February 24, 2010

Tracking Records

This issue we focus on performance: adviser performance, investment performance, and plan performance.

Reported by Alison Cooke

In Best of the Best (page 44), we introduce the finalists for our third annual Retirement Plan Adviser of the Year award, as well as the best in a new category for 2006, the Retirement Plan Adviser Team of the Year. These finalists are a truly impressive group of performers who have each made a noticeable and significant difference for the better with the plans they advise. We also present our list of the most successful advisers from our nominee pool in terms of the most plans advised, as well as the teams and individuals with the most assets under management.We’ll unveil the winners in our next issue—and at the 401(k) Summit in February.

As for investment performance, our cover story and survey look “Beyond Performance” (page 28), specifically at factors advisers consider—and should consider—when evaluating funds for a defined contribution plan lineup. Considering the expanding array of tools and data available—and the increasing focus on fiduciary responsibility—you might be surprised at just how short the list of criteria being considered is.

Additionally, despite that expanding number of tools, adviser respondents evidenced a strong affinity for just a couple of investment analytic tools they use to select and monitor funds. However, there are many other options available to advisers that can help expand both the quantity and quality of that evaluation. Check out your options in “Finding a Good Fit” (page 62).

In this issue, we also look at two ways in which advisers interact with plans. “Shock Treatment” (page 74) discusses the issues that arise in educating plan participants about the need for proper retirement saving. How do you tell a participant that he needs to increase his retirement saving—and then actually get him to take action to do that? In “Who Needs an Adviser” (page 56), you will find ways to add appreciated value to a retirement plan—even in the emerging generation of “automatic” plan designs.

Inside, you’ll also find valuable insights from regular columnists Quana Jew and Steff Chalk, as well as the PLANSPONSOR Institute’s own Nevin Adams, all of whom will help you build your practice, and improve and enhance your own individual performance as a retirement plan adviser.

Whether your focus is personal performance, investment performance, or plan performance, I am sure you will find an array of useful tools and ideas in this issue.