Wealth Advisors Are Coming for the 401(k) Market
Retirement plan advisors (RPAs) and recordkeepers have a real challenge on their hands: wealth advisors are coming for their turf. And honestly, it’s not hard...
Investments
Vestwell’s $385M Raise Signals a New Phase for Defined Contribution Plans
Vestwell’s $385 million funding round signals accelerating momentum to modernize the defined contribution market. The firm plans to acquire 27,000 Guideline plans, expand AI capabilities,...
The Illusion of 401(k)s — And What Comes Next
Defined contribution plans like 401(k)s and 403(b)s may appear to be fixed retirement vehicles, but in reality they are constantly shifting collections of individual accounts. ...
Finding the Middle Path Between Advisors and Record Keepers
Growing tension exists between retirement plan advisors and record keepers as both expand into participant financial services. As defined contribution plan economics tighten — driven...
When “Co-opetition” Becomes Co-option: Why Advisor Independence Still Matters
The relationship between retirement plan advisors and recordkeepers has always involved some natural tension. But as both sides expand into overlapping territory, plan sponsors need...
SECURE 2.0 Self-Certification: Why Easier Hardship Withdrawals Are Driving Plan Leakage
SECURE 2.0’s self-certification rules mark a consequential shift in how hardship withdrawals are accessed, with meaningful implications for plan sponsors. By eliminating the need for...
In-Plan Retirement Income: From Exploration to Execution
For years, in-plan retirement income solutions have generated plenty of interest but limited action. That’s about to change. The Institutional Retirement Income Council (IRIC) is...
Student Loan Wage Garnishment Is Back and Employers Are on the Front Line
After years on pause, student loan wage garnishment has officially returned. The Department of Education confirmed that garnishment notices went out the week of Jan....
Recordkeeper Switches Can Go Wrong Fast. Is Your Plan Protected?
Switching recordkeepers might seem like a straightforward administrative move, but when things go sideways, the consequences can be severe. A recent lawsuit against a Florida...
Co-Manufactured Target-Date Funds: Lower Fees, But at What Cost?
Fee pressure is reshaping how 401(k) plans cover administrative costs, and plan sponsors—especially those overseeing smaller plans—are increasingly turning to a new breed of target-date...
