For the first time in over a year, more than two-thirds of businesses taking part in a survey reported improved financials, more hiring and a readiness to bounce back when the pandemic allows. As they do so, a greater portion of companies also plan to increase the benefits they offer to employees.
The survey of 500 business leaders conducted in June by Principal found that half of large and small businesses were hiring workers, up from a third in March.
The survey also found that a greater percentage of businesses plan to increase benefits in the next 12 months. The survey tracks 18 different employee benefits, and the latest survey showed that a higher percentage of businesses surveyed plans to increase each of the 18 benefits over the next 12 months.
Telehealth was the most popular benefit in terms of planned increases.
Moreover, most businesses said they had either expanded digital access to employee benefits, added it for the first time, or plan to do so.
Six in 10 businesses surveyed said they currently offer financial wellness benefits or a program, and more than three-fourths agree that financial wellness programs help employees prepare for retirement.
While industry statistics pointing to a succession crisis can cause alarm, advisor-owners should be free to consider a middle path between staying solo and catching the surging wave of M&A.
New joint research by T. Rowe Price, MIT, and Stanford University finds more diverse asset allocations among older participants.
With its asset pipeline bursting past $13 billion, Farther is looking to build more momentum with three new managing directors.
A Department of Labor proposal to scrap a regulatory provision under ERISA could create uncertainty for fiduciaries, the trade association argues.
"We continue to feel confident about our ability to capture 90%," LPL CEO Rich Steinmeier told analysts during the firm's 2nd quarter earnings call.
Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.
Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.
