Compliance April 6, 2011

DoL Seeks Comments on Electronic Disclosure

The U.S. Department of Labor is soliciting public comments that address the possibility of expanding or modifying current rules about electronic distribution of employee benefit plan information.
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“Some workers and retirees may not be sufficiently computer literate to receive information electronically or have reasonable access to the Internet, and others may simply prefer traditional paper disclosure,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for EBSA Phyllis C. Borzi.  “But in some instances, electronic disclosure may be just as effective as paper-based communications and could save employers and service providers money. “  

The request for information sets forth 30 specific questions on a broad range of topics related to electronic distribution of benefit plan information.  The department said it hopes to hear from plan participants and beneficiaries; employers and other plan sponsors; plan administrators; plan service providers; health insurance issuers; members of the financial community; and the general public.    

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In addition to responding to specific questions contained in the request for information, interested parties are encouraged to address any other relevant matters.    

The request for information will be published in the Federal Register on April 7 and can be viewed at http://s.dol.gov/E2.  Comments are due by June 6.
Products April 6, 2011

7Twelve Advisors Introduces Balanced Fund

7Twelve Advisors, LLC launched the 7Twelve Balanced Fund.
Reported by

The fund seeks to provide superior risk-adjusted returns when compared to the bond and equity markets within a balanced fund structure.  

The firm’s name, 7Twelve, refers to a diversified investment strategy of seven asset classes: U.S. stocks, non-U.S. stocks, U.S. bonds, non-U.S. bonds, real estate, commodities and cash, and further sub-divided into twelve equally weighted index-based funds.  

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The fund’s assets are equally weighted, so performance does not rely on forecasting or timing. The managers believe that index-based funds and passive management are more reliable investment methods than typical actively managed funds, according to the announcement. Assets are rebalanced on a periodic basis.  

For more information about the 7Twelve Balanced Fund, visit http://www.7TwelveBalancedFund.com.

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