During the Great Depression, Oregonians line up outside the Public Employment Bureau.
Picture provided by the Oregon Historical Society.

Weathering the Bleakest Years

It was the "war to end all wars," World War I, and Americans were encouraged to invest in Liberty Bonds. Many businesses and individuals followed Uncle Sam's advice, including Oregon Life Insurance Company (now known as The Standard). Not only did it allow the company to express patriotism and help finance the war, it was a sound investment — a return was guaranteed, even if the yield was low.

During the 1920s and '30s, the company was in the process of changing its name to become a mutual company and invested in other low-risk bonds while selling off the remainder of its more volatile stocks. This conservative investment strategy ensured claims would be paid promptly and fairly — services of paramount importance.

It also protected investors and customers following the stock market crash of October 29, 1929. While many financial services companies faced ruin because of their dependence on stocks, Oregon Mutual Life Insurance Company's portfolio primarily consisted of bonds. Customers continued to receive the prompt, fair settlements the company's founders believed in and were even able to take out loans against the cash value of their policies during the Great Depression.

Sound principles of financial conservatism have been the hallmark of the company for 100 years and continue today. Our investment portfolio contains high-quality investments and is managed to ensure we're positioned to keep our promises made to customers and investors in the future.