TIAA-CREF Adds Fiduciary Services Option

A news release said this offering builds upon TIAA-CREF’s existing investment-related fiduciary services, which include education and support for plan sponsors to meet their fiduciary responsibilities around investment menu selection and ongoing monitoring on their own or in collaboration with a third-party adviser. As part of the new service, Ibbotson has created three model investment menus for plan sponsors to choose from, as well as an approved list of investments for those who want to create their own menus.   

The service also includes:  

• Online access to investment information and reporting;  
• Quarterly conference calls providing an overview of current economic and market information; and 
• Quarterly watch list providing insight on investment options that may require attention.  

Plan sponsors who choose this service will receive a signed advisory services agreement from Ibbotson acknowledging its fiduciary responsibility as it relates to the services provided.  

“We want to help plan sponsors implement a prudent process that maximizes retirement outcomes for their participants. In addition to working with independent advisers, this new service allows us to provide yet another option for clients to manage their fiduciary obligations,” said Tim Walsh, Managing Director of Investment Services, in the announcement.