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Daily Article Digest - Updated Throughout the DayThis digest contains a wide variety of the freshest source material dealing with current trends, opinion, news, legislative action, investments, marketing, sales, consulting, and legal issues regarding 401k, 403(b) and other retirement plans. Each listing contains a headline (hyperlinked to the source document), description, source of the item, and the month and year posted to this digest. Use the SEARCH feature to located specific items from this digest and from our ARCHIVE. RSS feed of this page is available:
Oregon Retirement Savings Program Amends Enrollment LanguageAbstract: The Oregon Retirement Savings Program on June 22 filed a temporary amendment to its program rules with the Oregon Secretary of State's office. The amendment modifies language related to enrollment in the program. It comes a little more than a week before the July 1 launch of the ORSP's first pilot. Source: Ntsa-net.org, June 2017
Fact or Fiction in the Retirement Wellness MediaAbstract: If the large majority of people think lifetime income is important, then we need plans that promote it. Yes, those people can get lifetime income from their 401k, but if they are doing it through a commercial annuity, they have to purchase that annuity at "retail" rates. On the other hand, if they have a defined benefit plan, they can get better lifetime income from the same amount of money because they are getting the annuity at wholesale rates. Source: Johnhlowell.blogspot.com, June 2017
Retirement Assets Total $26.1 Trillion in First Quarter 2017Abstract: Total US retirement assets were $26.1 trillion as of March 31, 2017, up 3.2 percent from December 31, 2016. Retirement assets accounted for 34 percent of all household financial assets in the United States at the end of March 2017. Source: Ici.org, June 2017
Impact of the DOL Fiduciary Rule on Independent Insurance AgentsAbstract: Recommendations of annuities and life insurance to retirement plan participants and IRAs are fiduciary acts under the DOL's new fiduciary definition. This means that independent insurance agents need to engage in a prudent process in making those recommendations. This article addresses the types of recommendations that are covered by the fiduciary rule, describes a prudent process, and discusses the conditions independent insurance agents will need to meet. Source: Drinkerbiddle.com, June 2017
Auto Features: Inertia Beaters, but May Generate ExhaustAbstract: Automatic features can help overcome saving gridlock, but they are not necessarily a panacea and can have consequences of their own. Source: Asppa.org, June 2017
California Secure Choice, Modified, Heads for Governor's SignatureAbstract: The Golden State has modified the legislation regarding its state-run auto-IRA program for private sector workers in place, readying the measure for Gov. Jerry Brown's expected signature. Source: Asppa.org, June 2017
Targeted Communication Driving Deferral RatesAbstract: Most Americans are unsure about how much of their pay they should use to fuel a retirement savings vehicle. However, certain steps can be taken to address this issue. Ascensus found that targeted communication, education, technology and auto-enrollment together can have a significant impact on motivating participants to increase contribution rates. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Retirement Security Is Particularly Challenging for Latino WorkersAbstract: Many Americans struggle to save for retirement. According to a NIRS survey, three-fourths of Americans are worried about their ability to retire securely. One group that is particularly affected by this retirement savings crisis is Latino retirees, who live longer, but have lower savings rates than other groups. Source: Protectpensions.org, June 2017
2017 Lincoln Retirement Power Participant StudyAbstract: This 12-page study is based on a national survey of 2,509 full-time workers ages 21 to 70 who have been contributing to their current employer's defined contribution retirement plan for at least one year, with data weighted by demographics to mirror the total population. The study seeks to identify forward-thinking ways to help plan sponsors, advisors, intermediaries and participants. Source: Lfg.com, June 2017
Collective Investment Trusts Getting More Attention From 401k AdvisersAbstract: Mutual funds hold the lion's share of 401k assets, but another investment vehicle -- collective investment trusts -- are quickly emerging as a contender. Source: Investmentnews.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Collective Investment Trusts Getting More Attention From 401k AdvisersAbstract: Mutual funds hold the lion's share of 401k assets, but another investment vehicle -- collective investment trusts -- are quickly emerging as a contender. Source: Investmentnews.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Voya Scores Win in ERISA Suit Over Robo-Adviser FeesAbstract: Voya Financial and its subsidiaries convinced a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit by a 401k investor who says the company overcharged for investment advice provided by robo-adviser Financial Engines Advisors. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Millennials Make Greatest Gains in 401k Plan ParticipationAbstract: Rates of saving for retirement and investing habits differ from one generation to the next, according to a recent analysis of four million people who participate in 401k plans provided by Wells Fargo. Retirement plan data for Boomers, Generation X, and millennials reveal ways each generation can learn from the others when it comes to saving for retirement. Source: 401khelpcenter.com, June 2017
Report Finds Retirement, College, and Health Savings Activity ExpandingAbstract: Ascensus has released its annual trends report, "Inside America's Savings Plans." The report highlights the leading trends across the retirement, college savings, and health savings account (HSA) industries. Source: 401khelpcenter.com, June 2017
Tear Down the Silos Between HSAs and 401ksAbstract: It's time for health savings accounts and 401ks to get better acquainted. Consigning them to separate silos isn't helping employees save for retirement, which is costing employers a bundle of money. Source: Shrm.org, June 2017
Texas Board Aims to Kneecap 403(b) Participant Choice, ProvidersAbstract: The Texas Teachers Retirement System Board of Trustees published a proposed rule in the Texas Register that could eliminate virtually all of the existing registered 403(b) products in the state from being actively marketed under new salary reduction agreements. Source: Ntsa-net.org, June 2017
The Importance of Retirement Plan Record Retention -- Whose Job Is It Anyway?Abstract: The IRS and federal tax regulations require that records be retained as long as their contents may become material in the administration of any internal revenue law. As a result, records for retirement plans should be kept until all benefits have been paid, the trust has been dissolved and sufficient time has passed such that the plan will not be the subject of an audit. Source: Erisadiagnostics.com, June 2017
The Quandary of Publicly-Traded Employer Stock in a 401k PlanAbstract: This article examines the quandary that employer stock funds pose for plan sponsors, who must navigate ERISA's careful balance of (1) ensuring fair and prompt enforcement of employee rights under employer-provided retirement plans while (2) encouraging employer creation of these plans. Source: Employeebenefitsblog.com, June 2017
Putnam Beats Class Action Over In-House 401k InvestmentsAbstract: Putnam Investments defeated a class action challenging the allegedly high-fee proprietary investment funds in the company's 401k plan. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Fidelity Defeats Class Action Over Stable Value FundAbstract: Fidelity Management Trust is free of a class action by 401k investors who said the company's stable value fund carried excessive fees and used an unduly conservative investment strategy. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Amazon-Whole Foods Merger Likely to See 401k ConsolidationAbstract: Amazons proposal to merge with Whole Foods Market may leave employees of the two companies wondering what will become of their retirement plans. The merger, if it progresses, will involve a decision of whether to consolidate the two companies' sizable 401k plans or keep them separate. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
DOL Fiduciary Rule Takes EffectAbstract: Financial advisors who work on commissions, such as brokers and insurance agents, will be impacted the most by the new fiduciary rule. While receiving commissions will not be prohibited, advisors who wish to continue working on a commission basis will be required to provide clients with a disclosure agreement called a Best Interest Contract Exemption (BICE). Source: Axiaadvisory.com, June 2017
NAPA, CIkR Task Force Develops Small Plan RFP TemplateAbstract: Small plans frequently have big service needs, and a special joint NAPA/CIkR task force has developed a template designed to make it easier to obtain a consistent, apples-to-apples comparison of service features from 401k recordkeepers. Source: Asppa.org, June 2017
Market Gains Drove Highest Quarterly Return for DC Plans Since 2013Abstract: DC plans were on the receiving end of strong market performance during the first quarter of this year, rising 4.67%, its highest quarterly return since year-end 2013, according to the latest Callan DC Index. Source: Asppa.org, June 2017
Recalibrating Your Defined Contribution PlanAbstract: Plan sponsors are eager to improve participants' retirement outcomes. Reenrollment is a powerful way to steer employees into effective investment options. However, some plan sponsors have balked at the idea. Source: Abglobal.com, June 2017
Revenue Sharing Spurring 401k Lawsuits With More to ComeAbstract: With the focus on 401k and 403(b) lawsuits, it may be time for employers sponsoring a corporate retirement plan to get out of the line of fire by eliminating revenue sharing altogether. Source: 401ktv.com, June 2017
Valuing DC Choice: Many People Like the Flexibility of 401k PlansAbstract: Nearly all U.S. households that have a defined contribution retirement plan account agree that "it is important to have choice in, and control of, the investments in their retirement accounts," according to a new survey released by the Investment Company Institute. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Plan Assets and Prohibited TransactionsAbstract: When analyzing whether a prohibited transaction has occurred, there are certain threshold questions that need to be asked. If the alleged violation is said to be an ERISA Section 406(b) violation, it is necessary to establish that at least one of the parties is a fiduciary and that plan assets were involved. But, determining what are plan assets is not as easy as it seems. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Advocating for Aggressive Plan DesignAbstract: With one in three Americans having zero saved for retirement and nearly one-third of Americans over the age of 85 having no savings, it is hard to say that we as a nation are preparing people for retirement. Advisers should be advocating for aggressive plan design to help ensure what workers save goes the distance. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Millennial Retirement Saving SurveyAbstract: This Pentegra survey shows over 80 percent (81.37 percent) of millennials are currently saving for retirement, and over one-third (37.25 percent) are putting at least 5 percent of their salary into a retirement savings vehicle. However, nearly 18 percent (17.65 percent) are saving nothing, while nearly half (45.1 percent) are saving what Pentegra defines as inadequate levels (under 5 percent). In total, 62.75 percent are saving inadequately. Source: Pentegra.com, June 2017
"Apples to Apples" and Other Investment Return IssuesAbstract: Courts, plan sponsors, and investment fiduciaries in general must be able to differentiate between nominal returns, load-adjusted, and risk-adjusted returns in order to (1) know when each is appropriate, and (2) to be able to properly determine whether a fund is providing commensurate value for higher fees in order to ensure that they are properly comparing "apples to apples" in order to act in the "best interests" of a plan and its participants. Source: Iainsight.wordpress.com, June 2017
Allianz Workers Get Class Treatment in Suit Over 401k In-House FundsAbstract: Allianz Asset Management of America L.P. workers won class certification on their lawsuit challenging the allegedly high-fee, in-house mutual funds in their 401k plan. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Target-Date Funds Don't Serve Employees Well: StudyAbstract: Most target-date funds aren't serving employees well, argues a paper published earlier this month. While target-date funds are an easy option for employees who aren't comfortable with making investment decisions, the funds don't consider employees' desired retirement incomes or how well the portfolio fares over time. Source: Benefitscanada.com, June 2017
With the Tip of a Hat, a Fund Manager Can Be an ERISA FiduciaryAbstract: Some advisors may now find themselves unexpectedly wearing a "fiduciary hat" with respect to benefit plan clients (including individual retirement accounts). While it is expected that the scope of the final DOL fiduciary rule has limited effect for fund managers, there are certain marketing and promotional activities that could implicate the final regulation. Source: Winstead.com, June 2017*
Should You Use Your Retirement Savings to Start a Business?Abstract: If you're thinking of starting a business, you need money. And if you are lacking investors and lenders knocking on your door, it may dawn on you: You have startup capital sitting in a 401k, IRA or some other retirement account. Should you use it? Source: Usnews.com, June 2017
Women in Retirement: Are You Part of the 60 Percent?Abstract: Almost 60 percent of the women surveyed at the 2016 Texas Conference for Women fear they aren't saving enough for retirement! Check out the numbers, common retirement pitfalls, and ways to be proactive and start saving in this article by NFP SVP of Retirement Services Lisa Kottler. Source: Txconferenceforwomen.org, June 2017
California to Move Forward With Auto-IRA Despite Loss of ERISA Safe HarborAbstract: This article addresses the background on auto-IRAs, the history of the California Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program, the impact of the auto-IRA safe harbor and its reversal, and the effect on California employers. Source: Truckerhuss.com, June 2017
Fiduciary Obligations to Safeguard Plan Participants' DataAbstract: There have been numerous instances of high-profile cybercrime cases over the past couple of years spurring lively discussions in the ERISA community about the potential threat this type of crime poses to plan assets and personal data of plan participants and beneficiaries. Source: Truckerhuss.com, June 2017
Terminated Participants' 401k AccountsAbstract: Spring cleaning. Some look forward to it, others dread it. If we're honest, the more thorough we are with our spring cleaning, the better off we are throughout the year. It's time to take a Swiffer to your retirement plan and clean out the remaining balances of terminated participants. Source: Tristarpension.com, June 2017
401k Rollovers to IRAs and the DOL Fiduciary RuleAbstract: The provision in the DOL fiduciary rule that says distribution and rollover recommendations are fiduciary advice was not changed; it was only delayed from April 10 to June 9. Therefore, any rollover recommendation on or after June 9 will be deemed fiduciary advice and will require a prudent process and an exemption from the prohibited transaction rules. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Fiduciary Reforms Will Impact Expanding HSA MarketAbstract: The DOL fiduciary rule expansion establishes ERISA fair dealing requirements in the sale and service of health savings accounts; employers have a lot of questions about what this means. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
SEC Weighs in on Robo-AdvisersAbstract: In February, the Division of Investment Management of the SEC issued guidance on how RIAs who act as "robo-advisers" may comply with the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. In the guidance, the SEC provided some insights as to what it may view as shortcomings in current robo-adviser program offerings. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Good Bets by 401k Plan Sponsor That Will Limit Their LiabilityAbstract: Retirement plan sponsors can make bets that will pay off in limiting liability by making informed, smart decisions that will pay off in the long run. This article is about good decisions that are sure bets that will help a plan sponsor limit their liability. Source: Jdsupra.com, June 2017
Good Bets by 401k Plan Sponsor That Will Limit Their LiabilityAbstract: Retirement plan sponsors can make bets that will pay off in limiting liability by making informed, smart decisions that will pay off in the long run. This article is about good decisions that are sure bets that will help a plan sponsor limit their liability. Source: Jdsupra.com, June 2017
Does Front-Loading Taxation Increase Savings? Evidence from Roth 401k IntroductionsAbstract: Can governments increase private savings by taxing savings up front instead of in retirement? Using administrative data from eleven companies that added a Roth contribution option to their existing 401k plan between 2006 and 2010, this 43-page Harvard study finds no evidence that total 401k contribution rates differ between employees hired before versus after Roth introduction. Source: Hbs.edu, June 2017
Welcomed IRS Guidance on Use of Forfeitures and Hardship DistributionsAbstract: The IRS recently issued two pieces of long-awaited guidance to facilitate qualified plan operations. The first was the issuance of proposed regulations that would permit forfeitures to be used to fund safe harbor contributions and other corrective contributions. The second was the issuance of new audit procedures regarding the substantiation of hardship distributions, which permits a method of substantiating hardship distributions without having to review and retain the underlying support documentation to show the immediate and heavy financial need for a safe harbor hardship distribution. The new guidance is summarized in this article. Source: Groom.com, June 2017
Alternate Fee Calculation/Allocation ModelsAbstract: Calculating recordkeeping fees and charging them to participants is a matter that should be carefully considered by fiduciaries, especially in light of emerging methods in this area. The best model for one plan may not be the best model for another due to demographic plan differences, such as the number of small account balances. Source: Cammackretirement.com, June 2017
401k and 403(b) Lawsuit Update: Two Cases Settled and One FiledAbstract: In what is becoming common place in the rash of 401k and 403(b) lawsuits, two cases were settled and one new one filed in the span of just one week. Northrup Grumman plan sponsors settled; a case against the Washington University 403(b) plan was filed; and Merrill Lynch settled claims against it by a plan sponsor. Source: 401ktv.com, June 2017
CFOs Who Partner With a Retirement Plan Advisor Achieve Financial Benefits for the BusinessAbstract: According to this 8-page study commissioned by the Retirement Advisor Council, employers that sponsor retirement savings plans are better able to control future labor costs by partnering with a knowledgeable financial advisor. Source: Retirementadvisor.us, June 2017
401k Self-Dealing Suit Filed Against Capital GroupAbstract: The lawsuit claims that when selecting and retaining investment options in the plan, the Capital Group's benefits committee did not act prudently and solely in the interest of plan participants and beneficiaries, but put the interest of Capital Group and its subsidiaries first by selecting, retaining and failing to remove expensive group-affiliated investment options managed by CGTC, CRMC, and/or CII. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Mutual Fund Fees Keep Dipping in 401ksAbstract: Following a long-running trend, the average fees that 401k participants incurred for investing in equity, hybrid and bond mutual funds dropped in 2016 for the seventh straight year, according to the latest study by the Investment Company Institute. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Nevada Imposes Statutory Fiduciary Duty on Broker-DealersAbstract: A new fiduciary duty will become applicable July 1, 2017, for broker-dealers and investment advisers operating in Nevada, and this fiduciary duty has nothing to do with the Department of Labor. Source: Greensfelder.com, June 2017
Warning, Employers: Liability Lurks in Your 401k PlanAbstract: A business owner has a legal fiduciary obligation to make sure the plan is set up, monitored and managed for the "sole benefit" of the employees. For most business owners, this is shocking news, as they often think that the provider or local broker is responsible to make sure things run smoothly. Source: Entrepreneur.com, June 2017
The Economics of Providing 401k Plans: Services, Fees, and Expenses, 2016Abstract: The cost of investing in equity, hybrid, and bond mutual funds through 401k plans fell again in 2016, according to a research study that the Investment Company Institute just released. The 32-page study also shows that participants who invest in mutual funds in their 401k plans tend to hold lower-cost funds. Source: Ici.org, June 2017
Popular 401k Funds Are Packed With Tech StocksAbstract: Fidelity Contrafund's stake is at a 20-year peak, and other retirement plan favorites are getting close. That is either (a) great, or (b) scary. Source: Bloomberg.com, June 2017
The DOL's Fiduciary Rule Is Here, Are You Prepared?Abstract: As a plan fiduciary, the goal is to deliver a top performing vendor plan to your employees with low fees and great service. How does the DOL's new fiduciary rule impact that goal and what should you do as a result? This short article outlines a few steps to take with respect to the rule. Source: Pension-consultants.com, June 2017
How to Evaluate Your 401k Investment AdvisorAbstract: Assessing the performance of your 401k investment advisor is often difficult. How can you tell if your 401k investment advisor is doing a good job? A few tips are provided in the short piece. Source: Lawtonrpc.com, June 2017
Key Questions to Ask to Better Understand Your 403(b)Abstract: While 403(b)s share some similarities with the 401ks offered to corporate employees, these retirement plans are not identical and they can sometimes be confusingly complex in their fee structures and investment options. Source: 403bwise.com, June 2017
Northrop Grumman Settles Multi-Million Dollar 401k Fee SuitAbstract: With the sting of defeat still fresh from a federal judge's dismissal of his Chevron suit, tort lawyer Jerry Schlichter bounced back with the announcement of a $16.75 million 401k fee settlement with Northrop Grumman. Source: 401kspecialistmag.com, June 2017
OregonSaves Edging Closer to Being LiveAbstract: OregonSaves, the state-run auto-IRA program for private-sector workers, is not quite launched yet, but the pieces are falling into place. OregonSaves will begin operation in July 2017. The Oregon Retirement Savings Board has provided a report on preliminary work that is being done in preparation for the system. Source: Ntsa-net.org, June 2017
Fiduciary Rule: June 9 & BeyondAbstract: This article provides a high level summary intended to help ERISA Plans and service providers to ERISA Plans and/or IRAs better understand some of the Fiduciary Rule's compliance requirements, as well as those of the Best Interest Contract (BIC) Exemption, an exemption that is expected to be relied upon by many financial advisers. Source: Kilpatricktownsend.com, June 2017
Defining "Reasonable Comp" Under the DOL RuleAbstract: The best way for financial advisors to think about "reasonable compensation" in the fiduciary sense is to imagine a scatter graph. And the best place to be on that graph is the dot in the middle of the pack of other dots. Source: Insurancenewsnet.com, June 2017
The 401k Plan Investment Policy StatementAbstract: A road map for selecting 401k investments helps keep the plan's offerings consistent. And well-defined criteria for regularly evaluating the investments ensures that the fund managers are investing the plan's assets in a manner consist with your expectations. Once in place, a 401k investment policy statement can provide evidence that the plan sponsor is dutifully acting as a fiduciary when it comes to overseeing the plan's investments. Source: Forusall.com, June 2017
Washington University Is 15th School Sued Over Retirement PlanAbstract: Washington University in St. Louis is the latest college to face a proposed class action over the fees and investment options in its retirement plan. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Merrill Lynch to Pay $25M in Lawsuit Over Fees in Small 401ksAbstract: Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. will pay $25 million to settle a lawsuit that accused the broker-dealer firm of profiting from excessive fees charged to small 401k plans. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Handling QDROs for Your Retirement PlanAbstract: When couples divorce, one spouse's retirement benefits may be divided as part of a property settlement. Although federal law generally does not allow plan participants to assign or alienate their retirement plan interests, there is a limited exception. Retirement benefits may be assigned to a spouse, former spouse, child, or other dependent to satisfy family support or marital property obligations through a domestic relations order if the plan administrator determines it is a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO). Source: Pentegra.com, June 2017
Department of Labor's New Fiduciary Rule Effect on Investment FundsAbstract: The New Fiduciary Rule raises a major concern that investment fund sponsors and others who market investment products to ERISA-covered plans and IRAs could be deemed to be "fiduciaries" in connection with their marketing activities and, therefore, subject to ERISA's prohibitions on self-dealing and conflicts of interest. Consequently, investment fund sponsors need to prepare appropriate measures to avoid becoming ERISA fiduciaries in connection with their marketing activities. Source: Paulhastings.com, June 2017
Pennsylvania Legislature Passes State Employee Retirement Plan BillAbstract: The Pennsylvania legislature has passed Senate Bill 1, a measure that seeks to ease the state's unfunded liability by providing new state employees, including teachers, hired after Jan. 1, 2019 with a choice of one of three retirement benefits. Gov. Tom Wolf is expected to sign the bill into law. Source: Ntsa-net.org, June 2017
Quantifying the Impartial Conduct Standards Under the DOL's New Fiduciary RuleAbstract: With a portion of the DOL's new fiduciary rule scheduled to go into effect, there are still some unanswered questions with regard to how some key terms will be interpreted. The key terms in question are primarily located in the rule's impartial conduct standards. Source: Iainsight.wordpress.com, June 2017
DOL Issues Fiduciary Rule FAQs as SEC Re-Enters Fiduciary Rule DebateAbstract: Given that the Fiduciary Rule will be implemented on June 9, 2017, with full compliance expected by January 1, 2018, it is expected that mutual fund sponsors will move ahead with plans to introduce clean shares and T shares in order to assist fund intermediaries in complying with the Fiduciary Rule. Mutual fund boards of directors and fund service providers should be prepared for a year of potential share class changes and related filings. Source: Drinkerbiddle.com, June 2017
What Can You Expect From the ERISA Fiduciary Advice RuleAbstract: During the transition period, fiduciaries who meet one of the exemptions still need to comply with the Impartial Conduct Standards. This requires fiduciaries to: Provide advice which is in the best interests of their clients; Avoid making misleading statements; and Charge no more than reasonable compensation for services. Source: Bsllp.com, June 2017
Chicago Bridge & Iron Inflated Stock, 401k Participants SayAbstract: Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. allowed artificially inflated company stock as an investment option in its retirement plans, causing its employees millions of dollars in losses, the workers allege. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
Questions 401k and 403(b) Participants Should Ask When the Plan Advisor is ChangedAbstract: The DOL rule will force many advisors to act as a fiduciary which will in turn force many of the over 200,000 advisors without necessary experience or training to either opt out or get serious creating massive turnover. So what questions should plan participants be asking when a 401k or 403(b) change their plan advisor? Source: 401ktv.com, June 2017
House Republicans Pass "Choice" Act, Block Fiduciary RuleAbstract: One of the most sweeping financial regulations in recent history took a step closer to destruction on Thursday, as the House of Representatives voted almost along party lines to repeal the Dodd-Frank Act. Part of the legislative package included a block of the DOL's fiduciary rule set for implementation on Friday. Source: 401kspecialistmag.com, June 2017
Survey Finds Financial Wellness Programs Are Gaining Momentum With EmployersAbstract: A new survey from Charles Schwab reveals that financial wellness programs are quickly becoming a core part of employee benefit and compensation packages. Employers are increasingly finding that financial wellness programs can potentially drive better financial outcomes for employees, promote higher utilization of employer-sponsored savings and investment programs, and lead to productivity gains from a reduction of financial-related stress. Source: 401khelpcenter.com, June 2017
DOL Fiduciary Rule: Ready, Set, Go! But How Far?Abstract: As the rule becomes applicable on June 9, including the impartial conduct standards under the exemptions, the DOL's recent guidance seems to support phased implementation as financial institutions move toward the full compliance date, which is currently scheduled for January 1, 2018. Though the scope of potential changes to the rule and exemptions in advance of January 1 is currently unclear, we expect that additional changes may be considered and potentially made. Source: Morganlewis.com, June 2017
Stepping Out of the Defined Contribution 'Echo Chamber'Abstract: With the competition among DC plan advisers tough and expected to get even tougher as the DOL's fiduciary rule forces inexperienced advisers to exit the market, plan advisers need to step out of the DC "echo chamber" and bring new ideas to clients. What is the DC echo chamber and how can you exit it? Source: Investmentnews.com (registration may be required), June 2017
"Last Minute" Fiduciary Rule Check-In: What Plans and Arrangements Are CoveredAbstract: With the DOL Fiduciary Rule, there may still be confusion about exactly which plans and other arrangements are subject to the Rule. This article describes which plans and arrangements are covered, and which are not. Source: Drinkerbiddle.com, June 2017
Sponsors Implemented Meaningful Changes to 401k Plans Over Past DecadeAbstract: Implementation of automated features in defined contribution plans has skyrocketed over the past decade, driving up plan participation rates, saving rates, and balanced asset allocation strategies, according to the 110-page 'How America Saves 2017' report. Source: Vanguard.com, June 2017
Commitment to Employees' Retirement Security Goes Beyond Working Years for Many Larger 401k Plan SponsorsAbstract: In a new study, T. Rowe Price found broad-based commitment to workers' retirement security based on the attitudes and actions of retirement plan sponsors. In addition to taking responsibility for retirement preparedness, plan sponsors are taking steps to offer several automatic programs, matching contributions, stretch matches, and more to drive successful retirement outcomes. Source: Slideshare.net, June 2017
Hybrids: the Next Generation of QDIAAbstract: Qualified Default Investment Alternatives (QDIAs) are a fairly recent invention but have already become a central component of the corporate defined contribution retirement system. Although target date funds have been the most popular choice to date, recently-introduced hybrid forms of QDIA represent a notable new variation. Source: Russellinvestments.com, June 2017
Why Should My 401k Plan Use a Calendar Plan Year?Abstract: Off-calendar plan years are typically structured to follow the company's fiscal year, with the rationale that the profit-sharing contributions would be tied to fiscal year performance. This logic is somewhat flawed. Source: Rpgconsultants.com, June 2017
Form 5500 UpdateAbstract: As a plan sponsor or financial advisor, it is paramount that you maintain an open line of communication with your TPA or recordkeeper responsible for preparing this filing in order to avoid potential penalties and fines from both the IRS and the DOL. In order to avoid delays in the preparation and filing of the form, here are some things you can do as the plan sponsor to assist your service provider. Source: Legacyrsllc.com, June 2017
Compliance With the ERISA Fiduciary Advice Rule: Beginning June 9, 2017Abstract: The DOL's fiduciary rule significantly expands the categories of persons who are deemed a fiduciary when dealing with retirement investors. It is therefore important that financial services entities who deal with employee benefit plans and IRAs, consider the points reviewed here in connection with compliance with the Rule. Source: Kattenlaw.com, June 2017
Compliance With the ERISA Fiduciary Advice RuleAbstract: The DOL's fiduciary rule affects a broad range of financial services providers who deal with "Protected Investors." This article provides a brief overview of the specific effects of the Rule on investment managers and sponsors of private funds that accept investments from Protected Investors and on investment advisers that provide managed account services to Protected Investors. Source: Kattenlaw.com, June 2017
Defined Contribution Plan Participants' Activities, 2016Abstract: Defined contribution plan assets are a significant component of Americans' retirement assets, representing more than one-quarter of the total retirement market and about one-tenth of US households' aggregate financial assets at year-end 2016. To measure participant-directed changes in DC plans, ICI has been tracking participant activity through recordkeeper surveys since 2008. This 12-page report updates results. Source: Ici.org, June 2017
Audits and Other Form 5500 DevelopmentsAbstract: Changes are afoot for ERISA-mandated Form 5500 filing requirements, though it is unclear at this time when and which changes will actually be implemented. IRS has once again allowed a pass on their compliance questions by omitting them from the 2017 draft forms. Source: Conduent.com, June 2017
Another Court Dismisses Conclusory 401k Fee SuitAbstract: We have now had a second case in Minnesota in which a judge looked under the hood and found no substance there. The Minnesota judge dismissed the case with prejudice (meaning plaintiffs won't have a second bite at the apple.) Is this the beginning of a trend? Source: Cohenbuckmann.com, June 2017
Fiduciary Rule's Future Even More Uncertain as SEC Steps InAbstract: SEC Chairman Jay Clayton in his first policy announcement said the SEC would seek comment on a range of issues related to the DOL's Obama-era rule that aimed to reduce the allegedly conflicted investment advice given to retirement savers. Opponents of the rule may be pleased, but this isn't the first time the head of the SEC has expressed interest in tackling the topic. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
DOL FAQs Guide Compliance Efforts During Fiduciary Rule Transition PeriodAbstract: The Department of Labor has issued guidance in the form of 'Frequently Asked Questions' to help firms and their advisers impacted by the Fiduciary Rule know what is expected on and after June 9, 2017, on and after January 1, 2018, and during the period between. Source: Benefitsbryancave.com, June 2017
Bill Would Repeal Fiduciary Rule, Part of Dodd-FrankAbstract: A bill repealing some of the major provisions of Dodd-Frank and the DOL's fiduciary rule will move to the House floor for a vote this week, something that did not happen in previous sessions for similar legislation. That said, even if the House passes it, its chances in the Senate are bleak. Source: Asppa.org, June 2017
Questioning 401k Lawsuits Based on Investment OutcomesAbstract: No one can predict the excess return relative to a benchmark (Alpha) that is usually associated with active investment management. Then it should come as no surprise that no one can predict the market (beta). Choosing investments is a subjective endeavor. So why are so many legal actions and allegations against Employer Retirement Plans Sponsored Plans based on subjective endeavors with unknown outcomes? Source: 401khelpcenter.com, June 2017
401k Accounts Need to Be Easier to Move From Job to JobAbstract: In short, in most cases as employees move from one large employer with a low-fee 401k to another, the smartest move would be to roll over their balances from the old plan to the new plan. But given the enormous hurdles, participants are much more likely to cash out or move their balances into a high-fee IRA. Cashouts and high fees dramatically reduce balances at retirement. This problem is fixable. Source: Marketwatch.com, June 2017
401k Distribution Rules -- Frequently Asked QuestionsAbstract: If you participate in a 401k plan, you should understand the rules for withdrawing money from your account -- otherwise known as taking a distribution -- even if you don't plan to touch this money for decades. Source: Employeefiduciary.com, June 2017
Tips for Improving Plan Sponsor HomepagesAbstract: A well-designed homepage is among the most essential components of an effective retirement plan sponsor digital experience. As the front door of a plan sponsor portal, a homepage should communicate an assortment of critical plan information and illustrate the overall health of the plans that sponsors administer in a direct and intuitive manner. Contains top tips for improving a plan sponsor homepage. Source: Corporateinsight.com, June 2017
Adopting a New Pre-Approved 403(b) Document? It's a Good Time for a Plan Compliance ReviewAbstract: The restatement of a plan onto a pre-approved document is an opportunity to review the operation of the plan and to make sure that it is being administered in accordance with the terms of the document and applicable legal requirements. Conducting a periodic compliance review is a good idea even if the plan is not being restated, but a plan sponsor certainly wants to make sure that any current errors in the plan's operation are not carried over to a new document. Source: Boutwellfay.com, June 2017
Plan Sponsors Growing Fiduciary Responsibilities for CybersecurityAbstract: This is the slide deck from a presentation on plan sponsors growing fiduciary responsibilities for cybersecurity given at the SPARK Institute's National Conference, June 1-2, 2017. Source: Winstead.com, June 2017
Retirement Savings Milestones: How Much Should You Have Now?Abstract: Measuring progress toward your retirement savings goals can be a challenge. This article shares some savings milestones you can use to see how your current savings stack up against your goals. If your savings fall short of where they should be for your age, some suggestions are offered on how to get caught up. Source: Schwab.com, June 2017
Automatic Savings Plans Drive Better Investment ReturnsAbstract: In the U.S., TDFs have consistently had positive gaps because U.S. investors contribute to their 401k savings with every paycheck, and TDFs reduce bad market timing decisions. Source: Plansponsor.com, June 2017
Technology Reshaping Participant CommunicationsAbstract: A new study finds plan providers are turning to cloud-based technology and other solutions to enhance targeted communications toward different age groups. Source: Plansponsor.com, June 2017
Lawsuit Filed for Retirement Plans Using United of Omaha GICsAbstract: The lawsuit alleges United of Omaha breached its ERISA duties by improperly exercising its discretionary authority "to maximize its own compensation and retain large profits rather than crediting the participants and beneficiaries of the plans with appropriate returns." Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
SEC Chair Clayton's Recent Fiduciary Comments Are RevealingAbstract: The SEC chair issued only a brief statement on his intention to work with DOL officials on reforming conflict of interest regulations, but his language is revealing. Source: Planadviser.com, June 2017
Managers of Defined Contribution Benefits Regain Steam in 2016Abstract: Defined contribution money managers posted record assets under management last year of $5.95 trillion, up 8.6% from 2015, according to the latest survey of money managers by Pensions & Investments. Source: Pionline.com, June 2017
Partial Victories to Two Universities in Their Motions to Dismiss Code Section 403(b) Fee LitigationAbstract: District courts in Georgia and North Carolina, respectively, ruled on defendants' motions under Henderson v. Emory University and Clark v. Duke University. Although the defendants in these cases has some success in eliminating certain causes of action, other causes of actions involving the payment of excessive fees and use of multiple recordkeepers will continue through litigation. Source: Mwe.com, June 2017
401k Recordkeepers Making Big Bets on Managed AccountsAbstract: Fidelity Investments and Empower Retirement are making big bets on 401k managed accounts and competing defined contribution plan recordkeepers are poised to follow suit. What isn't yet clear is if these bets will pay off for retirement plans and their participants. Source: Investmentnews.com (registration may be required), June 2017
SEC Jumps Back Into Fiduciary BrouhahaAbstract: The Securities and Exchange Commission announced that it is again seeking public comment on investment-advice standards, restarting its consideration of a fiduciary duty regulation while a similar measure promulgated by the Labor Department is undergoing a reassessment. Source: Investmentnews.com (registration may be required), June 2017
IRS Proposed Regulations Would Permit Forfeitures to Fund QNECsAbstract: The IRS published proposed regulations, which amend the definitions of qualified non-elective contributions (QNECs) and qualified matching contributions (QMACs). The questions and answers here explain the importance of QNECs and QMACs and how the proposed changes are beneficial to 401k plan sponsors. Source: Foxrothschild.com, June 2017
Chevron Again Defeats Lawsuit Over Its $19 Billion 401kAbstract: Chevron Corp. defeated for the second time a proposed class action accusing it of breaching fiduciary duties by allowing poorly performing investments that allegedly carried high management fees in its $19 billion 401k plan. Source: Bna.com (registration may be required), June 2017
DC AUM Totaled Nearly $6T in 2016Abstract: Defined contribution plan assets under management (AUM) reached $5.95 trillion in 2016, says a recent survey of money managers. Source: Asppa.org, June 2017
Improvement Opportunity Checklist for DC Plan SponsorsAbstract: While education, financial wellness and improving participants outcomes are top of mind for defined contribution plan sponsors, operations and compliance come first due to increased scrutiny by DOL examiners, new rules and the wave of 401k and 403(b) lawsuits. Source: 401ktv.com, June 2017
DOL Rule Dramatically Changing 401k Advice, Education and Relationships with Providers and AdvisorsAbstract: Now that we know that the DOL fiduciary rule will go into effect June 9th, 401k and 403(b) plan sponsors need to start paying attention to the likely change in the relationship with their recordkeepers and advisors especially those providing investment education and advice. Source: 401ktv.com, June 2017
How the DOL Created a 401k Fiduciary MonsterAbstract: The linchpin in the whole fiduciary rule mess isn't regulation, but rather deregulation, at least according to Eugene Scalia, son of the late Supreme Court justice. A former solicitor for the Department of Labor under George W. Bush, Scalia took to the pages of The Wall Street Journal to decry what he sees as the department's overreach, referring the fiduciary rule as a regulatory Godzilla. Source: 401kspecialistmag.com, June 2017 Looking for earlier information? Go to our Archive. 401khelpcenter.com, LLC is not the author of the material referenced in this digest unless specifically noted. The material referenced was created, published, maintained, or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of 401khelpcenter.com, LLC. 401khelpcenter.com, LLC does not endorse, approve, certify, or control this material and does not guarantee or assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, efficacy, or timeliness of the material. Use of any information obtained from this material is voluntary, and reliance on it should only be undertaken after an independent review of its accuracy, completeness, efficacy, and timeliness. Reference to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, service mark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not constitute or imply endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by 401khelpcenter.com. Hyperlinks in this document are provided as a convenience and we disclaim any responsibility for information, services or products found on websites linked hereto. | |||||||
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