Investment Instruments

Aspiriant is reaching out to affluent investors through an animated feature on its website. The feature guides visitors through the questions and information they should consider before selecting a financial advisor.

AnnuitySpecs.com says sales of FIAs were up 13 percent, with a year-ending total of $8 billion.

Towers Watson research indicates companies are still committed to retaining DB benefits for new employees, as a recruitment and retention tool.

The Plan Sponsor Council of Americas 2012 403(b) survey found that more plans offered automatic enrollment in 2011 compared to 2010 and nearly half offered target-date funds as their default investment option.

Pacific Life expanded its list of variable annuity products with Fidelity VIP FundsManager 60% and First Trust/Dow Jones Dividend & Income Allocation Portfolio.

Though it can be helpful in wealth transfer, retirement advisors have been avoiding conversations about life insurance with their clients.