What can affect the cash value of a Variable Life Insurance policy?

The cash value of a Variable Life Insurance policy is directly influenced by the performance of selected investment options within the policy. In these types of policies, the cash value is not fixed; instead, it fluctuates based on the investment choices made by the policyholder. These investments typically include stocks, bonds, and mutual funds that the policyholder can allocate premiums toward, and their performance will result in either gains or losses in the cash value. This dynamic means that as the underlying investments perform well or poorly, the cash value will adjust accordingly, offering the potential for higher returns compared to traditional whole life insurance, which has a guaranteed cash value component. This connection emphasizes the importance of understanding investment risks and market conditions when managing a Variable Life Insurance policy.