Lincoln Financial Group Enhances American Legacy® Portfolio with Launch of American Funds Insurance Series® Global Balanced Fund(SM) and Mortgage Fund(SM)

Fund Introductions Underscore Lincoln's Ongoing Commitment to Product Innovation and Exclusivity within its American Legacy® Suite of Variable Annuity Products

News provided by

Lincoln Financial Group

Jun 08, 2011, 10:30 ET

PHILADELPHIA, June 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC) today announced the introduction of two new investment options available through its American Legacy^® suite of variable annuity products – American Funds Insurance Series^® Global Balanced Fund(SM) and American Funds Insurance Series Mortgage Fund(SM). American Legacy^® will be the only variable annuity product to offer both of these funds as well as provide access to the entire suite of American Funds Insurance Series^® investment options.

Global Balanced Fund(SM)was designed to provide long-term growth of capital, conservation of principal and current income by investing in stocks and bonds around the world, capitalizing on investor recognition of the attractive growth opportunities global markets can offer. Mortgage Fund(SM) provides current income and preservation of capital by investing primarily in high-quality mortgage-related securities, offering a secure opportunity for investors to enter the mortgage market. Both funds are exclusively offered through Lincoln's American Legacy^® portfolio.

"The exclusivity of these new funds further emphasizes the special relationship Lincoln has long enjoyed through its 25-year partnership with American Funds," said Dan Hayes, Head of Funds Management, Retirement Solutions, Lincoln Financial Group. "Together, we have developed solutions that help people secure and maximize their income for a long-term retirement."

Lincoln Financial Group and American Funds created American Legacy^® nearly 25 years ago, which is today one of the only single manager variable annuity available in the marketplace. With American Legacy^®, the companies continue to offer:

Access to all 18 American Funds Insurance Series^® investment options
Optional guaranteed features to grow and protect income
Tax-deferred growth, tax-free transfers, and tax-efficient lifetime income options
Death benefit protection for loved ones

"As one of the only single money manager variable annuities in the industry, Lincoln has built a solid reputation for crafting a lineup of respected funding options that can help investors achieve a confident future," added Brian Kroll, Head of Annuity Solutions, Lincoln Financial Group. "The introduction of Global Balanced Fund (SM) and Mortgage Fund(SM) demonstrates Lincoln's ongoing commitment to innovation and developing targeted funds within the American Legacy^® suite of products."

Variable annuities are long-term investment products designed for retirement purposes and are subject to market fluctuation, investment risk and possible loss of principal. Variable annuities contain both investment and insurance components, and have fees and charges, including mortality and expense, administrative and advisory fees. Optional features are available for an additional charge and are based on the financial strength of the insurer. The annuity's value fluctuates with the market value of the underlying investment options, and all assets accumulate tax-deferred. Withdrawals of earnings are taxable as ordinary income and, if taken prior to age 59 1/2, may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty. Withdrawals will reduce the death benefit and cash surrender value.

Variable products are sold by prospectus. Consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the variable product and its underlying investment options carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the variable product and its underlying investment options. A prospectus is available by calling 888 868-2583. Read it carefully before investing.

About Lincoln Financial Group

Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE: LNC) and its affiliates. With headquarters in the Philadelphia region, the companies of Lincoln Financial Group had assets under management of $162 billion as of March 31, 2011. Through its affiliated companies, Lincoln Financial Group offers: annuities; life, group life, disability and dental insurance; 401(k) and 403(b) plans; savings plans; and comprehensive financial planning and advisory services. For more information, including a copy of our most recent SEC reports containing our balance sheets, please visit www.LincolnFinancial.com.

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SOURCE Lincoln Financial Group