retirement Institute survey, formerly known as the Nationwide Advisor Authority survey, explores critical issues confronting advisors, financial professionals and individual investors, and the innovative techniques that they need to succeed in today's complex market.

About Nationwide Retirement Institute Survey: Methodology

The Harris Poll, on behalf of Nationwide, conducted an online survey in the U. S. among 538 advisors and financial professionals and 2,029 investors ages 18+ with investable assets (IA) of $10K+, from August 24-September 11, 2026. Among the investors, there were 1,518 non-retired investors.

Respondents for this survey were selected from among those who have agreed to participate in our surveys. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data for advisors is accurate to within ± 4.2 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For investors data is accurate to within ± 3.0 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. This credible interval will be wider among subsets of the surveyed population of interest. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact news@nationwide.com.

About The Harris Poll

The Harris Poll is one of the longest running surveys in the U.S tracking public opinion, motivations and social sentiment since 1963 that is now part of Harris Insights & Analytics, a global consulting and market research firm that delivers social intelligence for transformational times. We work with clients in three primary areas: building twenty-first-century corporate reputation, crafting brand strategy and performance tracking, and earning organic media through public relations research. Our mission is to provide insights and advisory to help leaders make the best decisions possible. To learn more, please visit www.theharrispoll.com.

Nationwide Survey: Unexpected Home Costs Add Up as Homeowners Rethink How Long They’ll Stay

- Homeowners wish they had asked more about future repairs and aging home systems before buying, while insurance agents say unexpected costs are among the biggest surprises after closing.

- Two in five homeowners (40%) say they did not expect their current home to be their forever home when they bought it but now believe it will be; 38% would move if market conditions were more favorable.

- While adoption remains limited, 81% of homeowners say they would be interested in smart devices or sensors that monitor water, plumbing systems or electrical fire hazards if their insurer provided them for free.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – For many Americans, the true cost of homeownership does not become clear until after closing. New research from Nationwide finds that unexpected expenses and repairs can catch homeowners off guard, while many are staying in homes they originally expected to leave.

According to the survey, 44% of independent insurance agents say clients are most surprised by how quickly unexpected homeownership costs add up after closing. More than a third point to the cost of homeowners insurance (36%) and how often things break or need attention (34%) as common surprises while 42% say clients are surprised by how difficult it can be to find reliable contractors or service providers.

Those surprises are reflected in what homeowners wish they had known before buying:

- One in five (20%) wish they had asked what repairs or necessary upgrades would likely be needed within the next five years.

- 17% wish they had asked about the age of the roof and major systems such as HVAC, plumbing and electrical.

Insurance professionals also see opportunities for prospective buyers to better prepare. Nearly half encourage clients to ask about natural hazards or weather risks in the area (46%) and more than one-third suggest checking for signs of water damage, mold, or foundation issues (37%).

“Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions people make, but the purchase price is only part of what that home will ultimately cost,” said Helen Simonett, Vice President of Personal Property Lines at Nationwide. “Understanding the age and condition of major systems, the repairs that may be coming and the ongoing expenses associated with the property can help buyers get a more realistic picture of what homeownership may cost over time.”

For many, an unexpected forever home means planning for the long term

Those ongoing costs may matter even more as homeowners remain in their properties longer than they originally expected.

Two in five homeowners (40%) say they did not expect their current home to be their forever home when they purchased it but now believe it will be. At the same time, 38% say they would move if market conditions were more favorable, rising to 52% in urban areas and 64% for Millennials.

Many are already adapting their homes for a longer stay. Sixty-four percent have made or plan to make changes to support living there long term. Most common modifications include energy efficiency/weather-related resilience upgrades, improved stairway and entryway lighting, and bathroom safety modifications.

Staying longer also means living with a home's aging systems, maintenance needs and potential risks for more years than originally planned. Forty-three percent of homeowners say they follow a preventive maintenance schedule to avoid future problems, while 19% typically wait until an issue occurs.

“Homeowners who thought they would move after a few years may now be looking at their homes very differently,” said Simonett. “If you’re going to stay longer than planned, it becomes even more important to understand what parts of the home may need attention over the next several years and take steps now to help prevent avoidable damage.”

Homeowners are interested in technology that can catch problems earlier

For homeowners staying longer and managing the ongoing costs of homeownership, catching problems early can help prevent an unexpected repair from becoming an even bigger expense.

Smart-home technology offers one way to do that, but devices designed specifically to monitor home risks are not yet widely used.

According to the survey, only:

- 25% of homeowners currently have water leak detectors or automatic shut-off systems;

- 15% have devices that monitor for electrical fire hazards.

Yet 81% say they would be interested in using devices or sensors that monitor water, plumbing systems or electrical fire hazards if their insurer provided them for free.

Agents also see the value of these tools in preventing costly damage. Water leak detectors top the list of prevention tools agents believe could have the greatest impact on reducing costly home claims (39%), while 30% point to automatic water shut-off systems.

“Some insurance providers, such as Nationwide, are helping homeowners proactively monitor for potential hazards by offering devices like LeakBot for water leak detection and Ting for electrical fire protection services — often at no additional cost to eligible home policyholders,” said Simonett. “These tools make it easier to identify problems early and help prevent damage and potentially dangerous situations.”

Whether homeowners expect to move or stay for the long term, planning for what a home will cost to own and maintain is just as important as planning for what it costs to buy. Keeping up with major systems and catching problems early can help homeowners avoid some of the financial surprises that come after closing.

More findings from the 2026 Nationwide Homeowners survey can be found here.

Methodology

Nationwide commissioned Edelman Intelligence to conduct a 20-minute, online survey between July 10 and July 29, 2026. As a member of CASRO in good standing, Edelman Intelligence conducts all research in accordance with Market Research Standards and Guidelines.

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified financial services and insurance organizations in the United States. Nationwide is rated A+ by Standard & Poor’s. An industry leader in driving customer-focused innovation, Nationwide provides a full range of insurance and financial services products including auto, business, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; and pet, motorcycle and boat insurance.

For more information about Nationwide and Nationwide’s ratings, visit www.nationwide.com or Company Ratings -- Nationwide.

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Nationwide celebrates 2026 NAGDCA Leadership Recognition Award recipients

Nationwide congratulates the public-sector defined contribution plans recognized with 2026 National Association of Government Defined Contribution Administrators (NAGDCA) Leadership Recognition Awards for their innovative programs, projects and campaigns designed to improve retirement readiness and participant outcomes.

Government member nominations were accepted in five categories and evaluated by the 2026 Awards Committee based on originality, effectiveness and measurable results. This year’s recipients demonstrate how thoughtful plan design, personalized communications, technology and holistic financial wellness initiatives can help participants build greater financial security.

“These awards are highly respected within our industry and reflect the creativity, dedication and commitment our partners bring to helping participants achieve greater financial security,” said Kevin Jestice, president of Nationwide Retirement Solutions. “This recognition is made possible by the strong partnerships between our clients and the Nationwide teams who support them every day.”

2026 NAGDCA Leadership Recognition Award recipients

City of Phoenix — Everyday Plan Champions: Real City of Phoenix Stories Driving Retirement Readiness

The City of Phoenix Plan Champion Campaign uses real employees to bring the Deferred Compensation Plan to life. Five Plan Champions from different departments share how they use plan tools and education to pursue their goals and build retirement confidence. Their stories appear across the plan website, emails, digital monitors, posters and the City’s Financial Expo, where Champions engage directly with their peers.

Video viewership and attention rates, along with continued growth in plan assets, contributions and education usage, show how relatable employee voices can help participants better understand and use their retirement benefits.

County of Monterey — Automatic Enrollment for Every New Hire

County of Monterey leadership and labor partners introduced automatic enrollment for two bargaining groups, CEMA and SEIU, in response to concerns about long-term retirement readiness. The approach was designed to encourage new employees to take action while preserving choice, flexibility and participant protections. The County has experienced significant increases in new-hire participation in its 457(b) plan, particularly during employees’ first year.

State of California Savings Plus Program — 2025 Fund Mapping & Redesign

California Savings Plus modernized the investment foundation of one of the nation’s largest public-sector retirement programs through a two-phase fund mapping and redesign initiative. The program simplified investment choice, lowered costs and strengthened default outcomes while maintaining participant confidence throughout a multibillion-dollar transition.

The redesign affected more than 200,000 participants and over $14 billion in assets. It transitioned participants into institutionally priced target-date funds, introduced stable value options, reduced lineup complexity and delivered an estimated $10 million in annualized participant fee savings. The implementation was completed with zero mapping errors and stable service levels.

California Savings Plus was also selected as one of the top three finalists in the large plan category for the 2026 NAGDCA Art Caple President’s Award, which honors excellence in public sector defined contribution plans. Established in memory of past NAGDCA President Art Caple, the award celebrates visionary leadership and innovation that enhance participants’ financial well-being.

Nationwide Retirement Solutions is a business within Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, and one of the largest and strongest diversified financial services and insurance organizations in the United States.

Nationwide Retirement Solutions administers nearly 32,000 retirement plans, helping protect nearly $200 billion in participant assets and helping secure the financial futures of more than 2.7 million participants. Nationwide services the highest volume of governmental 457(b) plans and has demonstrated significant growth in the corporate 401(k) and not-for-profit 403(b) markets.

Nationwide is committed to serving the retirement industry by doing the right thing at the right time through better participant experiences, administrative simplicity and values that translate to service. Visit nrsforu.com for more information about the tools and services Nationwide provides to retirement plan participants.

Source: 2026 Award Winners — NAGDCA

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