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Metlife

MetLife, Inc., a leading global provider of insurance, annuities, and employee benefit programs, was founded in 1868. With operations in over 40 countries, MetLife serves approximately 90 million customers worldwide. The company is known for its financial strength, innovative products, and commitment to customer service, making it one of the largest and most respected insurance companies in the world.

Creation Time:2024-05-19 16 key nodes English

The Timeline

1868 — 2023

  1. 1868

    Foundation of MetLife

    MetLife, originally known as the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, was founded in New York City in March 1868.
  2. 1879

    Introduction of Industrial Insurance

    MetLife began offering industrial insurance to low-income workers, making insurance accessible to a broader segment of the population.
  3. 1909

    Largest Life Insurer in the U.S.

    By 1909, MetLife became the largest life insurer in the United States, a position it has maintained for many years.
  4. 1914

    World War I Support

    During World War I, MetLife provided insurance to soldiers and contributed to the war effort through bond purchases.
  5. 1930

    Expansion into Group Insurance

    MetLife expanded its offerings to include group insurance, providing coverage to employees of businesses and organizations.
  6. 1972

    Introduction of Snoopy as Mascot

    MetLife adopted Snoopy, the beloved character from the Peanuts comic strip, as its corporate mascot, enhancing its brand recognition.
  7. 1981

    Introduction of Universal Life Insurance

    MetLife introduced universal life insurance, offering flexible premiums and death benefits to policyholders.
  8. 1985

    Expansion into Real Estate

    MetLife diversified its investments by expanding into real estate, becoming a major player in commercial real estate markets.
  9. 2000

    Demutualization and IPO

    MetLife transitioned from a mutual company to a publicly traded company and conducted its initial public offering (IPO) on the New York Stock Exchange.
  10. 2005

    Acquisition of Travelers Life & Annuity

    MetLife acquired Travelers Life & Annuity, significantly expanding its product offerings and market presence.
  11. 2010

    Acquisition of Alico

    MetLife acquired American Life Insurance Company (Alico) from AIG, enhancing its global footprint and market share.
  12. 2012

    Divestiture of Retail Banking Operations

    MetLife sold its retail banking operations to GE Capital, focusing more on its core insurance and employee benefits businesses.
  13. 2015

    Launch of MetLife Investment Management

    MetLife launched MetLife Investment Management to manage its investment portfolio and offer investment solutions to institutional investors.
  14. 2017

    Separation of Brighthouse Financial

    MetLife separated its U.S. retail business, creating Brighthouse Financial to focus on life insurance and annuities.
  15. 2020

    Acquisition of Versant Health

    MetLife acquired Versant Health, expanding its capabilities in the vision care market and enhancing its employee benefits offerings.
  16. 2023

    Commitment to Sustainability

    MetLife announced ambitious sustainability goals, including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its global operations by 2050.

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