New Perspectives

Participant Response to Fee Disclosure

In October 2012 most plan participants will receive their first statement in which fees are clearly disclosed.  How do they feel now that they understand the fees?  Do they believe the fees are too high?  Will they change their investment allocation? 

Participant Advisor Usage

How do plan participants make decisions regarding their retirement plan assets?  Do they work with an outside advisor to determine the appropriate asset allocation or rely upon the advisors provided by the plan sponsor? 

Investment Education and Advice

While plan participants in 2012 consider themselves fairly knowledgeable about investments compared to just a few years ago, their opinions regarding the tools and communication materials available by plan providers indicates they are somewhat lackluster. 

Meeting the Insurance Needs of the Mass Affluent

This report, based upon research with over 4,000 Mass Affluent households, identifies the types of products already owned by these individuals and provides financial providers with details regarding the types of individuals who may be under-insured and how to meet their needs.

Use of Mobile Technology and Tablets by 401(k) and Defined Contribution Plan Participants

Plan participants are increasingly accessing their personal account information via their Smartphones and mobile tablets.  How long will it be before accessing their plan information via these devices becomes an expectation?  How should plan providers strategically assess how to respond to this changing environment

Personal Trust Update 2011

Trust Update 2011 is an analysis of FDIC data supplemented with information from Spectrem studies. This report takes a view of trends in total personal trust assets and accounts, managed versus non-managed personal trust assets as well the status of common/collective funds. Institutional assets are identified when possible.

Use of Social Media by 401(k) and Defined Contribution Plan Participants

The use of Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are becoming increasingly common in social interactions as well as within the workforce.  While predominantly a tool of younger investors, even older households are beginning to use these mediums as communications tools.