Moving up an impressive 58 spots from where it first entered the Fastest-Growing list last year, this underwriter of annuities has posted record sales every year for the past three years. Last year’s sales exceeded $5 billion, while net income doubled to $86.2 million. And the key to American Equity's success? A growing demand for guaranteed retirement income products. The company offers a mix of pension plans that protect the principal sum invested and enjoy tax deferred growth. -- N.S.
| Company | Sales growth (3-year annual rate) |
|---|---|
| Northern Oil and Gas | 237% |
| ZAGG | 104% |
| Green Mountain Coffee Roasters | 78% |
| Company | Profit growth (3-year annual rate) |
|---|---|
| Cirrus Logic | 450% |
| IAMGOLD | 421% |
| HFF | 341% |
| Company | Total return (3-year annual rate) |
|---|---|
| Questcor Pharmaceuticals | 120% |
| 3D Systems | 112% |
| TPC Group | 111% |
