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Barstein: In the DC World, 3’s a Charm

There are countless acronyms that advisors need to know, from types of investments, to regulatory organizations, to the kinds of plans they offer. But as Fred Barstein notes in the most recent issue of NAPA Net the Magazine, many of the major features of the DC plan market are united not by a phrase, but by a number: 3.

Summarizing the overall DC plan marketplace, Barstein notes that the number 3 has particular significance, from the number of major entities in the DC world (plan sponsors, service providers and advisors) to the distinct markets that 401(k) advisors serve (mega plans, micro plans, advisor sold plans).

Barstein also sees three tiers of plan advisors: elite, core and emerging.

Within the DCIO market, he notes, three distinct tiers have formed: “those with viable TDFs and passive strategies; those with significant assets, value add and intellectual capital; and those without” either feature.

In addition to Barstein’s regular “Inside the Marketplace” column, the Summer issue of NAPA Net the Magazine highlights what the new generation of plan advisors are thinking — including the 2015 NAPA “Young Guns” list — along with a recap of this year’s NAPA 401(k) Summit in San Diego, and the cover story, which examines five key factors that advisors should look at when determining whether longevity-planning options are right for their clients. The Summer issue also features regular contributors Nevin Adams, Warren Cormier, David Levine, Brian Graff, Don Trone, Steff Chalk, Jerry Bramlett and NAPA President Joe DeNoyior — and marks the debut of a new column on financial wellness by Jania Stout.

To view Batrstein’s column, click here and select “Breaking Down the DC Market by Three.” And to view a pdf of the full 48-page issue, click here.

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