Newsletter for May 1, 2017
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In This Issue
General Items
Superior Administration: Why Quality TPAs Outperform Bundled
Abstract: There are numerous advantages in working with a TPA that go significantly above and beyond just looking at a spreadsheet. And a "best-in-class" approach of unbundling allows for the selection of the best component providers of recordkeeping, administration, and advisory services.
Source: Bpp401k.com
Unbundled Providers Make Sense for Small 401k Plans
Abstract: Many small companies choose a bundled plan because they do not have the staff to select and manage multiple service providers. However, some plans gravitate towards unbundled services as they grow to seek more control and look to add a wider variety of investment options. Deciding whether to select bundled or unbundled services rests on several factors outlined here.
Source: 401khelpcenter.com
Fiduciary and Plan Governance Material
Seven Best Practices Every Retirement Plan Committee Member Should Follow
Abstract: Many plan sponsors create oversight committees for their qualified retirement plans. The duties of these committees are significant and committee members are typically fiduciaries who need to act in a diligent, prudent manner, and in the best interest of the participant. This article covers seven of the most important best practices every plan committee should consider following.
Source: Meadenmoore.com
Duty, Opportunity, Mastery: Investment Committee Best Practices
Abstract: Investment committees carry weighty responsibilities. This 21-page paper offers insights into how committees can improve decision-making on behalf of their organizations.
Source: Vanguard.com
Get Over the Fear of Hiring an ERISA Attorney
Abstract: Plan sponsors should get over their phobia of lawyers and hire an ERISA attorney when they need to. This article is when and why retirement plan sponsors should hire an ERISA attorney.
Source: Jdsupra.com
»» Click here for more Fiduciary and Plan Governance Material
Insight: Studies, Research, and White Papers
PSCA's HSA and Retirement Plan Survey
Abstract: The Plan Sponsor Council of America's newly created HSA committee has released the results of their first snapshot survey designed to measure plan sponsors use of HSAs and their perceptions of HSAs as a retirement savings vehicle.
Source: Psca.org
Reality Check: The Overconfident Retirement Plan Participant
Abstract: Juxtaposing plan participants' optimism with their self-reported retirement readiness, we see a clear disconnect. The disconnect between participants' retirement expectations and their savings habits stems in part from their limited understanding of, and comfort with, the logistics of retirement planning.
Source: Corporateinsight.com
»» Click here for More Studies, Research, and White Papers
Items of Unique Interest to Service Providers
401k Advisors: Thriving in a Big Brand World
Abstract: As a business owner and retirement plan advisor, you understand the fiduciary process of organizing, formalizing, implementing, and monitoring. Now, it's time to take the same approach to constructively evaluating your brand. Professional branding could be the differentiator needed to demonstrate your experience to increase your retirement plan business.
Source: 401k-marketing.com
401k Advisors: Marketing Works in a Squiggly Line
Abstract: In today's dynamic multi-media world, your plan sponsor prospects search for information in a variety of ways. They seek information on their phones, Google, newsletters, seminars, webinars, emails, blog articles, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, et al. That's why it is important to be where your prospects, clients, and centers of influence are searching for information.
Source: 401k-marketing.com
Legislative and Washington DC
Are Retirement Savings Safe From Tax Reform?
Abstract: Unveiling President Trump's tax reform proposal, Gary Cohn, Trump's chief economic advisor and director of the National Economic Council, said that "retirement savings will be protected."
Source: Ntsa-net.org
Senate Confirms Labor Secretary Acosta
Abstract: The Senate confirmed one of the final members of President Trump's Cabinet, Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, on Thursday.
Source: Thehill.com
»» Click here for more on Legislative Actions
State-Based Retirement Programs
Oregon Moves Ahead With State-Run IRA Program
Abstract: Oregon took another step forward this week to implement the "OregonSaves" program, as the Oregon Retirement Savings Board approved the final rules that will govern the operation of the program.
Source: Asppa.org
Chamber Flexing Muscle to Stop States' Retirement Initiatives
Abstract: A congressional effort to squelch state-run retirement programs for private-sector workers may get a push over the finish line from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Source: Bna.com (registration may be required)
Colorado Senate Panel Rejects Plan for State-Sponsored Retirement Accounts
Abstract: Ideological differences -- coupled with heavy lobbying by the financial industry to preserve the status quo -- have combined to make any attempts to find a solution at the Colorado Statehouse elusive.
Source: Denverpost.com
Compliance and Regulatory
2017 Expanded Reporting and Disclosure Requirements Calendar
Abstract: The 2017 Expanded Reporting and Disclosure Requirements Calendar provides who, what, when and where reporting and disclosure information for single-employer defined benefit and defined contribution plans subject to ERISA.
Source: Willistowerswatson.com
AICPA Previews New Standard for ERISA Plan Audits
Abstract: A new auditing standard proposed by the American Institute of CPAs is geared toward audits of financial statements of employee benefit plans that are subject to ERISA. The proposal addresses the auditor's responsibilities to form an opinion and report on the financial statements of ERISA plans.
Source: Accountingweb.com
»» Click here for more Compliance and Regulatory Material
Marketplace News
AXA Announces RVP Appointments in Retirement Division
Segal Expands Corporate Retirement Practice Staff
»» Click here for More Marketplace News
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