More advisor practices are adopting the use of model portfolios to help advisors better serve clients and develop their business, according to a new report from Cerulli. In fact, the industry’s slow and steady transition toward a financial planning-oriented service model will be a powerful impetus... READ MORE

In comments to the Department of Labor (DOL), the American Retirement Association (ARA) argues that proposed changes to the QPAM Exemption would “needlessly” disrupt plan relationships and increase costs for plan sponsors and participants—with no obvious corresponding benefit. The ARA’s letter... READ MORE

The U.S. Department of Labor has proposed a new rule on classifying employees and independent contractors that seeks to return to a previous interpretation, which may impact independent financial advisors. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) released Oct. 11 would modify Wage and Hour... READ MORE

Though final regulations are still pending, the Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have essentially reaffirmed guidance for DC plans on required minimum distributions (RMDs), addressing questions surrounding the 10-year distribution rules under the SECURE Act and providing... READ MORE

Shortly before recessing for the mid-term elections, the House of Representatives approved legislation opposed by the American Retirement Association that would prohibit arbitration and discretionary clauses in employer-sponsored benefit plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (... READ MORE

Findings from a new study show that the majority of retirees and pre-retirees are not financially prepared for retirement and lack sufficient savings to fully retire at age 65. According to Disconnected: Perceptions vs. Reality in Retirement Planning from The Stanford Center on Longevity (SCL) and... READ MORE

While the use of employer-sponsored programs for investment advice has increased over the past decade, a new report reveals that there are wide generational differences in the usage rates.   According to Hearts & Wallets’ “Advice & Technology: Opportunities for Hybrid Models, Workplace... READ MORE

After waiting for more than a year since her nomination was first announced, Lisa Gomez has finally been confirmed to lead the Employee Benefits Security Administration.   In what appeared to be a party-line vote, with several senators not voting, the U.S. Senate on Sept. 29 confirmed the... READ MORE

Health savings account assets have grown at a 31% annualized growth rate over the past 15 years, and while the industry has improved its offerings in that time, more can be done, according to a new report.   The rapid adoption of high deductible health plans (HDHPs) has helped grow the still-young... READ MORE