The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (Penn Mutual) has signed a definitive agreement to merge with Connecticut-based Vantis Life Insurance Company (Vantis Life).

The deal will expand Penn Mutual’s presence in the life insurance industry by leveraging Vantis Life’s bank-focused distribution model.

As a result of this deal, Vantis Life will become a wholly-owned affiliate of Penn Mutual, a Pennsylvania mutual life insurer since 1847.

The deal, which is contingent upon regulatory approval, allows Penn Mutual to expand the reach of its life insurance and annuity products through Vantis Life’s direct-to-consumer and bank channels.

These additional capabilities will complement the highly regarded adviser network that currently does business with Penn Mutual.

Both companies will continue to operate under their current brands and maintain their respective management teams and workforces.

Penn Mutual chairman and CEO Eileen McDonnell said: “Penn Mutual is committed to growing our leadership position within the life insurance industry and maintaining our strong track record of success.

“This combination will allow us to reach more Americans with much needed financial products and advice. We have come to admire the team at Vantis Life, and look forward to helping them serve the needs of the company’s existing clients, as well as building new client relationships into the future.”

Vantis Life has distribution agreements with more than 150 banks and credit unions, including large super-regional and regional banks, and a footprint that spans 45 states with more than 10,000 branch locations.

Vantis Life president and CEO Peter L. Tedone said: “For 75 years, Vantis Life has had unyielding dedication to providing protection products to underinsured, middle-income households.

“Penn Mutual’s 169-year history and financial wherewithal will allow Vantis Life to continue to develop and deploy cutting-edge technologies and distinctive strategies to reach new customers.”

Penn Mutual is one of only 12 life insurers to maintain a rating of A or better by A.M. Best for over 75 years—making the list for 88 consecutive years and is currently rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best. Penn Mutual is rated Aa3 (Excellent) by Moody’s and A+ (Strong) by Standard & Poor’s. The outlook for all three ratings is stable.

Tedone added: “We anticipate that Penn Mutual’s financial strength and solid ratings with the three major rating agencies will open new distribution opportunities for Vantis Life.

McDonnell added: “Penn Mutual’s culture and status as a mutual life insurance company is a natural fit for Vantis Life, which is focused on providing ‘A Better Life Experience’ to customers and agents.”

“As the industry moves forward, I believe more life insurance companies will seek high quality partnerships to continue to add value to their customers.”