U.S. equity markets rose 4.1% (Russell 3000) in the second quarter as the Federal Reserve reversed their outlook from multiple rate hikes in 2019 to likely cutting rates. International equities rallied as well, posting a 3.0% gain over the quarter (MSCI ACWI ex U.S.). The U.S. fixed income market was up 3.1% for the quarter … More Q2 2019 Market Review
Synopsis Anthem plan participants alleged that plan fiduciaries did not perform due diligence on funds being used in the plan Parties reached a settlement that includes more than $23 million awarded to participants in addition to certain plan enhancements including: requirement to provide a participant communication on money market funds; conduct a recordkeeper RFP within … More Anthem Settlement
Welcome to Hey Joel! This forum answers plan sponsor questions from all over the country by our in-house former practicing ERISA attorney. Hey Joel, One of my current employees recently received a notice from Social Security saying that they might be entitled to a retirement benefit. Is it my responsibility to track this money down? … More Hey Joel! One of my current employees recently received a notice from Social Security saying they might be entitled to a retirement benefit. Is it my responsibility to track this money down?
As you bask in the glory of summer over the next couple of months, don’t forget the three Fs that define this cherished season — fun, Fourth of July, and fiduciary! While you’re enjoying the fruits of summer, don’t forget your fiduciary responsibilities! Ask yourself the following questions to make sure you are on top … More Summer Homework for Fiduciaries
Americans are not saving enough for retirement. To address this issue, a new retirement-related bill is making its way through Congress, The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act. Its purpose is to help Americans save more for retirement by creating new rules to expand and preserve retirement savings, improve the administration of … More SECURE Act – Helping Americans Save for Retirement
Welcome to Hey Joel! This forum answers plan sponsor questions from all over the country by our in-house former practicing ERISA attorney. Hey Joel, Should stable value information be included in our investment policy statement? ~ Paranoid in Portland Dear Paranoid, The cash or principal preservation alternatives can be quite varied in scope. As a … More Hey Joel! Should Stable Value Information Be Included In Our Investment Policy Statement?
Adapt to the shifting priorities of modern workers to attract and retain the best talent Longevity, demographic changes and technological innovation have revolutionized the world of work. As many employers face a coming wave of baby-boomer retirements, the resulting gaps in unique skills, experience and institutional knowledge may be difficult to fill. Keeping mature workers … More The Evolving Workscape
Millennials – they’ve infiltrated the workplace and bring expertise in social media, individuality, technology and hipster bars. But, what do they know about saving for retirement? Typically, younger people don’t make retirement savings a priority. Living expenses, student debt, rent or house payments, and other day-to-day expenses mean that retirement savings take a back seat. … More Millennials Know It All. But, Are They Saving for Retirement?
Welcome to Hey Joel! This forum answers plan sponsor questions from all over the country by our in-house former practicing ERISA attorney. Hey Joel, What’s the appropriate number of members and positions for a retirement plan committee? ~ Plannin’ in Pennsylvania Dear Plannin’, There is no specific guidance on the appropriate number of committee … More Hey Joel! What’s the Appropriate Number of Members and Positions for a Retirement Plan Committee?
Many plan sponsors struggle with deciding how many investment options to offer in their retirement plans. While people generally like to have lots of options when making other decisions, having too many plan options can potentially lead to poor investment decisions by plan participants. In addition, increasing plan options can also increase plan costs, as … More How Many Investment Options Should You Offer?