Practice management

Emerging technology platforms, an aging workforce and a turbulent regulatory environment in the employee benefits field can either be perceived as problems or opportunities. Considering I sold everything that I had to start my own practice, I opt for the latter. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “An aging population and changes in federal regulation may increase demand for agents who sell health and long-term care insurance.” It has been widely talked about that nearly…

Commentary: Many brokerages fear technology is going to replace them, so they hold on tighter and refuse to budge, says columnist Wendy Keneipp.

The public has until July 21 to submit comments on the proposal that would expand the fiduciary standard to thousands of brokers and advisers who provide retirement investment advice.

Commentary: The filing deadline is approaching, and employers risk costly penalties for noncompliance. Here’s what employers need to know, including updates to these forms, which must be filed by July 31.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants was a long time user of Liazon’s private exchange software, but this week launched its own exchange, developed in partnership with Hodges-Mace. Chris Duncan, EPIC’s chief growth officer, discusses the move and why exchanges may not be for everyone.

Ending the Cadillac tax, simplifying the reporting process and eliminating the automatic enrollment requirement are a few of the legislative recommendations the American Benefits Council is urging Congress to act on.

Benefit advisers in several states have received new fee arrangements from Aetna that eliminate commissions on small-group business, causing an uproar among brokers, many of whom question the legality of such a practice.

HR departments lack a clear understanding of fees and commissions attached to private exchanges, with many early exchange adopters uncovering fees once they start using the model.

The Workplace Benefits Association has inducted Rob J. Thurston, president of HR Consulting Group (HRCG), into the Worksite Marketing Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals for their contributions to the voluntary employee benefits industry.

Which brokerages have the most clients in the biggest industries in the U.S.? From construction to finance, education to manufacturing — and more, EBA, in partnership with business intelligence data analytics firm miEdge, reveals the top 10 brokerages in 10 U.S. industries. The listing is based on Form 5500 Schedule A reporting data on premiums as of March 31, 2015.