The defined contribution (DC) recordkeeping industry is at a tipping point. Driven by fee compression, rising costs, and automated RFP processes, many providers face existential threats. Larger firms with scale, proprietary investments, and cross-selling power dominate, while smaller players struggle to compete. As automation accelerates consolidation, recordkeepers must embrace participant-centric models and new technologies, or risk irrelevance.

On May 28, 2025, the DOL reversed its 2022 warning against crypto in 401(k) plans, restoring fiduciary discretion. While not an endorsement of digital assets, the move signals a shift toward regulatory neutrality and reinforces fiduciaries’ responsibility to prudently assess all investment options.

A well-executed RFP is more than a compliance step, it’s a strategic tool for defined contribution plan sponsors to benchmark fees, improve services, and protect participant outcomes. As plans grow more complex, periodic due diligence through the RFP process ensures providers remain aligned with fiduciary goals and regulatory standards.

Many foundation and non-profit organizations face significant resource constraints, making it difficult to effectively manage their...

This is the fourth of a series of articles that describe non-qualified deferred compensation plans (NQDC) that are available to...

This is the third of a series of articles that describe non-qualified deferred compensation plans (NQDC) that are available to non-profit...

This is the second of a series of articles that describe non-qualified deferred compensation plans (NQDC) that are available to...

This series of articles describe nonqualified deferred compensation plans (NQDC) that are available to non-profit employers.  Qualified...

The Investment Policy Statement and Spending Policy are written specifically for the foundation that incorporates the investment...

Money market funds are under the SEC microscope again with significant reforms being contemplated by the SEC. Based on how money market fund

There are several fiduciary issues that a plan sponsor should consider when adding a brokerage window to their 401(k) or 403(b) plan. ...

On March 8, 2022, President Biden released an Executive Order on Ensuring Responsible Development of Digital Assets . On March 9, 2022,...

A recent Morningstar, Inc. analysis in 4Q2021 resulted in the ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) label being removed from more...

The DOL continues to focus on how climate change, social and governance factors (ESG), may impact ERISA-covered retirement plans and has...

Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) 2007‐1 FAB 2007‐1 provides a detailed summary of the duties involved in selecting and monitoring a...

A plan sponsor should consider several features and services for a well‐designed managed account program: Independent Professional...

The decision to use an advice provider or managed account provider involves fiduciary responsibility in the prudent selection,...

Source: American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA), October 13, 2021. The Department of Labor released a proposal in...

The quarter was mixed for fixed income returns. High-frequency data indicates that economic activity is surging, aggregate household...

Many defined contribution plan administrators offer brokerage window options. If a plan sponsor decides to add this feature, the...