Monday, December 18, 2006


Tis the Season for All Pension Fiduciaries ...



Dear Santa:

I've been a good pension fiduciary this year so I hope you remember me in a few days. It's been a tough year, with 2007 definitely looking grim. Do I merit a few extra brownie points for tackling my work with a smile and "can do" attitude? I'm trying hard but each day seems to bring a bundle of new challenges.

Here's the rest of my wish list.

1. Ten percent or better equity returns

2. Conflict-free service providers who really try to understand what problems we need to solve

3. Regulatory guidance that promotes a better understanding of how to comply with the Pension Protection Act of 2006

4. Recognition that my job is important

5. Liability insurance protection that helps me do a good job without worrying about significant personal exposure

6. Clarity about the incremental risks associated with strategies such as liability-driven investing, portable alpha and plan design

7. No major hedge fund blow-ups

8. Consultants and money managers who speak plainly

9. User-friendly analytics that support fiduciary due diligence

10. Vacation between the "pension problem" and the "health care crisis"

I better stop here so I can get this note to the North Pole in time for a jolly holiday arrival. By the way, what is your pension plan like? Say hi to Rudolph.

Thanks Santa!

HWPF
Hard Working Pension Fiduciary


Editor's Note:

Click here if you'd like to add to the list or see what your peers think. Neither your name nor your email address will be made public.

Labels: ,

posted by Susan Mangiero at 12/18/2006 12:02:00 AM | 0 comments | links to this post  

Saturday, November 25, 2006


Pensions for Pets?



With an estimated $40 billion at stake, pets are a big business. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, 63 percent of U.S. households own a pet with more than 90 million cats, 73 million dogs and 139 million freshwater fish claiming a place in more than 69 million homes.

While many of us work hard to prepare for life after work, serious pet owners are just as concerned that Fido and Puss have enough biscuits and balls in their golden years.

The Humane Society of the United States offers a free kit, Providing for Your Pet's Future Without You, including a "six-page fact sheet, wallet alert cards, emergency decals for windows and doors, and caregiver information forms." Click here for more information.

USA Today reports that many states have relaxed rules to set up trusts for pets, with an average bequest of $25,000. (See "Animal owners set up trust funds for their pets" by Richard Willing, August 15, 2002.)

So to those friends and family members who dote on their cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, birds and fish, retirement planning takes on a whole new meaning.

Arf!

Labels:

posted by Susan Mangiero at 11/25/2006 09:40:00 PM | 0 comments | links to this post