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Products April 30, 2009
iShares Helps Advisers Spot Competitively Priced ETFs in 401(k)s
iShares has launched the "iShares in 401(k) Program" to help financial advisers better utilize exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as standard investment options.
Reported by Fred Schneyer
iShares said its new offering identifies administrative providers and networks that offer competitively priced access to ETFs in 401(k) accounts, making it easier for financial advisers, according to a news release.
iShares has identified PAi and Ascensus as the first Preferred Providers and Mid Atlantic Financial Platforms as the first Preferred Network, and plans to selectively add more providers and networks in the future, the release said.
Preferred Providers are administrators that offer fully bundled ETF 401(k) solutions to financial advisers. Preferred Networks are custodians or technology providers that enable all the administrators on their network to offer ETF 401(k) plans.
“Financial advisers and their clients are increasingly requesting access to ETFs in 401(k) plans, but many financial advisers struggle to find an administrator that can effectively deliver ETFs,” said Darek Wojnar, head of iShares Product Research and Strategy, in the news release. “iShares is making it easier for financial advisers to learn about effective ETF 401(k) solutions while remaining focused on their main priority of staying closely connected with their clients and portfolios.”