In Practice

As more employers embrace the new “gig” or “flex” economy, the ranks of part-timers, including independent contractors, will continue to rise. Will employers change their retirement offerings?

Financial services firms are increasingly adopting technological tools, but consumers seem to still prefer a human face behind the machines.

An increased interest among employees for a full suite of health and financial wellness benefits is sparking employers’ interest.

Some firms also report handling certain rule preparations or implementation activities poorly in some ways and well in other ways.

Among employers offering Roth 401(k) savings programs, 40% now offer matching contributions.

The system engages fiduciaries and advisers throughout the process, allowing them to see their plan investments and understand why each fund is becoming more or less aligned with...

Eighty-three percent of advisers believe a fiduciary standard will benefit the growth of their practice, regardless of the status of the DOL rule.

Eighty-five percent believe they will be able to have the lifestyle they aspire to in retirement.

The amount of employers offering Roth contributions in their 401(k) plans rose by 50%, according to a study by T. Rowe Price.

Cost and oversight are cited as main obstacles.

Nearly three-quarters (72%) of Millennials developed their written financial plans with professional help, Charles Schwab finds.

While most employers would disagree if Congress were to reduce pre-tax savings limits, 85% surveyed would continue offering a plan.  

Most older Americans know very little about annuities, but the majority believe a source of guaranteed lifetime income in retirement is important, according to a study by the...

Ascensus found that employees who decided to enroll in their employers’ retirement programs after receiving targeted communication deferred on average 6.24% of pay.

The aim is to help advisers have more nuanced conversations with their clients and for sponsors to see how they compare to other companies in their industry.

CFP Board released a draft of proposed revisions to its Standards of Professional Conduct for a 60-day public comment period, running through August 21, 2017.

The recent study suggests advisers base their decisions on company goals and client needs to maximize potential growth. 

“Advisers who embrace technology—especially solutions to more efficiently handle tedious recurring client-service tasks—are going to be the ones who scale, grow and ultimately win.”

A recent study finds that out of all generation groups, Millennials are the most likely to choose financial security over vacation, cars and smartphones. 

In a world of heightened fee pressure and low long-term returns, asset managers are redesigning widely used TDFs and some are turning to strategic beta.