BCG Launches Plan Evaluation Service

June 20, 2013 (PLANSPONSOR.com) – Benefit Consultants Group (BCG) launched its 401(k) X-Ray service for retirement plan sponsors and advisers.

The 401(k) X-Ray service will provide:

  • Consulting and guidance;
  • An evaluation of all elements of a plan;
  • Suggestions to fit a company’s objectives; and
  • A detailed report with a recommendation for any changes.

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The service presents a technical review of a plan prepared by an American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA) Qualified 401(k) Administrator. According to BCG, it also breaks down the various components in a retirement plan and creates a step-by-step approach to help present the best retirement plan.

“We created 401(k) X-Ray to assist business owners and advisers in optimizing their plan’s performance and to minimize their fiduciary liability,” said Beau Adams, executive vice president of Business Development at BCG. “The 401(k) X-Ray shows a transparent view of the various components in a retirement plan. We’ll show you what your plan is doing well, but most importantly, where it could perform better. We will provide a thorough examination of your plan and identify areas for improvement. We will also identify areas to reduce your fiduciary liability.”

The service is available online here. For questions, contact 800-524-401k and choose option 3, or e-mail 401kxray@bcgbenefits.com.

Invesco Launches Bond Portfolio

June 20, 2013 (PLANSPONSOR.com) – Invesco PowerShares Capital Management LLC has launched PowerShares Global Short Term High Yield Bond Portfolio (PGHY).

PGHY provides investors access to short-term U.S. dollar-denominated, high-yield debt that is issued globally. This includes sovereign, quasi-government and corporate bond securities. PGHY has an expense ratio of 0.35% and is expected to issue monthly distributions.

The PGHY, which is based on the DB Global Short Maturity High Yield Bond Index, generally will invest at least 80% of its total assets in bonds included in the Index. The Index tracks the performance of U.S. dollar-denominated, short-term, non-investment grade bonds with three years or less to maturity. These bonds are issued by U.S. and foreign corporations, as well as by supranational, sovereign or sub-sovereign government entities. PGHY and the Index are rebalanced quarterly and re-weighted annually.

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“We are excited to launch a timely product solution for income investors looking for a potential protection against rising interest rates,” said Lorraine Wang, Invesco PowerShares senior vice president of new product development. “The PowerShares Global Short Term High Yield Bond Portfolio provides a convenient way for investors to gain exposure to a portfolio of high-yield bonds from issuers around the globe, while taking on a relatively low level of interest rate risk.”

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