Planet Money · Friday, August 14, 2026
Frank Sarawsky discovered the concept of life settlements and found potential buyers for his $1.5 million life insurance policy. Initially seeking $600,000, he negotiated with brokers who were auctioning his policy. After a year of waiting for the price to increase, he accepted an offer of $500,000, viewing it as a successful way to care for his family.
“Frank's looking at his spreadsheets and he's realizing that the deal he's been offered by his brokers isn't even close to what he's hoping for.”
“The price of his policy has gone up. It's now worth $500,000.”
“And so Frank is faced with a choice.”