IRI 2026 ANNUAL CONFERENCE OPENS TO RECORD-BREAKING ATTENDANCE

For Fifth Consecutive Year Leaders Convene for Industry's Premier Event

WASHINGTON, D.C. The Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) today opened its 2026 Annual Conference, welcoming a fifth straight year of record-breaking attendance with more than 950 industry leaders convening for the sector's premier event.

The two-and-a-half-day conference features a robust program of keynote speakers, plus general sessions and breakout discussions on the most pressing issues shaping the future of retirement security, led by industry executives, policymakers, and thought leaders.

Industry leadership takes center stage in the conference's first general session-a panel discussion with Thasunda Brown Duckett, President and CEO, TIAA, and Jenny Johnson, CEO, Franklin Templeton, moderated by Wayne Chopus, President and CEO, IRI. The session will examine the leaders' perspectives on strategic challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The conference also offers opportunities for attendees to network and build stronger professional relationships. That collaboration and the energy it generates continue to define the IRI Annual Conference as a must-attend event where the conversations shaping the future of the industry take place.

In opening remarks to the record-setting crowd, Chopus emphasized confidence as a central theme, highlighting the industry's strong trajectory, growing alignment, and commitment to deliver financial security to millions more Americans.

Chopus shared several observations of how IRI is driving industry progress.

• Recognized as the authoritative voice for the industry due to IRI's leadership and success on critical regulatory issues and advancing retirement income policy
• Delivering industry innovation through IRI's Digital First for Annuities initiative
• Organizational strength powered by a highly engaged and collaborative Board of Directors, and passionate member participation across committees, events, and other activities
• Strategic investment in talent and capabilities resulting in a formidable IRI team that enhances the association's ability to deliver value and execute on behalf of its members
• Fostering a more connected and aligned industry, reflected in record attendance, strong membership growth, and increased collaboration among stakeholders

"As an industry, we have never been better positioned to meet the needs of workers and retirees," Chopus said. "The opportunity in front of us has never been greater. And I can say without hesitation that I have never been more optimistic about the future of this industry than I am right now."

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