October 2025 Newsletter
Rising Markets Don’t Lift All Participants
Markets have been flirting with record highs on a regular basis, but not all employees are riding the wave toward retirement readiness. According to Vanguard’s How America Saves 2025, participation and/or balances still lag for low-income workers, young employees, women, and those with short tenure. These segments face unique hurdles that statistical averages may conceal.
Forward-thinking plan sponsors can...
PEPs Gaining Ground, But One Size May Not Fit All
The Department of Labor (DOL) is asking for public input on how to support small businesses that want to adopt pooled employer plans (PEPs), a signal that regulators see these arrangements as one way to help close the coverage gap. PEPs have gained significant traction since they first became effective in 2021.
PEPs expand on the MEP model by addressing two features that previously...
Other Benefits Developments
Prescription drug costs remain one of the biggest challenges for both employers and employees. The executive orders call for greater transparency and accountability in drug pricing. For plan sponsors, this is a reminder to regularly review plan design, negotiate with vendors, and explore tools that can help employees access medications at lower costs. A proactive approach here not only protects your budget but also shows employees you’re invested in their well-being.
Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are also under the microscope. Their practices often feel...