| | Benefits & Administration | | Mercer Encourages DB Sponsors to Act on Funded Status Improvements | | Most defined benefit (DB) plan sponsors enjoyed significant funded status improvements in the first three quarters of 2018, according to Mercer. However, the beginning of the fourth quarter reminded plan sponsors of the potential equity volatility inherent to plan funded status performance and continued equity risk moving forward, including concerns of a potentially less accommodative Federal Reserve. Mercer says this highlights the question, “When is the right time to bank on funded status improvements?” In its “Top 10 Defined Benefit Areas of Focus for 2019,” Mercer suggests that whether a DB plan has a formal glide path in place or not, plan sponsors should take a fresh look at their current situation and risk posture and consider monitoring funded status more frequently to ensure opportunities are not missed, among other things.Read more > | | Leader Involvement in Physical Wellness Programs Improves Participation and Cost Savings | | Findings derived from the 2018 Progress Report for the Health Enhancement Research Organization (HERO) Health and Well-being Best Practices Scorecard in Collaboration with Mercer show that well-being initiatives fare better when leaders are visibly supportive and involved. In particular, companies reported better outcomes when leaders recognize employees who have achieved success and when leaders actively participate in health and well-being initiatives themselves—two relatively simple and low-cost ways to boost performance. The report also found offering targeted lifestyle management services and having a formal, written strategic plan in place for well-being improve physical wellness program outcomes.Read more > |
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