U.S. application activity for individually underwritten life insurance increased +2.1% in June, all ages combined year-over-year, according to the MIB Life Index. The Index has posted positive numbers in 8 of the last 9 months, however quarterly numbers show easing growth — up +1.3% Q2 2012/2011, up +4.2% Q1 2012/2011.  In the first half of the year, the MIB Life Index is up +2.8% year-to-date (YTD), compared to the same six months last year. June's numbers were up +2.2% from those of May, a strong posting versus  historical numbers for this time period.   

U.S. application activity grew across all three age groups for the second consecutive month: 
ages 0-44, up +2.0%; ages 45-59, up +0.7%; and ages 60+, up +4.5%, year-over-year.  Mid-year, ages 0-44 are up +1.9% YTD; ages 45-59 are up +2.0% YTD; and ages 60+are  up +7.3% YTD versus same period last year.