Products June 13, 2007

Program Helps Advisers with 401(k) ETF Adoption

BenefitStreet, Inc. has launched a new program designed to help advisers introduce exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to 401(k) plans.
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BenefitStreet’s Advisor Connection is a training and support program aimed at providing advisers with the best information and expertise possible to help them establish ETFs as a 401(k) plan option, according to a press release. The firm’s previously announced ETF 401(k) platform allows participants to invest directly in ETFs, rather than through a collective trust (See BenefitStreet Offers Barclays’ iShares on New 401(k) Platform).
Advisor Connection offers educational and support services separated into four levels of commitment. At the basic level, advisers have access to Web-based training tools, training videos, and information that can be shared with plan sponsors, the announcement said. At the highest level, advisers are provided a dedicated account manager who will assist them with plan sponsor visits and personalized service.
“This program allows advisors to select a level of support which is consistent with their strategic plans for serving clients in this area,’ said Jim Drury, CEO of BenefitStreet, in the release.
For more information, visit www.benefitstreet.com.
Products June 13, 2007

Calvert Launches Alternative Energy Fund

In response to a survey showing that investors are concerned about climate change and alternative energy, Calvert has introduced the Calvert Global Alternative Energy Fund.
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The fund invests in a broad universe of U.S. and non-U.S. stocks, seeking companies that are alternative energy market leaders as well as those building a significant presence in the sector, Calvert said in a press release. KBC Asset Management International, a Dublin-based firm, will be sub-adviser to the new fund.
“The Calvert Global Alternative Energy Fund is a sector-specific fund that offers exposure to alternative energy with attractive diversification potential for both socially responsible (SRI) and non-SRI global investors,” said Steve Falci, Calvert’s Chief Investment Officer, Equities, in the press release.
The “Calvert Climate Change/Alternative Energy Survey” found that more than three out of four U.S. investors (76%) are concerned “about global warming and what climate change could mean in terms of major changes’ during their lifetime and those of their children and grandchildren. In addition, the release said nearly nine out of 10 respondents (85%) agreed that alternative energy investments – such as wind, solar and other sources of clean power – represent a dual opportunity to support the environment and generate profit at the same time.
However, Calvert found that only one in five investors who use a financial professional responded affirmatively when asked if they had discussed investing in alternative energy with a financial adviser.
More information on the Calvert Global Alternative Energy Fund and an Executive Summary of Calvert’s survey, conducted for Calvert by Opinion Research Corporation (ORC) and polled 1,094 investors, can be found at www.calvert.com.

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