The eVolution of 401 (k) Plans-Opportunities and Challenges
Abstract
The eVolution of 401(k) Plans Opportunities and Challenges
The e-transformation of 401(k) plans will unlock $1.2 trillion in assets from the small plan market and improve rollover retention rates translating into a $196 billion opportunity.
In a new report The eVolution of 401(k) Plans, Celent Communications traces the evolution of the 401(k) marketplace and analyzes the impact the Internet is having on plan providers, sponsors, and participants. From detailing the must-have features for todays e401(k) offerings, to profiling the strategies of six leading e401(k) providers, this report analyzes the trends and strategic implications facing401(k) plan providers. Todays winning e401(k) platforms offer 1) wide investment choice; 2) automated recordkeeping and administration; 3) easy-to use, feature-rich sponsor and participant web sites; and, 4) multiple front-end connections. To meet these demands, Celent expects the top 401(k) providers to build out these capabilities in an integrated approach, while smaller players will look to forge partnerships in order to offer a competitive product.The small plan market will be the most affected by the advent of e401(k) plans. The plans are easy to administer, cost-effective and provide investment options that make them attractive to the small business owner. In turn, Internet technology allows the e401(k) providers to service the market segment more profitably. Within the under 100-employee segment, small plan market penetration will climb from 20% to 40% by 2003, says Pamela Brewster, Celent analyst and author of the report. The addition of new plans as well as plan conversions to the new e401(k) platforms will allow providers to tap into $1.2 trillion in potential assets.
Celent also predicts that 401(k) plans will become conduits to build lifetime relationships with participants and convert those into cross-sell opportunities into IRAs, brokerage accounts, insurance, and more. Educational tools, online advice, automatic rollovers and personalized communication, among other features, will arm providers with the means to build lifetime relationships. One expected benefit from these changes will be an increase in rollover retention rates. At current average rates of 20%, Celent states an estimated $196 billion in revenues is being forfeited.The features embedded in the new e401(k)s should boost these rates.
A Table of Contents is available online.
of Celent Communication's Retail Banking, Retail Securities & Investments and Property/Casualty Insurance research services can download the report electronically by clicking on the icon to the left.
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