Jay Jackson transformed a boutique life settlement firm into a NYSE-listed alternative asset manager focused on longevity-based financial products.
Early Life: Jackson grew up in the Sierra Nevada mountains, an upbringing he credits with instilling resilience and a unique perspective on long-term planning.
First Break: Founded and managed the Fayerweather Street Life Fund, serving as his entry into the life settlement and alternative asset space.
Path to CEO: Jackson built Abacus from a predecessor entity (Abacus Settlements, LLC) over two decades, evolving it from a niche player into a publicly traded financial services firm that utilizes proprietary AI to price longevity risk.
Original Vision: To bridge the gap between traditional financial services and the life insurance secondary market by creating data-driven investment solutions.
Jay Jackson co-founded Abacus with a mission to change how the insurance industry and individual investors view life policies as asset classes. His journey, from early niche funds in the life settlement space to leading a diversified, publicly traded firm, is defined by his persistence in educating the market and leveraging data science. He navigated regulatory challenges and market skepticism to scale Abacus, culminating in its 2025 move to the New York Stock Exchange. He acts as a central evangelist for the firm's longevity-based investment thesis, constantly engaging through podcasts and media appearances to maintain investor interest.
founder-ledpioneerlongevity-investing