The State of the Structured Settlement Industry in 2026 with Charles "Buster" Joyner

In this episode of the Settle Smart Podcast, Eric Vaughn is joined by Charles Buster Joyner, President of Atlas Settlements and 2026 President of the NSSTA Board of Directors, for an in-depth conversation on the current state and future direction of the structured settlement industry.Buster reflects on another record year for structured settlements, exploring why production continues to grow and how economic forces such as inflation, rising interest rates, and larger settlements are shaping outcomes for claimants, families, and practitioners.The discussion examines the evolving settlement landscape, including new life insurance company participation, increased competition, and the pressures these changes place on traditional settlement structures. Buster also explains why structured settlements remain, at their core, a product of compromise—and why unity across the industry is essential to preserving long-term protections and tax treatment.Topics covered include:What’s driving record structured settlement productionHow social inflation and larger settlements affect case designThe impact of new life company entrants and competitive marketsApproved lists, QSFs, and emerging structural challengesPrivate equity, market-based products, and regulatory considerationsWhy a unified industry voice matters in WashingtonLessons from four decades of structured settlement leadershipThe importance of education and professionalism for the next generationThis episode offers a valuable perspective for structured settlement professionals, attorneys, claims leaders, and anyone focused on protecting long-term financial security for injured individuals and their families.Visit our site at https://nssta.com/ to learn more about structured settlements.