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New Data Revels How Employers Customize Their 401(k) Plans to Encourage Saving

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (12 MARCH 2018) BrightScope and ICI update their study annually, following the Department of Labor’s publication of the Form 5500 data filed by each of the approximately 550,000 401(k) plans. The study also incorporates data from the BrightScope Defined Contribution Plan Database, which includes information from nearly 20,000 large 401(k) plans that filed detailed audited reports with the Department of Labor. “This study helps analyze data and trends in the evolving 401(k) marketplace, providing excellent insights into the considerations and features driving plan development,” said Brooks Herman, Vice President of Data & Research at BrightScope, a unit of Strategic Insight. “Examining the cost of investing in a 401(k) is an important aspect of our work and our detailed analysis shows that fees and expenses have decreased for plan participants over time. There are many factors driving declining expense ratios, including increased competition and the growing size of the 401(k) marketplace, as well as public disclosure of plan costs.”

BrightScope 2016 Top 30 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (26 February, 2018) – BrightScope, a Strategic Insight company, is pleased to announce the Top 30 401k Plans of 2016 report. BrightScope’s Top 30 list is comprised of large 401k plans with high overall quality, as measured by the BrightScope Rating. “This is our ninth year tracking America’s best 401k plans,” said Brooks Herman, Vice President, Data & Research, at BrightScope. “Over the years, the average 401k rating keeps improving, showing that America’s employers and employees are committed to improving their 401k outcomes.”

New research reveals shifting target-date landscape with plan sponsors choosing non-proprietary solutions

A new in-depth study conducted jointly by AllianceBernstein L.P (“AB”) and BrightScope reveals a dramatically shifting target-date landscape where recordkeepers who offer their own target-date funds – known as “proprietary” funds - are losing share of assets on their own platforms as plan sponsors are increasingly choosing funds from other providers given the increased array of solutions that offer benefits such as enhanced diversification, lower fees, multiple managers, etc. The research also provides insight on a competitive target-date market where some providers have turned to collective investment trusts (CITs) or passive offerings to respond to fee pressures and to try to retain share. http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-research-reveals-shifting-target-date-landscape-with-plan-sponsors-choosing-non-proprietary-solutions-300496547.html

RiXtrema Partners With BrightScope to Create Seamless Workflow for Fiduciary Analytics

We are pleased to announce our newest partnership with RiXtrema, the leading provider of risk management tools and analysis to the financial advisory and broker/dealer community. BrightScope's Plan Data Network allows RiXtrema's FiduciaryOptimizer seamless access and sharing of 404(a)(5) disclosure documents "BrightScope's Plan Data Network is a unique platform," said RiXtrema President Daniel Satchkov, CFA. "It uses technology to provide firms performing rollover best interest determinations with the necessary retirement plan disclosures required by the DOL. Retirees frequently have a hard time obtaining the 404(a)(5) disclosure for the advisor. The Plan Data Network solves the advisor's problem, enabling the analysis. RiXtrema chose to integrate the Plan Data Network into our FiduciaryOptimizer suite of products to allow our users to seamlessly obtain the plan details from any 404(a)(5) document." http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rixtrema-partners-with-brightscope-to-create-seamless-workflow-for-fiduciary-analytics-300427026.html

The BrightScope/ICI Defined Contribution Plan Profile: A Close Look at 401(k) Plans, 2014

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Dec. 20, 2016) - BrightScope (BrightScope.com) announces the release of the newest collaborative research effort between BrightScope and the Investment Company Institute (ICI) that analyzes plan-level data gathered from audited Form 5500 filings of private-sector defined contribution plans. This new report in the BrightScope/ICI Defined Contribution Plan Profile series focuses on private-sector 401(k) plans in 2014 and first analyzes 401(k) plans in the Department of Labor 2014 Form 5500 Research File. Focus then shifts to nearly 30,000 audited 401(k) plans in the BrightScope Defined Contribution Plan Database, which have between four and 100 investment options, at least $1 million in plan assets, and typically 100 participants or more. We invite you to read the full report HERE.

BrightScope hires Rick Niedt, broker-dealer and retail data processing expert

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Feb. 10, 2016) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a provider of software, analytics, and data to the world’s leading financial institutions, today announced that Rick Niedt has joined the company as EVP of Enterprise Product, reporting to President & COO Ryan Alfred. Mr. Niedt will be responsible for the continued build out of BrightScope Beacon, the leading cross-channel distribution software platform for the asset management industry.

“Rick’s deep knowledge of asset management trade resolution and data analytics will be incredibly helpful as BrightScope continues its push to become the business intelligence and analytical leader of choice for distribution leaders and CIOs looking for a better way to collect, visualize and analyze their data” said Ryan Alfred, President & COO of BrightScope. Download PDF

BrightScope/ICI Study Analyzes Combinations of Key Features of 401(k) Plans and Trends in Plan Design

WASHINGTON, DC, DECEMBER 22, 2015—A new in-depth study of 401(k) plans analyzes the prevalence of automatic enrollment, employer contributions, and participant loans in the plans, as well as trends in plan investment options and fees, providing new insights into the 401(k) system. The report, released today, is a collaborative effort by BrightScope and the Investment Company Institute (ICI).

The study, “The BrightScope/ICI Defined Contribution Plan Profile: A Close Look at 401(k) Plans, 2013” updates the groups’ inaugural study last year, analyzing comprehensive data across a wide range of 401(k) plans. The research focuses on private-sector 401(k) plans, analyzing data from the Department of Labor on thousands of plans covering a range of plan sizes. The organizations also studied detailed investment data from the BrightScope Defined Contribution Plan Database on more 34,000 large 401(k) plans, each holding at least $1 million in plan assets and typically having 100 participants or more. Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Its Seventh Annual Top 30 401k Plans List

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 15, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, is proud to announce the seventh BrightScope year-end ranking of the Top 30 401k Plans List to recognize companies with the best 401k plans containing more than $1 billion in assets.

“This is our seventh year compiling the Year-End Top 30 Ratings list, and yet again we see companies offer increasingly outstanding plans,” said Mike Alfred, CEO & co-founder of BrightScope. “It’s encouraging to see the average plan rating continue to improve, demonstrating employers recognize the importance a high quality 401k plan plays in helping employees retire with dignity.” Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Chicago Area Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 18, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of Chicago area companies with the highest rated 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

“The strong showing of companies in this year's Chicago list proves the area’s employers make it a priority to offer quality retirement benefits,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “A top ranking 401k plan is an indicator that the company values its employees and works hard to set them up for a successful financial future.” Download PDF

BrightScope Welcomes Former BlackRock Managing Director Martin Beaulieu as Advisor

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 29, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today welcomed Martin Beaulieu, a former BlackRock Managing Director, to its Advisory Board. Martin will serve in an ongoing capacity as an Advisor to the company and its executives. His commitment is a testament to the work BrightScope has done to bring unprecedented transparency to the financial industry and will help the company further that mission. Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 San Francisco Area Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 13, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of San Francisco companies with the highest rated 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

“Top rated companies in San Francisco are exceeding expectations when it comes to improving employee retirement plan offerings,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “The most progressive companies realize that employees are increasingly interested in being better prepared for their financial future – and they are responding to the demand by providing higher quality 401k plans.” Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 10 Target Date Series

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 29, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 10 Target Date Series (TDS), ranked by total 401K assets. Target date series’ are a group of target date funds – there is an average of 12 funds in each series on this list – designed to simplify asset management for investors and plan sponsors by automatically shifting allocation to help participants meet retirement goals. Download PDF

BrightScope Updates List of the Top 100 Most Social Financial Advisors

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 22, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today released its updated list of the Top 100 Most Social Financial Advisors in the United States. Introduced in 2014 to recognize the top advisors with significant online influence, BrightScope hopes to encourage all financial professionals to bolster their digital brand. Investors are increasingly using search engines and ratings services to inform key life decisions like selecting financial advisors, so advisors with the highest visibility online stand to win an increasing share of new business. Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 20 Commodities Funds Held in America’s 401k Plans

BrightScope has announced the Top 20 Commodities Fund Distribution List for 401k and defined contribution industry. Based on the $3.6 trillion in 401k assets BrightScope analyses, the amount of 401k assets held as commodities funds make up just over one percent – $4.1 billion – of the assets held in those plans. Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights Top Industries with the Best 401k Plans

BrightScope the list of industries ranked by average 401k plan rating for those containing more than $100 million in assets. “Consistently increasing ratings and plan size shows that companies within the top industries on the list work hard year-after-year to improve the quality of 401k plans," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Although there is still work to be done, BrightScope has seen an increase in average plan rating across industries which shows employers of all types are making a conscious effort to help employees prepare for retirement.” Download PDF

Top 3 Mutual Funds Held in Retirement Plans

Today BrightScope announces the Top 3 Mutual Funds held in each of the investment categories most commonly offered in retirement plans: Allocation, Alterative Assets, Bonds, Cash/Stable Value, International Stock, Large Cap, Mid Cap and Small Cap. BrightScope’s technology reveals detailed information on thousands of funds and supplements it with proprietary data to provide a comprehensive picture of the retirement marketplace. Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Updated List of the Top 20 TIPS Funds Held in America’s 401k Plans

BrightScope today announced the Top 20 Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) Fund Distribution for the 401k and defined contribution industry. This list is part of a series of rankings BrightScope regularly publishes to provide investment managers, mutual fund companies, investors, and others with more insight into the top funds and managers in the retirement marketplace. Download PDF

403(b) Plans Offer Diverse Array of Investment Options

WASHINGTON, DC, JUNE 30, 2015—Employees of educational institutions and other nonprofit employers who participate in 403(b) plans enjoy many investment options in their plans, according to a research study by BrightScope and the Investment Company Institute released today. Download PDF

BrightScope Launches Fund Pages to Provide Unprecedented, Free Access to Mutual Fund Data and Analysis

“We built Fund Pages to help investors, advisors, and fund companies make better decisions. Our technology reveals detailed information on thousands of funds, and supplements it with proprietary BrightScope data to provide a comprehensive picture of the market,” said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. “Fund Pages is the most recent in a series of products BrightScope has launched to further our mission of providing greater transparency into financial markets.” Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Washington, D.C. Area Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 14, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of Washington, D.C. area companies with the highest rated 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. “Top rated companies in the greater D.C. area are exceeding expectations when it comes to improving employee offerings,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “Like many businesses around the country, the most progressive employers realize that people are increasingly interested in planning for their financial future – and they’re answering that desire with better and better plans.” Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Detroit Area Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 7, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of Detroit area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. “It’s great to see Detroit companies stepping up to improve their offerings, with overall plan ratings and company generosity increasing from last year,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “Businesses are working hard to offer better retirement options for their employees, and people are responding by putting away more money for their futures, growing the average account balance nearly 14 percent in the last year.” Download PDF

BrightScope Honors the Most Generous U.S. Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 24, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the second annual list of the 30 Most Generous Companies ranked by their 401k plans, showcasing companies that are placing an emphasis on helping employees prepare for their financial futures. Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 25 Atlanta Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 17, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the fourth list of Atlanta area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets. “Companies in Atlanta reflect a national trend of businesses placing high importance on retirement options,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “Across the country we see savvy businesses working hard to improve their retirement offerings to both attract top talent and to help better prepare employees for their financial future.” Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Latest Ranking of the Top 100 Most Social Financial Advisors

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 11, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today released its updated list of the Top 100 Most Social Financial Advisors in the United States. Introduced in 2014 to recognize the top advisors with significant online influence, BrightScope hopes to encourage all financial professionals to bolster their digital brand. Consumers are increasingly using search engines and ratings services to inform key life decisions like selecting a financial advisor. Advisors with the highest visibility online stand to win an increasing share of new business.

“It’s encouraging to see so many advisors expanding their online presence,” said Kevin Fahey, Director of Product, Consumer at BrightScope. “Investors now expect their advisors to be active, easily vetted and available online. This is one of the driving forces behind AdviceMatch, our new platform that makes it easy for investors to find and evaluate advisors online.” Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 Los Angeles Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 24, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the third list of Los Angeles area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

“In examining the Los Angeles top plans, it was great to see the average rating improve almost three points since we last issued this list,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “It’s clear these companies are working hard to improve their retirement offerings to help their employees better prepare for their financial future.” Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 New York Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 10, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the fourth list of New York area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. "One of our longest-standing rankings, it’s great to see New York-based companies continue to improve ratings since this launching this list in 2010,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “New York is leading the way in company generosity, and local companies are clearly working hard to improve the quality of retirement offerings to better help employees prepare for their financial futures." Download PDF

BrightScope Extends Sales Reporting Platform to RIA and Retail Channels

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 28, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading independent data, analytics, and software company driving the growth of data-driven decision-making in financial services, today announced the launch of its new RIA Sales Reporting offering. By merging custodial transaction details and CRM and marketing activity data with BrightScope Beacon’s real-time Advisor Data Stewardship offering, it delivers unprecedented transparency into RIA sales and activity. Leveraging the BrightScope Beacon platform, RIA Sales Reporting maximizes the value of asset managers’ internal and external data assets, providing a comprehensive, integrated sales reporting solution.

“We are helping asset managers break through the density of custodial sales data to deliver actionable intelligence to grow assets,” says Chris Riggio, Chief Revenue Officer of BrightScope. “By integrating and enriching transfer agent and sub-accounting data, along with the custodial files, we are able to deliver a single, customizable dashboard across business lines for executives as well as market research and sales teams.” Download PDF

BrightScope Launches AdviceMatch to Simplify the Search for Financial Advice and Investment Guidance

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 21, 2015) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and research, today launches AdviceMatch™, a free online service that gives personalized, objective recommendations for investors looking to engage a financial advisor or automated investment service. BrightScope developed AdviceMatch to meet the rapidly emerging shift toward online client acquisition and service delivery in the money management marketplace.

"AdviceMatch is the next evolution of BrightScope's Advisor Pages offering, which was created to help investors research and make a well-informed decision when it comes to choosing who manages their money," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "This platform makes it even easier to choose the most appropriate financial advisor by delivering personalized recommendations that also take the how into account, revealing if an online advisory service should be considered." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Its Sixth Annual Top 30 401k Plans List

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 17, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, is proud to announce the sixth BrightScope year-end ranking of the Top 30 401k Plans List to recognize companies with the best 401k plans containing more than $1 billion in assets.

“We’ve seen average account balances, deferrals and participation rates steadily increase year-over year and that continues with this sixth annual ranking of top 401k plans,” said Mike Alfred, CEO & co-founder of BrightScope. “It’s encouraging to see the average plan rating also continue to improve, demonstrating employers recognize the importance a high quality 401k plan plays in helping employees retire with dignity.” Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Seattle Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 3, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the third ranking of Seattle area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"Seattle workers have one of the highest average 401k account balances out of any region BrightScope analyzed this year," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "There has been a steady an uptick in retirement contributions, account balances across the country and an increased effort by companies to improve the quality of retirement plan offerings." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 12 Small-Cap Funds Held in the Defined Contribution Marketplace

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 18, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of the Top 12 Small-Cap Funds in the defined contribution industry based on total distribution.

"Small-cap funds have been strong performers these past five years, and this year the BrightScope data reveals a fairly substantial increase in the assets represented in these Top 12 funds," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Investing in small-caps can be a great way to diversify a portfolio, which is key for successful long-term financial growth." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 25 Indianapolis Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 11, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the third ranking of Indianapolis area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"The high participation rates seen across Indianapolis' top plans showcases a national trend of workers increasingly prioritizing retirement savings," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "BrightScope has seen that enthusiasm being reciprocated by companies which are more frequently improving the quality of their 401k plan in response to employees' demand for better retirement options." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists Top 20 International Stock Funds Held in Defined Contribution Marketplace

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 28, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of the Top 20 International Stock Funds in the defined contribution industry based on total distribution. The largest funds consistently make up the top three every year BrightScope has issued this list: American Funds EuroPacific Growth ranks first, Fidelity Diversified International second and Dodge & Cox International Stock third.

"We have seen excellent growth in international funds even in these volatile markets" said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "A diversified portfolio is a key indicator of long-term financial success, and international funds can be a good way to balance swings in the US market." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 San Francisco Bay Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 14, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of San Francisco Bay Area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It's encouraging to see a wide variety of industries represented on this list in a city primarily known for technology and finance business," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "It shows that, no matter the trade, every company can provide quality 401k benefits to help employees better prepare for a successful retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 25 Pittsburgh Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 7, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the ranking of Pittsburgh area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It's great to see Pittsburgh’s companies progress over the years to become one of BrightScope's most positive Top 401k Plans list," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "This year, BrightScope saw ratings improve further as Pittsburg area companies continue to embrace the importance of quality retirement offerings to help employees better prepare for their financial futures.” Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 20 Commodities Funds Held in America’s 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 23, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 Commodities Fund Distribution List for 401k and defined contribution industry. Based on the $3.3 trillion in 401k assets BrightScope analyses, the amount of 401k assets held as commodities funds increased by 45 percent from 2010-2012. Commodities funds make up just over one percent – $3.8 billion – of the assets held in those plans.

"BrightScope has seen impressive growth over the past year in the most popular commodities funds held as 401k assets," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "We expect that trend to continue as both plan sponsors and participants become more comfortable with alternative assets." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 15 Austin Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 9, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the first ranking of Austin area companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"In BrightScope's inaugural ranking of Austin’s best 401k plans, we're thrilled to see many local companies follow the trend of strong retirement offerings that we’ve seen across Texas' largest cities this year," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "The quality of 401k plans offered by Austin's top ranked companies shows that the employers represented are doing a good job to support the successful financial futures of their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 25 Raleigh-Durham Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 3, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Raleigh-Durham area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"It's great to see so many companies in the Raleigh-Durham area return to this list, and to have repeat top performers, like Lenovo and the Private Diagnostic Clinic, further improve the quality of their 401k plans," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "BrightScope has seen more and more companies focus on ways to provide better retirement plans to employees in order to help them prepare for financial success well beyond their working years." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights Top Industries with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 26, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the list of industries ranked by average 401k plan rating for those containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It's excellent to see nearly every industry on this list improve their average rating over the past year," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Across the board, it's obvious companies are working to improve the quality of their 401k plans and therefore help employees' secure their financial futures." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 Houston Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 19, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the the Top 25 companies in the Houston area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"Houston's top companies continually offer high quality plans to employees in an effort to help them secure a prosperous financial future," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Over the years, it’s been great to see new companies join and recurring contenders improve their rating while Houston area companies as a whole rank among the most generous we've seen nationwide this year." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 San Jose Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 5, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the first-ever list of the Top 25 companies in the San Jose area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"In a region where companies are famed for workplace perks, it’s great to see that those same companies work to ensure great benefits continue to help employees in retirement," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "It's also gratifying to see that workers are just as dedicated to their financial futures, with the average annual deferral by participants in the San Jose area being the highest seen on any of BrightScope's rankings so far this year." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 25 Law Firms with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 29, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 law firms with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. "The top 401k plans offered in the law industry have become more robust and financially beneficial to employees as shown by a steady increase in their average BrightScope rating over the past few years,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “Participants in these top plans are fortunate in many ways, one being the law firm they’re employed by makes an effort to provide a quality 401k plan." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Portland Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 15, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Portland, Oregon area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It is encouraging to see people prioritize their financial future, as demonstrated by an average participation rate of 92.5 percent in Portland’s top 401k plans,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. “We are thrilled to see this positive trend nationwide. It is clear that companies can have a positive impact on employee retirement contributions by improving the quality of the plans they offer." Download PDF

BrightScope Selected to Provide Sales Reporting Data to Servicers on T. Rowe Price's Retirement Platform

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 8, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, announced that it has been chosen by T. Rowe Price Retirement Plan Services, Inc. to deliver sales information to asset managers, broker-dealers, custodians, recordkeepers, and transfer agents who provide services to their clients on T. Rowe Price’s retirement services platform.

With a focus on transparency, the BrightScope Partners Gateway system simplifies how retirement-plan sales distribution data is shared and utilized among service providers. Through a flexible and intuitive interface, the system will enhance the value of T. Rowe Price’s services by offering providers a single, secure, cloud-based reporting solution that can be customized to meet their unique business objectives. Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals Latest Trends in Target Date Funds

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 24, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced recent trends in target date funds (TDFs) as a result of its examination of the lowest cost institutional share class for all target date funds through December 2013. This includes 52 target date series, composed of 479 distinct target date funds from 39 different asset managers.

"Last year target date asset growth was strong, fueled by a strong equity market and ongoing acknowledgement by plan sponsors and advisors that defined contribution participants prefer to have retirement accounts professionally managed," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Target date funds continue to be the vehicle of choice to meet this need." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 Phoenix Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 10, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Phoenix area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It is exciting to see newcomers to the Phoenix Top 25 401k list, like Valley Anesthesiology Consultants. Retirement plans in Phoenix mirror a nationwide trend, with substantial 401k plan asset growth over the past few years," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "It is great to see new plans on this list that are dedicated to helping their employees attain more secure financial futures, while setting a high bar for other Phoenix companies of all sizes." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Charlotte Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 27, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Charlotte area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"There are several newcomers to this year's list, each contributing to an increase in the average BrightScope Rating of Charlotte's Top 25 plans from 76.8 in our previous release to over 80 today," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "It's apparent Charlotte-area companies are following the national trend of improving their options for employees to help them become more financially secure." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 25 Los Angeles Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 20, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Los Angeles area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its recently enhanced Advisor Pages, a comprehensive directory of over 680,000 financial advisors that serves as a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Over the past few years, there has been a significant uptick in amount of assets managed by RIA firms in the Los Angeles area. The top ranked company alone has gained more than $1 billion in assets," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research at BrightScope. "Both gaining and preserving investor confidence is integral to a firm's growth. That's why BrightScope has continued to expand the Advisor Pages platform, allowing for investors to interact with advisors for expert insight and to provide a resource for unbiased information that helps people find the best investor for their individual needs." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Social Influence Rank for Financial Advisors

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 13, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its Social Influence Rank for financial advisors and its inaugural list of the Top 100 Most Social Financial Advisors in the United States. By recognizing the top advisors with significant online influence, BrightScope hopes to encourage all financial professionals to bolster their digital presence. Consumers are increasingly using search engines and ratings services to inform key life decisions like selecting a financial advisor. Advisors with the highest visibility online stand to win an increasing share of all new business.

"It has been reported that nearly half of investors would like to interact with advisors online but they cannot find them. Social media has become a required communication tool and BrightScope wants to recognize advisors taking advantage of the impact a robust digital profile can have on an advisor’s practice," said Mike Alfred, Co-Founder and CEO of BrightScope. "By shining a light on social media best practices within the financial services industry, BrightScope hopes more professionals will actively use all types of communications tools to benefit themselves and investors, especially in light of the SEC’s recent guidance on social media." Download PDF

BrightScope President and Co-Founder Ryan Alfred Joins Employee Benefit Research Institute Board of Trustees

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 6, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, announced its co-founder and President, Ryan Alfred, has joined the board of trustees for the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) in Washington, D.C. As part of the board, Alfred will help further ERBI’s founding purposes, including addressing the ongoing need for objective, unbiased information regarding the employee benefit system, so that decisions affecting the system may be made based on verifiable facts. Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 25 Atlanta Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 23, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Atlanta area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its recently enhanced Advisor Pages, a comprehensive directory of over 680,000 financial advisors that serves as a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Eight firms in the Atlanta area recently surpassed a billion dollars in assets under management, evidence of an influx in investment growth in the past two years," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research at BrightScope. "The improving economy and strong stock market returns over the past several years provides RIAs with a tremendous business opportunity. Connecting investors with the best financial professionals for their situation is why we recently expanded BrightScope's Advisor Pages beyond simple, unbiased information to an interactive platform for investment research and expert insight." Download PDF

BrightScope announces Chris Riggio as its First Chief Revenue Officer

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Apr. 16, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of software, analytics, and data to the world’s leading financial institutions, today announced that Chris Riggio has joined the company as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), reporting to the CEO and responsible for accelerating the company's growth. Riggio brings 16 years of experience in the financial services industry and a reputation for driving revenue generation by building highly successful sales and client support teams.

"BrightScope has experienced tremendous growth in recent years and our management team has become increasingly aware that the company's addressable market is far larger than we had originally projected. We have reached an important inflection point where the addition of an experienced leader can have an outsized impact on our growth trajectory," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Chris is an exceptional executive with a strong background in building highly successful sales and support organizations that drive rapid revenue growth and deliver results for clients. His experience, relationships and deep industry knowledge will help accelerate BrightScope's growing and successful track record. We are thrilled to welcome him to our team." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 25 Detroit Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 8, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Detroit area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"The ratings of the top plans in Detroit show there are many employers in the area offering quality 401k plans despite the economic challenges faced by many in the region," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "It's clear these Detroit companies care about the financial futures of their work force." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Updated List of the Top 20 TIPS Funds Held in America’s 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 1, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) Fund Distribution for the 401k and defined contribution industry. TIPS funds represent roughly $31 billion of investable assets in the $3.2 trillion BrightScope Beacon DC database, but that number has been growing at 35% a year rate as plan sponsors, consultants and advisors see more value in the diversification and inflation-resistant potential of TIPS funds. This list is part of a series of rankings BrightScope will regularly publish to provide investment managers, mutual fund companies, investors, and others with more insight into the top funds and managers in the retirement marketplace.

"Inflation is a major concern for 401k participants and plan sponsors," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "The marketplace views TIPS as a suitable hedge against inflation. As baby boomers move to retirement, we expect assets in TIPS to continue to grow." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 25 Atlanta Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 31, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Atlanta area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

... "Many companies reappearing on the list of Atlanta's Top 401k Plans have increased plan ratings over the past year, showing a trend of higher plan quality in the area." said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Offering top-notch plans is a sign that these companies truly appreciate their employees and indicates that they continually strive to improve the financial future for workers." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 25 Miami Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 20, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Miami area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its recently enhanced Advisor Pages, a comprehensive directory of nearly 600,000 financial advisors that serves as a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"This year's list of Miami’s Top RIA Firms shows a steep increase in assets under management, signaling area investors are more confident in the market," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research at BrightScope. "Those looking to find a qualified investment professional turn to BrightScope's Advisor Pages because we've created a simple, unbiased way for them to find the one that best suits their unique financial situation. In turn, Advisor Pages is a highly-visible platform RIAs can use to highlight their expertise and be discovered by potential investors." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 Dallas-Fort Worth Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 11, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Dallas-Fort Worth area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"In the past four years, there has been a strong increase in the quality of Top 401k Plans in the Dallas-Fort Worth area," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "Since 2010, the number of local companies offering employees a 401k plan that has a BrightScope ranking above 80 has more than doubled, going from less than 10 to more than 25 today." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 25 Baltimore Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 25, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Baltimore area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its recently enhanced Advisor Pages, a comprehensive directory of nearly 600,000 financial advisors that serves as a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Being able to easily conduct due diligence when considering an advisor is invaluable for investors, but obtaining reliable information on advisors has historically been a lengthy process," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research at BrightScope. "We recently expanded Advisor Pages, allowing anyone to create a basic profile, providing the opportunity for advisors to increase their exposure through enhancements like SEO and offering even more ways to connect with potential clients." Download PDF

BrightScope Appoints Joan Wallace to Lead New Data Solutions Group

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Feb. 5, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of software, analytics, and data to many of the world’s largest financial institutions, is proud to announce that Joan Wallace, former senior vice president of the GSO Customized Credit Strategies Division at the Blackstone Group, has joined the BrightScope team as vice president of Data Solutions. In her new role Joan will lead the Data Solutions Group, a newly formed department that will serve as the bridge between the sales and client success organizations to ensure implementations meet or exceed the expectations of BrightScope's partners.

"In the last twelve months we have added five top 10 global asset managers to our Beacon client list. BrightScope Beacon has become the central platform where the world's leading financial institutions integrate and enrich disparate distribution data so that it can be effectively utilized in managing and growing the business. The creation of the Data Solutions Group is an important milestone in our quest to provide world-class service and technical support to our clients," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Joan is a true data guru and highly talented executive. We are excited to welcome her to our team and honored to have her leading the Data Solutions Group." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the 30 Most Generous U.S. Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 15, 2014) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its inaugural list of the 30 Most Generous Companies ranked by their 401k plans – uncovering the U.S. companies that value setting their employees up for a strong financial future. "Generosity is an important means for companies to recruit and retain top employees," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Its importance is exemplified by the fact that half of the companies on this list have been on one or more other BrightScope rankings this year, and several more have been featured in years past." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Its Fifth Annual Year-End Top 30 401k Plans List

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 17, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce the fifth annual BrightScope Year?End Top 30 Ratings List covering 401k plans with more than $1 billion in assets. BrightScope obtains an increasing amount of its data directly from plan sponsors and recordkeepers, and augments these primary sources with data from publicly available sources such as the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission. By analyzing and interpreting this data, BrightScope provides unprecedented transparency into the 401k industry.

"Each year since our founding, we have released a Year-End Top 30 Ratings list to highlight the very best 401k plans in the country. This year is no different," says Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "The beauty of the BrightScope Rating is that it is entirely quantitative. It is not a survey or political contest. The elite 401k plans on this list only appear there because they are highly likely to deliver their respective plan participants to a secure and dignified retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Opens its Doors to All Financial Advisors, Providing Access to Millions of Investors with Enhanced Advisor Pages

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 12, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced a major update to its Advisor Pages platform. Financial advisors can now claim and maintain their profile at no charge, and additionally gain access to new exposure tools with two premium account options. BrightScope is also releasing a series of badges that allow advisors to highlight experience and conduct, and help investors more easily identify wealth management advisors with clean regulatory histories and desired industry experience.

"BrightScope was early in figuring out that all financial advisors need to have a useful online presence and a place to display their experience and credentials," said Joshua M. Brown, author of The Reformed Broker blog and CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management. "Now that Advisor Pages is opening up to everyone, it's only a matter of time before these profiles become the industry standard and the go-to resource for investors." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 Seattle Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 10, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Seattle area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"Cities like Seattle are always interesting to observe over time," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "While the city is home to some heavy-hitting companies, there are always new and exciting companies joining the ranks of businesses committed to providing solid 401k plans for their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 12 Small-Cap Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 19, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 12 Small-Cap Funds for the 401k and defined contribution industry. This list is part of a series of rankings BrightScope will regularly publish to provide investment managers, mutual fund companies, investors, and others with more insight into the top funds and managers in the retirement marketplace. The proliferation of this critical information will dramatically increase the efficiency of the field and lead to lower cost plans and better outcomes for the 60 million Americans who depend on their 401k plan for retirement.

"Small-cap funds are a great way to diversify an investor's portfolio," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Traditionally, small-caps are considered more risky but have a higher expected return. The funds in this list have attracted retirement assets because they demonstrate favorable risk and return profiles." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues List of Top 20 International Stock Funds in Defined Contribution Marketplace

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 29, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 International Stock Funds in the defined contribution industry. This list is part of a series of rankings BrightScope will regularly publish to provide investment managers, mutual fund companies, investors, and others with more insight into the top funds and managers in the retirement marketplace. The proliferation of this critical information will dramatically increase the efficiency of the field and lead to lower cost plans and better outcomes for the 60 million Americans who depend on their 401k plan for retirement.

"Maintaining diversification is essential to the health of any portfolio," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Traditionally, international equities offer returns that are less correlated with domestic equities, which improves the risk/return profile of a portfolio." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 25 Boston Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 22, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Boston area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It's great to see that most of the companies that were on the Boston list in 2012 remained on this year's list, and many have even improved their rating," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "It's clear that those companies have continued to make the plan improvements geared towards helping employees reach their retirement goals." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues List of Top 20 Commodities Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 15, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 Commodities Fund Distribution List for 401k and defined contribution industry. This list is part of a series of rankings BrightScope will regularly publish to provide investment managers, mutual fund companies, investors, and others with more insight into the top funds and managers in the retirement marketplace. The proliferation of this critical information will dramatically increase the efficiency of the field and lead to lower cost plans and better outcomes for the 60 million Americans who depend on their 401k plan for retirement.

"Commodities continue to emerge and evolve in the 401k marketplace," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data & Research at BrightScope. "Historically, their returns are less correlated with traditional asset classes like equities and bonds, and plan participants are beginning to seek them out in their portfolios." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks the Top 25 Pittsburgh Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 8, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Pittsburgh area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.>br />
"Pittsburgh is home to nationally recognized manufacturers and consultants, many of which are included in the region's top 10 list," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "These companies stand out not only because they supply the country with essential products and services, but also because they demonstrate that they value employees by providing the building blocks for a successful retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Executives to Speak at Three Top Financial and Information Industry Conferences This October

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 1, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced that its co-founders will be speaking at three top financial and information industry conferences this month. Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 20 Exchange-Traded Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 24, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) Distribution List for the 401k and defined contribution industry. This list is part of a series of rankings BrightScope will regularly publish to provide investment managers, mutual fund companies, investors, and others with more insight into the top funds and managers in the retirement marketplace. The proliferation of this critical information will dramatically increase the efficiency of the field and lead to lower cost plans and better outcomes for the 60 million Americans who depend on their 401k plan for retirement.

"ETFs, in terms of their distribution in 401k plans, have increased in prevalence over the past couple of years as plan sponsors begin to better understand the benefits of including them on plan menus," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research at BrightScope. "The presumed risks of ETFs have been moderated and they're now perceived as more transparent than many other instruments focused on long-term returns." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 San Francisco Area-Based Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 17, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the San Francisco Bay Area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"Spanning across industries from tech and financial to pharmaceuticals and entertainment, the plans on this year's list show the breadth of quality in the SF Bay Area," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "Plan ratings have increased across the board, as plan sponsors continue to improve offerings and maximize the chance of their teams' future financial security." Download PDF

BrightScope and The Spaulding Group, Inc. Release UAPS White Paper For Public Comment

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 11, 2013) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, and The Spaulding Group (www.spauldinggrp.com), a global leader in investment performance measurement products and services, today jointly announced the release of the final draft of the white paper, "Universal Advisory Performance Standards," and the opening of a public comment period for industry input. The free white paper, which highlights the need for an industry consensus performance standard for financial advisors, can be downloaded at www.uapstandards.org.

"Our belief still remains strong that every financial advisor will want to and should need to disclose the performance of their investment selections on behalf of clients," said Mike Alfred, the CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We are expecting to continue to see a positive response to this initiative now that we’re soliciting feedback from the advisor community. UAPS is a standard that should be achievable by all investors." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks Top Industries with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 6, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the list of industries ranked by average 401k plan rating for those containing more than $100 million in assets. This is the culmination of a series where BrightScope highlighted the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"The range of industries topping this list shows that employers of all types are taking necessary steps to set up employees for a secure retirement by providing a robust 401k plan," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research for BrightScope. "We hope companies across the country are now inspired to evaluate the options available to workers and make positive changes that have the potential to make a huge impact to employees' financial future over time." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Chicago Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 27, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the Chicago area with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"Chicago's highest-scoring plans continue to be among the country's highest ranked, showing strong plans over a range of industries," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "The employees of these 'Windy City' companies can feel confident in their financial futures, knowing their employers continue to offer what's needed to help prepare for a comfortable retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Automotive Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 6, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the automotive industry with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This is the seventh list in a new series where BrightScope highlights the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"As one of the U.S's larger industries, automotive companies carry much responsibility when it comes to ensuring their workers' financial futures," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research for BrightScope. "When we look at companies with high ratings of this list, it's encouraging – and fulfilling – to see such big companies making an effort to provide quality plans for the employees that make up such a large part of the workforce." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Houston Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 16, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), today announced its third annual list of the top Houston area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"Houston's top 401k plans, while impressive in the past, keep getting better year over year - now we see higher ratings from the top to bottom of this prestigious list," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "A secure financial future for employees becomes ever more feasible when employers make the types of improvements to plans that we are observing from Houston-based companies." Download PDF

BrightScope Crowns the Top 15 Sports Organizations with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 25, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 organizations in the sports industry with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $25 million in assets. This is the sixth list in a new series where BrightScope highlights the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"It's easy to see our favorite athletes and sports teams on television and not relate to them as employees of their respective organizations with retirement plans, just like you and me," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research for BrightScope. "However, saving for the future is still very important even for members of public and popular organizations like these. We recognize these high quality plans to inspire other companies to put more effort into improving the quality of their plans in order to provide a winning financial future to employees." Download PDF

BrightScope and Target Date Analytics Announce Latest Comprehensive Target Date Fund Study

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 18, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, together with Target Date Analytics, (www.ontargetindex.com), the leading independent provider of analysis, theory, and benchmarking of target date funds, today announced the release of Popping the Hood VI. The newest study in the popular Popping the Hood series provides a detailed analysis of target date funds (TDFs) and fund families, making it the most comprehensive source of information available in the TDF marketplace.

"Year after year, this study has proven to be an essential resource for asset managers who need to distribute funds, and for plan sponsors who are looking to improve fund offerings," said Brooks Herman, Head of Data and Research for BrightScope. "We've yet to find another research report in the market that provides such an in-depth view of target date funds and fund families." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Washington D.C. Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 11, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its third annual list of the top Washington D.C. area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It is gratifying to observe the positive changes these Washington D.C. companies have made to their plans year over year," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder of BrightScope. "By tracking progress with the BrightScope 401k Ratings, we can see just how companies are focusing on the components that make up their plans in an effort to maximize their employees' chance of a successful retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Names Top 25 Airlines with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 29, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the airline industry with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This is the fifth list in a new series where BrightScope highlights the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"In an industry with such a large number of employees, it is exponentially more important for workers and plan sponsors to be aware of their 401k plan quality," said Brooks Herman, Head of Research for BrightScope. "By offering tools like BrightScope's 401k Ratings tool and industry rankings, we insure both sides have a benchmark with which they can compare – and potentially improve – the very plans that impact the financial futures of so many." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases Top 25 Technology Companies with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 30, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies in the technology industry with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This is the fourth list in a new series where BrightScope highlights the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"The technology industry is extremely competitive, which means it is vital for companies and employees to know the quality of their 401k plan as well as what fellow tech leaders are offering to see how they stack up," said Brooks Herman, Head of Research for BrightScope. "A competitive landscape is good for everyone as long as it fosters strong financial futures, which is where tools like BrightScope and these ranked lists help – giving people easy access to the information needed to make smart financial decisions." Download PDF

BrightScope Names Michael Kitces, Industry Luminary and Partner at Pinnacle Advisory Group, to Advisory Board

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 16, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce that Michael Kitces, Partner and Director of Research at Pinnacle Advisory Group, and publisher of the Nerd's Eye View financial planning industry blog, has joined its Advisory Board and will serve in an ongoing capacity as an Advisor to the company and its executives. In the near term, Kitces, along with fellow Advisory Board member and industry leader, the "Reformed Broker" Josh Brown, will provide insights from their professional experience to inform enhancements to BrightScope Advisor Pages, including an ADV fee disclosure feature, which will launch later this year.

"Michael Kitces has proven to be at the forefront of many complex issues coming to light as the financial planning industry matures," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "His forward thinking approach to social media and digital marketing within the industry, combined with his tremendous knowledge of the space and his passion for elevating industry standards, will be a terrific asset to BrightScope and we are honored to have him on board." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases Top 25 Companies in the Health and Medicine Industry with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 26, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets in the health and medicine sector. This is the third list in a new series that BrightScope will regularly issue to highlight the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"Like all important life matters, whether it's physical health or financial well-being, due diligence and research should be a priority," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "That is where these lists and the BrightScope rating can help – it gives employers and employees easy access to information about their 401k plan and provides benchmarks for creating more robust and reliable offerings." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Fourth Annual Top 25 List of Atlanta-­Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 25, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its fourth annual list of the top Atlanta-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"Atlanta should be very proud of the ratings on this year's list because the scores improved significantly, demonstrating that local companies are actively working to improve their 401k plans," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "By quantifying 401k plan quality, BrightScope recognizes and highlights the companies that are delivering secure retirement outcomes to Atlanta workers." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 New York City Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 19, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its third annual list of the top New York City area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets.

"It is indicative to see so many new companies on this year's New York City top plans list – these employers are paying attention to the retirement benefits they offer and have made huge strides recently to offer more robust plans to employees," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of BrightScope. "The unparalleled insight of the BrightScope Rating gives other companies across the nation a benchmark of success in 401k performance that they should seek to achieve." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 25 Companies in the Finance and Insurance Industry with the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 26, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets in the finance and insurance sector. This is the second list in a new series that BrightScope will regularly issue to highlight the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"Financial services companies play a critical role in providing the investment and insurance products that deliver retirement outcomes for millions of ordinary Americans," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "By offering robust 401k plans, these companies demonstrate their knowledge first-hand by promoting a promising financial future for their own employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists Top 25 Law Firms With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 5, 2013) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 law firms with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This is the first list in a new series that BrightScope will regularly issue to highlight the strongest plans within leading industries across the nation.

"While each industry is vastly different, the need for easily accessible data and insight into 401k plans is universal," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Like all of our lists, this information is meant to encourage workers to easily evaluate their own retirement plans, gain a deeper understanding of its components, and push sponsors for more robust and financially beneficial plans." Download PDF

BrightScope OnTarget Indexes Now Available on Morningstar Platforms

The BrightScope OnTarget Indexes give 401k market participants the ability to see how accurately a target date fund lives up to its stated goals as outlined in the prospectus. Unlike other target date indexes, the BrightScope OnTarget Indexes account for actual participant behavior when determining the appropriate asset allocation for participants approaching retirement. Industry adoption of the BrightScope OnTarget Indexes can improve participant outcomes and ensure retirement income security.

"The industry demanded target date benchmarks," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "And while other target date indexes have been introduced recently, the majority of them are peer groups, or averages of what target date managers are doing. We think that proper due diligence requires both a peer group assessment and a fixed, fundamental standard such as the OTI." Download PDF

BRIGHTSCOPE ANNOUNCES ITS FOURTH ANNUAL YEAR-­END TOP 30 401K PLANS LIST

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 11, 2012) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce the fourth annual BrightScope Year-End Top 30 Ratings List covering 401k plans with more than $1 billion in assets. BrightScope obtains an increasing amount of its data directly from plan sponsors and recordkeepers, and augments these primary sources with data from publicly available sources such as the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission. By analyzing and interpreting this data, BrightScope provides unprecedented transparency into the 401k industry.

"This is our fourth year compiling the Year-End Top 30 Ratings list, and yet again we are seeing companies offering outstanding plans," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "It is clear that plan sponsors are effectively using quantitative tools like the BrightScope Rating to meaningfully improve their plans. Better plans lead to better outcomes for each and every participant who depends on their plan for a dignified retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 25 Virginia Beach Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 15, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second round list of the top Virginia Beach area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $10 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"We are pleased to share this list of the top Virginia Beach companies and the robust plans they offer," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of BrightScope. "One of the many reasons we created the BrightScope Rating was to share these lists and show other companies and employees the specific benefits and components required to make a reliable 401k plan and ensure a dignified retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 15 New Orleans Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 13, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the New Orleans area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"When important data about financial advisors is easy to access and simple to understand everyone wins: investors have a clear and confident view of what's available and advisors can improve and expand their business," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "The deep level of information provided through BrightScope Advisor Pages fosters knowledge to bring more transparency to the wealth management sphere and a stronger connection between investors and advisors." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Buffalo Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 8, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second round list of the top Buffalo area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $25 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"As we spotlight different companies across the country for their efforts in offering reliable and robust 401k plans, the high BrightScope Ratings reassure employees of their positive financial futures," said Dan Weeks, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of BrightScope. "Our mission with these lists is to provide plan sponsors and participants, like the Buffalo companies on this list, with the data and information they need to advance their 401k plans even more." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 10 Greenville Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 6, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 10 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Greenville area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Many advisors do not disclose performance details to the public which makes it difficult to conduct due diligence when looking for an advisor, and challenging for the best advisors to grow their practice," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "As a result, we created BrightScope Advisor Pages to encourage advisors to be more transparent about their practice so investors can be confident when selecting the most appropriate financial advisor." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Charlotte Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 25, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second round list of the top Charlotte area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"An effective 401k plan helps instill employees' confidence in their financial futures and should be placed in high regard as an important aspect of a company's culture," said Dan Weeks, co-founder and COO of BrightScope. "We have extended our list to include the Top 25 Charlotte-based companies with the best 401k plans – they should be proud for their dedication and commitment to making robust plans for their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Top 15 Birmingham Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 23, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Birmingham area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Successful research and due diligence is achieved only when pertinent information is easily accessible to help enable an informed decision," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We created BrightScope Advisor Pages to make sure those looking for the best financial advisor can find one easily, quickly and confidently, without searching through massive amounts of information from multiple resources." Download PDF

BrightScope Welcomes Dr. Stephen Coggeshall, CTO of ID Analytics, to Advisory Board

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 18, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce that Dr. Stephen Coggeshall, CTO of ID Analytics, has joined its Advisory Board and will serve in an ongoing capacity as an Advisor to the company and its executives. Dr. Coggeshall’s analytics expertise will help BrightScope further build out its world-class software development and analytics organization and support the company's mission of bringing unparalleled transparency to the financial services industry.

"Dr. Stephen Coggeshall is an expert in leading teams of world-class scientists working to attack complex business problems through advanced algorithms on big data. He'll be a great asset to our company and will help propel BrightScope's suite of data analytics to an unmatched level," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Dr. Coggeshall's vast knowledge of consumer behavior modeling, optimization, forecasting and financial engineering will be a vital asset to BrightScope and we are honored to have him on board." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Indianapolis Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 11, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second round list of the top Indianapolis area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"Millions of Americans rely on their 401k for a stable financial future, yet many do not have a comprehensive understanding of their plans' benefits," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "The BrightScope Rating provides employees and companies with easily understandable and accessible information that can help them create stronger and more robust plans – much like the Indianapolis companies on this list have already done." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Top 15 San Antonio Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 9, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the San Antonio area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Like all significant life decisions, due diligence and research should be performed when it comes time to choose a financial advisor. However historically, it's been difficult and time consuming to find all the relevant information required to make an informed decision," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "That is where BrightScope Advisor Pages comes in – by creating an industry standard and providing access to easily understandable data, investors feel confident and assured of their options when choosing the best financial advisor." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Top Cincinnati Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 2, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Cincinnati area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Before BrightScope Advisor Pages, finding an advisor was very often a hit-and-miss process driven by word-of-mouth, referrals and exhaustive research," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "To put an end to investors’ longwinded hunts for information about an advisor's credentials, work history, experience with regulators, etc., BrightScope culled through this data and turned it into an easily searchable and reliable online database." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Raleigh-Durham Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. and Raleigh-Durham, NC (September 27, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Raleigh-Durham area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"The Raleigh-Durham companies on this list should be proud of the depth and strength of the 401k plans they offer their employees," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "We are pleased to see that industry standards like the BrightScope Rating are helping educate plan sponsors and recipients about their options and opening the door for successful financial futures." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Top 15 Salt Lake City Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 25, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Salt Lake City area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Making smart decisions about financial advisors used to require hours and hours of unwieldy research with tenuous results," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Now with BrightScope Advisor Pages, investors have an invaluable tool that makes this crucial information not only widely available, but finally, easily accessible." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Pittsburgh Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 20, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second round list of the top Pittsburgh area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.< br />
"In the wealth management sphere, being able to demonstrate and measure plan performance and efficiency can be challenging," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "That is why we created the BrightScope Rating, which assigns 401k plans a numerical value to help advisors, investors, companies and their employees validate their plans' high standards and ultimately help plan participants, like those on this Pittsburgh list, retire in dignity." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Top 15 Pittsburgh Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 18, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Pittsburgh area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"The amount of time it would take to obtain and understand the information necessary for selecting the right financial advisor involves an endless amount of public records, data and resources," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "With BrightScope Advisor Pages, this data is conveniently repurposed and repositioned in a way that allows investors to find and use it easily and confidently." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Top 15 Orlando Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 11, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Orlando area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"BrightScope's Advisor Pages provides the necessary decision-making information on more than 770,000 advisors, which allows investors to make confident, well-informed financial choices," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Since we have seen the median age of our population increase as baby boomers approach retirement, ensuring all Americans are prepared for their financial future is a crucial element in the well-being of this nation's economy." Download PDF

BrightScope Appoints Sonia Ahuja as EVP of Business Development and Strategy

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Sept. 5, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce that Sonia Ahuja, former Chief Strategy Officer at First Allied Securities, has joined the BrightScope team as Executive Vice President of Business Development and Strategy. In her new role, Sonia will drive growth and help build and expand relationships with broker-dealers, custodians, banks, recordkeepers and asset managers to deliver on BrightScope's big data inside the enterprise strategy. Sonia's addition to the BrightScope team marks the most senior external hire in the company's history.

"We are very excited to welcome Sonia Ahuja to the BrightScope team and are confident her deep domain expertise and sterling reputation will prove to be a tremendous asset as we expand our footprint in the financial services industry," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Sonia's experience in formulating and implementing strategies to accelerate growth, enhance business models and grow margins will make the company stronger and open doors to building and expanding our relationships with broker-dealers, custodians, banks, recordkeepers and asset managers. This is a big step forward in BrightScope's existence and demonstrates the depth of our growing team." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues Top 15 Hartford Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 28, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Hartford area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"There is no reason such important and influential information about financial advisors should be obfuscated in a such a way that it prevents investors from finding and understanding it," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "BrightScope Advisor Pages is the groundbreaking solution to that - anyone who wants to learn more about financial advisors before tapping one to manage their assets can do so easily and accurately online." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 25 St. Louis Area-­Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 23, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second round list of the top St. Louis area-­based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"The 401k has become the most prominent retirement savings vehicle, which is why we created the BrightScope Rating as the industry standard to align employee and company interests and create clear, objective benchmarks for plan performance," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "The St. Louis companies on this list should be proud of the strong and dependable 401k plans they have constructed to ensure their employees have a successful and dignified retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases Top 25 St. Louis Area-­Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 21, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the St. Louis area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select financial advisor.

"One of the principal objectives of BrightScope Advisor Pages is to create a community users by redefining the way investors and advisors engage with each other," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-­? founder of BrightScope. "With BrightScope Advisor Pages we are revolutionizing the investor-­advisor relationship and dramatically increasing the accessibility of financial information, which results in better financial decisions to help millions retire in dignity. Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 25 Cleveland Area--Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 14, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Cleveland area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Investors should not have to sift through unnecessary and unreliable resources to find the information they need to choose the best financial advisor for their needs," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "That is why we created BrightScope Advisor Pages, which simplifies the process by offering a reliable, comprehensive, search-friendly database to help investors efficiently and confidently access the information they need." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Miami Area-­Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 9, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Miami area-­based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"We created the BrightScope Rating to calculate a single numerical score for every 401k plan in the country, which brings unprecedented insight to companies and employees interested in the value and components of their 401k plans," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "The city of Miami should be proud of the companies on this year's list – by offering such reliable and robust 401k plans, it is evident that they recognize the importance and necessity of successful retirements for their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals Top 25 Denver Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 7, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Denver area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Our goal at BrightScope is to propel transparency into the wealth management sector, which leads to better decision making and dignified financial futures for Americans," said Mike Alfred, CEO and cofounder of BrightScope. "One of the best ways we do this is through BrightScope Advisor Pages, which gives investors easy access to the information they need to make an informed and well-rounded financial decision when choosing an advisor." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 10 Sacramento Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 2, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top 10 Sacramento area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"The BrightScope Rating was designed to show companies what they are doing right and where they can improve, while also offering individuals a deeper understanding of their plan to drive better decision-making and better visibility into how their plan stacks up to others," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "It is apparent that the Sacramento plans on this year's list have made every effort to create plans that ensure a successful retirement for their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 25 Kansas City Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 1, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Kansas City area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Before BrightScope Advisor Pages, selecting the right advisor was limited to personal recommendations and what little information investors and consumers could find in searches on the SEC and FINRA websites, Google and LinkedIn," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "BrightScope Advisor Pages not only easily streamlines that process, but is one of the best examples of bringing vital transparency to the financial management industry." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 25 Tampa-St. Petersburg Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 26, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Tampa-St. Petersburg area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"A variety of 401k components, from menu quality to the amount paid in fees, can dramatically impact the financial futures of employees," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "That is why we issue these lists – so other companies, both Florida-based and on the national level, can use these plans as a guide for creating a robust and reliable 401k plan that sets them apart in such a competitive financial environment." Download PDF

BrightScope and Target Date Analytics Release Latest Comprehensive Target Date Fund Study

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 17, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, together with Target Date Analytics (www.ontargetindex.com), the leading independent provider of analysis, theory, and benchmarking of target date funds, today announced the release of Popping the Hood V. The newest study in the popular Popping the Hood series provides a detailed analysis of target date funds (TDFs) and fund families, making it the most comprehensive source of information available in the TDF marketplace.

"This study is absolutely critical for asset managers who are looking to distribute their funds as well as plan sponsors who need to make better decisions on which funds to include on their menus," said Brooks Herman, Head of Research for BrightScope. "Currently, there is no other research report in the market that offers such an in-depth perspective on target date funds and fund families." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights Top 10 Oklahoma City Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 13, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 10 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Oklahoma City area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"We created BrightScope Advisor Pages to give people an un-biased, reliable and convenient resource to help them find the best advisor to meet their unique financial needs," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. “By making comprehensive, accurate information on advisors easily accessible, BrightScope is at the forefront of the movement for transparency within the wealth management industry, ultimately benefiting financial professionals and investors.” Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Detroit Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 12, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Detroit area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"By using the BrightScope Rating to create these lists we bring additional value and insight to companies that are looking to enhance their 401k offerings in the competitive retirement plan market," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "It is apparent that the Detroit companies on this year's list have dedicated the time to create 401k plans that offer the essential components needed to ensure a successful retirement for the employees that help their companies prosper." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 25 Portland Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 5, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Portland area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"Portland should be proud of the variety of companies present on this year's list because it shows that any company, in any industry, can create a strong and effective 401k plan for its employees," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "As we release each of these lists, we hope that other companies will be motivated to ask for positive changes to their existing 401k plans in an effort to achieve a successful retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights Top 25 Milwaukee Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 3, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Milwaukee area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"One of our goals through BrightScope Advisor Pages is to spearhead the movement for transparency within the wealth management sphere by providing accurate and accessible information," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "BrightScope is committed to being the most reliable and convenient resource for investors searching for the right advisor to meet their unique financial situation." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases the Top 25 Minneapolis Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 28, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Minneapolis area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"It is apparent that the companies on this list have created high quality and effective 401k plans for their employees, making each of them a standard in which all other companies in the Minneapolis area should strive to imitate," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "Our hope with these lists is to inform companies and employees of the components necessary for a successful 401k plan so they know what to request when asking for a better plan." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases Top 15 Memphis Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 26, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Memphis area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Since launching BrightScope Advisor Pages more than a year ago, we have nearly doubled the number of advisors in our database, further establishing BrightScope at the forefront of data transparency for the financial market," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Not only is BrightScope Advisor Pages a comprehensive and reliable resource for investors searching for the best financial advisor, it is the go-to platform for financial advisors looking to take advantage of the accelerating migration to social media." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 25 Denver Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 21, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Denver area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"One of the goals of BrightScope's 401k plan Rating is to provide plan sponsors and participants insight into the details of their 401k plans, and encourage those with insufficient plans to call for change," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "By releasing this Denver list, we hope that those who are calling for that change will look to the companies we've highlighted for inspiration." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Top 20 Sacramento Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 20, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Sacramento area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"With information on more than three-quarters of a million financial professionals, BrightScope Advisor Pages gives people an easy and efficient resource for finding the best financial advisor to fit their needs," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "The data we have available has accelerated the pace of change for the financial market by increasing search visibility and providing more prominent information than what is usually available on an advisory firm's website or LinkedIn profile." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 25 Seattle Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 14, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Seattle area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"We are pleased to recognize these Seattle companies that excel in shaping their 401k plans to ensure dependable and positive retirement outcomes for their employees," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "These top 25 companies represent the best in the area when it comes to designing and running the highest quality 401k plans." Download PDF

BrightScope Names Top 25 Portland, Oregon Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 12, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Portland, Oregon area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"With each RIA list, it is our goal to build regional awareness of transparent information available on financial advisors to ensure individuals have an easier way of choosing the most appropriate professional for their needs," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "By tapping into the popularity and ease of use of social media, BrightScope Advisor Pages allows any investor to access vital information with just a few mouse clicks, something which was previously impossible." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Philadelphia Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 7, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Philadelphia area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"We understand 401k plans can be one of the most effective and most confusing ways to help prepare for retirement which is why we're dedicated to provide a free, easy way for people to find information on their plan," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "We applaud the companies in Philadelphia for doing their part to guide employees toward a successful financial future." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues List of Top 25 Raleigh, North Carolina Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 5, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Raleigh, North Carolina area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Regionalized Top RIA lists have proven to be a great way to educate consumers that there is a way to easily research and identify the most appropriate advisor for their financial situation through BrightScope Advisor Pages," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Currently many advisors and broker-dealers do not disclose performance to the general public, making it difficult for prospects to select the right advisor and challenging for the best advisors to grow their practice. With these regular lists, we are committed to accelerating the financial advisory industry's growth and increase its legitimacy while giving consumers peace-of-mind." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Phoenix Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 31, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Phoenix area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"We continue to release the Top 25 401k plan lists in various cities to recognize the dedication and commitment these companies have to their employees' financial well-being," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "401k plans can be one of the most influential and effective ways to help America's workforce retire in dignity, and at BrightScope we have dedicated our work to supplying the essential information to help make that happen." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces List of Top 25 Minneapolis Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 29, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Minneapolis area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"As demonstrated by the recent release of a white paper highlighting the need for an industry consensus on performance standard for financial advisors, and through BrightScope Advisor Pages, we are committed to driving transparency and standardization into the financial market," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "With Advisor Pages we are not only turning complex data into easily accessible and understandable information, but educating investors so they can be assured they choose the best financial advisor for their needs." Download PDF

BrightScope and The Spaulding Group, Inc. Release White Paper That Proposes a Universal Performance Standard for Financial Advisors

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 22, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, and The Spaulding Group (www.spauldinggrp.com), a global leader in investment performance measurement products and services, today jointly announced the release of a new white paper, "Universal Advisory Performance Standards," highlighting the need for an industry consensus performance standard for financial advisors. The free white paper can be downloaded at www.uapstandards.org.

"Over time, we envision that every financial advisor will want and need to disclose the performance of their investment selections on behalf of clients," said Mike Alfred, the CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "As the leading performance measurement firm in the money management industry, The Spaulding Group's expertise is perfectly complimentary to BrightScope's vision, and together we're confident we can unify the industry around this new standard." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases List of Top 15 Las Vegas Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 16, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 15 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Las Vegas area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"With BrightScope Advisor Pages we have accelerated the growth of the financial services industry and increased its legitimacy immensely," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Combining the popularity of social media and the vast amounts of government data we have collected over the years, investors can now find the information they need to choose the best financial advisor." Download PDF

BrightScope Ranks San Diego Area-Based Companies with 401k Plans Containing More Than $100M in Assets

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 11, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of San Diego area-based companies with 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope expanded the list to include all San Diego area-based plans that fall into this category – 21 in total.

"We are proud that BrightScope can be associated with the companies included on this list and say that we call the San Diego area home," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "It is great to see top companies remain on this list as well as welcome the handful of newcomers. In the financial industry marketplace there is always room to improve and create better offerings for employees and I am confident the companies on this list, along with other local based businesses, are striving to do that each and every day." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces List of Top 25 Fort Worth Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 8, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Fort Worth area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"We saw a need in the financial industry for more transparency, and with the creation of BrightScope Advisor Pages we have added an even higher level of value to fill that void," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. “By making public data about the financial industry more usable, searchable and available, we have made significant advancements to help protect and improve Americans’ financial futures." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 25 Boston Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 4, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Boston area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"The Boston area-based companies included on this year’s list possess successful plan characteristics that other companies should strive to provide to their employees. Knowledge really is power when it comes to retirement," said Dan Weeks, founder and COO of BrightScope. "When companies look at the individual components that make 401k plan offerings more robust, they can make positive changes and significantly improve the financial futures of their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces List of Top 25 Charlotte Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 1, 2012) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Charlotte area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"With comprehensive information on nearly 700,000 advisors, BrightScope Advisor Pages is growing at a rapid rate in order to help investors more quickly and easily find the right financial advisor for their needs," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Through this useful and insightful resource we are reinforcing the benefits that comprehensive data can have on the financial futures of Americans." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Third Annual Top 25 List of Atlanta-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 26, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its third annual list of the top Atlanta-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $50 million in assets.

"This year there's a handful of new companies on the list, which means the breadth and depth of 401k plans offered to Atlanta employees is increasing, creating more reliable financial futures across the board," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Similar to what many of the companies on this list have already done, other Atlanta companies can use the BrightScope rating to learn how their plans can continue to help and support their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights List of Top 25 Austin Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 25, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Austin area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover,research, and select a financial advisor.

"With BrightScope Advisor Pages we have liberated and indexed SEC and FINRA data about financial advisors into an intuitive and innovative search engine," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We took information that was once extremely opaque and difficult for Americans to obtain, and have successfully re-positioned it into a comprehensive online database that has not been achievable in the financial management sphere until now." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 25 List of Bay Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 19, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Bay Area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"The Bay Area is home to some of the most well-known companies in the world, and it's great to see that despite their size and growth they are focused on maximizing the company's retirement plan," Dan Weeks, Founder and COO. "With the BrightScope Rating, companies can learn how key variables impact 401k plan performance over time and initiate change within their organization accordingly." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces List of Top 25 Columbus Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 17, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Columbus area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"BrightScope Advisor Pages filled a transparency void in the financial services industry which had existed for a long time, until now," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "With a database of nearly 600,000 financial advisors, investors now have a simple way to research information needed to make an informed decision, so they can be assured they found one that is a great fit for their personal needs." Download PDF

BrightScope Lists the Top 25 Houston Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 12, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Houston area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"As one of the most powerful and popular retirement savings vehicles, the efficiency of 401k plans is increasingly important because most Americans rely heavily on them for future financial security," said Bryan Lorenz, Vice President of Data at BrightScope. "It’s not surprising to see that oil and energy companies make up the majority of this list – it means they are listening to employees and leveraging their success wisely to create stronger, more robust 401k plans." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues List of Top 25 Indianapolis Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 11, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Indianapolis area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Comprehensive and trustworthy research on financial advisors helps investors make better-informed decisions about which advisor best fits their needs," said Mike Alfred CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "In the current financial climate, it is critical that investors take the initiative to do their own research, and BrightScope is on a mission to simplify that due diligence in order to better protect and advance the financial futures of America’s workers." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Washington, D.C. Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 5, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Washington, D.C. area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"It's important for us to recognize those companies that are dedicating their energy and effort to making 401k plans a reliable resource for their employees' financial futures," said Bryan Lorenz, vice president of data at BrightScope. "Washington, D.C. should be proud of the companies that have made a second appearance on this list as well as the newcomers who are stepping up their offerings." Download PDF

BrightScope Issues List of Top 25 Nashville Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 4, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Nashville area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Before Advisor Pages, it was extremely cumbersome and time-consuming for the average investor to access essential information needed to make an informed choice about their financial advisor," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Now, investors are able to easily and comprehensively find the best advisor to fit their specific needs and criteria." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights the Top 25 Chicago Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 2, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Chicago area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"It’s great to see that most of the companies that were on the list in 2010 remained on this year’s list and many have even improved their rating," said Bryan Lorenz, vice president of data at BrightScope. "It's clear they have continued to focus on plan improvements that will give their employees the ability to reach retirement objectives faster." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces List of Top 25 Seattle Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 28, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Seattle area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Before BrightScope Advisor Pages there was no way for the average investor to easily access comprehensive data when looking for or researching a financial advisor," said Mike Alfred, CEO and cofounder of BrightScope. "Now with our inclusive database, investors can be assured they will find a trustworthy advisor that is a good fit for their investment needs." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Los Angeles Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 22, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top Los Angeles area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"There are more than twice as many plans in Los Angeles this year with a BrightScope ranking of 83 or above, which shows that employers are taking action to make their retirement plans work harder for their employees," said Bryan Lorenz, vice president of data at BrightScope. "BrightScope helps uncover opportunities for improvement in plans so plan sponsors, financial advisors, and employees can identify what changes need to be made, and demand action, in order to maximize 401k benefits." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals List of Top 25 Detroit Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 20, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Detroit area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Proper disclosures about financial advisors can help investors make better-educated decisions about which advisor to work with, while also protecting themselves against fraud," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "At BrightScope we aim to make advisor due diligence as easy as possible for investors by offering Advisor Pages, an easily searchable, comprehensive, trustworthy research database." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases List of the Top 25 New York City Area-Based Companies With the Best 401K Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 16, 2012) –BrightScope ( www.brightscope.com ), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced its second annual list of the top New York City area-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. This year BrightScope has extended the list to include the top 25 companies.

"It is great to see that nearly 90 percent of these plans are new members to this year's list," said Bryan Lorenz, vice president of data at BrightScope. "New York City should be proud of the diversity and strength of these companies' rankings. The difference between first and 25th is only six points, which means more companies are paying attention to improving the plans they offer employees for stable and confident financial futures." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights List of Top 25 Atlanta Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 14, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Atlanta area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.< br/>
"With BrightScope Advisor Pages investors can find detailed data on more than 475,000 advisors and 45,000 advisory firms," said Mike Alfred co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "It is the only comprehensive, free, search-friendly database of financial advisors that harnesses the power of search engines to connect investors with top advisors." Download PDF

BrightScope Adds "The Reformed Broker" Josh Brown to Advisory Board

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 13, 2012) –BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce that Josh Brown, a prominent blogger, contributor, author and financial advisor has joined its Advisory Board and will serve in an ongoing capacity as an Advisor to the company and its executives. Josh will help BrightScope further extend its leadership position and support BrightScope's mission of bringing unparalleled transparency to the financial services industry.

"Josh Brown's extraordinary insight and impact on the financial services market has made him one of the most respected names in the space today," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "His participation as a member of BrightScope's Advisory Board will open new doors to help grow the company and solidify our leadership position in the industry. In addition, he believes that, as the most promising and comprehensive platform for advisors, BrightScope's Advisor Pages product is well-positioned to take advantage of the accelerating migration of advisors to social media." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases List of Top 25 Omaha Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 6, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Omaha area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"BrightScope Advisor Pages offers unmatched transparency and insight into the wealth management sphere by offering investors an inclusive look into financial advisors' activities and background," said Mike Alfred co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "With BrightScope Advisor Pages, investors can be assured they are finding comprehensive, unbiased information about those they trust with planning their financial future." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals List of Top 25 Phoenix Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, CA (Feb 29, 2012) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Phoenix area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.< br/>
"BrightScope Advisor Pages is the only, in-depth resource that easily allows and encourages investors to extensively research a financial advisor's experience, certifications, fees and conduct," said Mike Alfred co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "The BrightScope Advisor Pages product has pioneered a new level of transparency that has not been attainable in the financial advisory business until now." Download PDF

BrightScope Discloses List of Top 25 Miami Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 23, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Miami area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Motivated by the success of our 401k ratings and by the increased consumer demand for transparent data on financial advisors, we created BrightScope Advisor Pages," said Mike Alfred co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "Advisor Pages allows investors to further educate themselves by researching an advisor's work history, experience, background, etc. With a deeper knowledge and understanding of the industry, investors have the tools needed to make better informed financial decisions." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces List of Top 25 Dallas-Fort Worth Area-Based RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, CA--(Feb 22, 2012) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Through BrightScope Advisor Pages we have vastly improved the transparency of the wealth management market by making it easier for investors to find information about financial advisors," said Mike Alfred, co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "At BrightScope we are committed to developing the most accurate and comprehensive database of financial professionals so investors can be certain they are finding the best advisors to fit their needs." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights San Francisco's Top 25 RIA Firms

SAN DIEGO, CA--(Feb 15, 2012) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms in San Francisco, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is part of the series that BrightScope regularly issues to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"BrightScope Advisor Pages provides a searchable online directory containing unparalleled insight into investment advisors' backgrounds such as assets under management, education, disputes, and more," said Mike Alfred, co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "Through the development of this comprehensive resource on financial service industry professionals, BrightScope has expanded its leadership position in the retirement and 401k market into the broader wealth management marketplace." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 20 Tips Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 14, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) Fund Distribution List for the 401k and defined contribution industry. According to the BrightScope Beacon defined contribution database, TIPS funds represent roughly $15 billion of the $3.2 trillion in 401k, 403b, and 457 assets tracked. More detailed information on the TIPS industry and the Top 20 Funds is now available in a free white paper from BrightScope, "TIPS Funds Continue Strong DC Asset Growth." It can be downloaded now at www.brightscope.com/research.

"The inflation-resistant potential of TIPS funds has caused a surge in interest and new investments within retirement plans. In fact, the amount of investable assets dedicated to TIPS funds has been growing at a steady 30% rate as plan sponsors, consultants and advisors see more value in diversification," said Ryan Alfred, President and co-founder of BrightScope. "This makes having access to detailed information and analytics about TIPS funds invaluable for asset managers looking for a competitive advantage." Download PDF

BrightScope Partners with Arkovi to Improve Financial Advisor Social Media Engagement

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 18, 2012) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research today announced a strategic partnership with Arkovi (www.arkovi.com), the premier financial services social media solution for archiving, compliance and market intelligence, to help investment professionals use social media safely and successfully and to provide a way to store, monitor and analyze the content created.

"Social has pervaded every aspect of our lives. Unfortunately, the current financial services compliance paradigm has made it difficult for the average financial advisor to effectively use this powerful medium," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "That’s why we partnered with Arkovi – we want to make it easier and safer for financial advisors to engage in social media in a truly authentic, nonprepackaged, way" Download PDF

BrightScope Releases List of Top 25 Baltimore Area-Based Registered Investment Advisor Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 4, 2012) – BrightScope ( www.brightscope.com ), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in the Baltimore area, focused on individual money management. BrightScope identifies firms that primarily manage money for individuals based on the client types information firms provide in their ADV filings. This is the ninth list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages(TM), a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"BrightScope Advisor Pages provides investors with the tools and information needed to make well-informed decisions about their financial activities," said Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. "Our comprehensive, robust database is unmatched. By creating detailed advisor profiles and sophisticated search functionality, we have significantly streamlined the research process to ensure that investors can easily find an advisor who best fits their needs." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Its Third Annual Year-End Top 30 401k Plans List

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 20, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce the third annual BrightScope Year End Top 30 Ratings List covering 401k plans with more than $1 billion in assets. BrightScope obtains an increasing amount of its data directly from plan sponsors and recordkeepers, and augments these primary sources with data from publicly available sources such as the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission. By analyzing and interpreting this data, BrightScope provides unprecedented transparency into the 401k industry.

"There is no doubt that access to better evaluation tools and information on retirement plans has had a positive effect on the overall quality of plans available to employees," said Mike Alfred, CEO and cofounder of BrightScope. "The average rating of the plans on this year's Top 30 List increased more than 75 basis points over 2010. This tells us that plan sponsors are using data more effectively, conducting better due diligence, and making superior overall decisions. Ultimately these improvements will lead to a more financially secure future for American workers." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases List of Top 25 Houston Area-Based Registered Investment Advisor Firms

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 14, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in the Houston area, focused on individual money management. BrightScope identifies firms that primarily manage money for individuals based on the client types information firms provide in their ADV filings. This is the eighth list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"BrightScope Advisor Pages is the only consumer-facing, in-depth resource that allows investors to extensively research financial advisors," said Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. "By using publicly available data on financial advisors to create our comprehensive directory, BrightScope Advisor Pages has set a new standard of transparency that previously did not exist in the financial services industry." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 25 Philadelphia Area-Based Registered Investment Advisor Firms With the Most Assets Under Management

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 7, 2011) – BrightScope ( www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in the Philadelphia area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. BrightScope identifies firms that primarily manage money for individuals based on the client types information firms provide in their ADV filings. This is the seventh list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Our goal in creating BrightScope Advisor Pages is to significantly increase transparency in the broader wealth management industry by displaying publicly available data on financial advisors in a consumer-friendly manner," said Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. "With our robust database, it is incredibly easy for investors to research financial advisors online. Advisors increasingly recognize the importance of maintaining an online presence and utilize our platform to build their brand and grow their business." Download PDF

BrightScope Discloses the Top 25 Boston Area-Based Registered Investment Advisor Firms With the Most Assets Under Management

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (December 1, 2011) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in the Boston area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. BrightScope identifies firms that primarily manage money for individuals based on the client types information firms provide in their ADV filings. This is the sixth list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Until recently, a comprehensive, consumer-friendly directory of financial professionals did not exist. Now, any investor who wants to learn more about their financial advisor can use BrightScope Advisor Pages to do thorough research," said Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. “By presenting publicly available information on advisors in a transparent and accessible manner, BrightScope Advisor Pages is a legitimate game-changer for the financial services industry." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 25 Washington, D.C. Area-Based Registered Investment Advisor Firms With the Most Assets Under Management

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 22, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in the Washington, D.C. area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. BrightScope identifies firms that primarily manage money for individuals based on the client types information firms provide in their ADV filings. This is the fifth list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"With BrightScope Advisor Pages, one of our principal objectives is to create a resource for investors where they can easily access information needed to make an informed decision on a financial advisor," said Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. "With sophisticated search functionality and a directory of over 450,000 financial advisors, we equip investors with the tools needed to vet advisors based on their background and experience, and simultaneously, we provide advisors with a unique marketing platform to showcase their knowledge and expertise." Download PDF

American Century Investments LIVESTRONG® Portfolios Garner Top Ranking in Study of 34 Target Date Fund Families

Kansas City, Missouri (PRWEB) November 17, 2011 -- American Century Investments, manager of LIVESTRONG® Portfolios, has been rated the top target date mutual fund family among 34 ranked in a new joint study by BrightScope and Target Date Analytics. Released in October, the "Popping the Hood, IV 2011" study provides detailed analysis of target date funds and fund families, geared to defined contribution plan sponsors and advisors.

BrightScope (www.brightscope.com) is a leading independent financial information and investment research firm and Target Date Analytics (www.ontargetindex.com) is an independent provider of analysis, theory, and benchmarking of target date funds.

"We're honored to be recognized as the top target date fund manager in the new 'Popping the Hood, IV' study," said American Century Investments' Rich Weiss, senior vice president and senior portfolio manager on the LIVESTRONG Portfolios team. "We believe the LIVESTRONG Portfolios offer a robust glide path, effective diversification and disciplined active management, which are key to helping investors achieve their long-term retirement goals." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases the Top 25 San Diego Area-Based Registered Investment Advisor Firms With the Most Assets Under Management

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 15, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in the San Diego area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This is the fourth list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Choosing the right financial advisor is a major decision that depends on thorough research and accurate information," said Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. "At BrightScope we believe that the best way to help investors find the right advisors, as well as help advisors grow their businesses intelligently, is to create a simple, comprehensive, search-friendly database of financial advisors, which is why we created BrightScope Advisor Pages™." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 20 Stable Value Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 14, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 20 Stable Value Funds by total distribution for the 401k and defined contribution industry. This list is part of a series of rankings BrightScope will regularly publish to provide investment managers, mutual fund companies, investors, and others with more insight into the top funds and managers in the retirement marketplace. The proliferation of this critical information will dramatically increase the efficiency of the marketplace and lead to lower cost plans and better outcomes for the 60 million Americans who depend on their 401k plan for retirement.

“As seen from the pending liquidation of the Schwab Stable Value Fund and the increase in general disclosure issues, the environment to operate these funds is increasing in volatility,” said Brooks Herman, Head of Research for BrightScope. “Stable Value Funds represent about $460B of the defined contribution assets in our database and the Schwab Stable Value fund is $4.6B, about 1% of the market.” Download PDF

BrightScope Names Chicago's Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor Firms With the Most Assets Under Management

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 8, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in Chicago, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This is the third list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Finding information on a financial advisor was formerly a cumbersome task, but BrightScope Advisor Pages has significantly shifted the paradigm. With sophisticated search functionality and a simple, userfriendly interface, anyone with internet access can use BrightScope Advisor Pages to find a financial advisor," said Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. "Now, more than ever, it is critical that investors take the initiative to do their own research online." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases the Top 25 Los Angeles Area-Based Registered Investment Advisor Firms with the Most Assets Under Management

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 2, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in the Los Angeles area, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This is the second list in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"Proper disclosures about financial advisors can help investors make better-educated decisions about which advisor or firm to hire," Shaloha Aires, GM of Advisor Pages at BrightScope. "We are expanding BrightScope’s leadership position beyond the 401k and retirement marketplaces with our Advisor Pages™ to bring unprecedented transparency to the broader wealth management sphere." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces New York City's Top 25 Registered Investment Advisor Firms With the Most Assets Under Management

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 26, 2011) –BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced the Top 25 Registered Investment Advisors in New York City, focused on individual money management, with the greatest amount of assets under management. This list is the first in a series that BrightScope will regularly release to highlight data contained within its Advisor Pages™, a breakthrough way for people to discover, research, and select a financial advisor.

"It was previously virtually impossible for the average investor to access all of the information Advisor Pages displays with just a few mouse clicks," said Mike Alfred, the CEO of BrightScope. "As a leading financial data firm already well-established in the retirement industry, in the last few months we have made significant advancement by increasing the level of transparency into the larger wealth management marketplace, furthering our mission to help protect and advance the financial futures of America’s workers." Download PDF

BrightScope and Target Date Analytics Release Groundbreaking Target Date Fund Study

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 18, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, together with Target Date Analytics, (www.ontargetindex.com), the leading independent provider of analysis, theory, and benchmarking of target date funds, today announced the release of Popping the Hood, IV. The newest study in the popular Popping the Hood series provides a detailed analysis of Target Date Funds (TDFs) and fund families, making it the most comprehensive source of information available in the TDF marketplace.

"This study is absolutely critical for asset managers who are looking to distribute their funds as well as plan sponsors who need to make better decisions on which funds to include on their menus," said Brooks Herman, Head of Research for BrightScope. "Currently, there is no other research report in the market that offers such an in-depth perspective on Target Date Funds and fund families." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights the Top 15 Mid-Cap Mutual Funds in the Defined Contribution Marketplace

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 4, 2011)-Money Managers Now Have Greater Visibility into the Distribution of Mid-Cap Funds Held Within America's 401k Plans

"Mid-cap funds often receive little attention from plan sponsors when reviewing their retirement plan's investment menu with consultants and advisors," said Mike Alfred, co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "Despite a general perception that mid-cap funds may have peaked in terms of distribution in retirement plans, opportunistic investment managers are still pursuing new mandates in this asset class as vigorously as ever." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights the Top 10 International Stock Funds in the Defined Contribution Marketplace

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 7, 2011) - Money Managers Now Have Greater Visibility into the Distribution of International Stock Funds within America’s 401k Plans

"It is universally understood that maintaining an appropriate amount of international stock exposure is a critical part of managing a well-diversified portfolio," said Mike Alfred, co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "Not surprisingly, international stock funds have become ubiquitous in 401k plans and today serve as one of the largest, fastest growing, and most lucrative pools of assets that an opportunistic asset manager can target from a sales perspective." Download PDF

Target-Date Funds to Face Unexpected Hurdles

Boston, MA, August 9, 2011 –New analysis of 401(k) recordkeeper platform data has uncovered that retirement plan sponsors are selecting only specific parts of a target-date fund series, even though asset managers market the entire target-date fund series. This is according to a new report, Trends in Target-Date Portfolios on Recordkeeper Platforms, released today by Financial Research Corporation (FRC). This in-depth report was made possible through a partnership between FRC and BrightScope, the leading provider of retirement plan ratings.

"Target date funds have experienced explosive growth in recent years and continue to be a notable bright spot for the mutual fund industry," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Asset managers who wish to move the needle in this space must have a holistic view in to the marketplace dynamics so they can capitalize on the significant distribution opportunities." Download PDF

BrightScope Highlights the Top 12 Small-Cap Funds Within America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 3, 2011)- Money Managers Now Have Greater Insight into the Best Small-Cap Funds

"Small-cap funds have a reputation of being volatile, but if utilized correctly, they are a critical part of a well-diversified investment portfolio," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "More than 16% of 401k plans we track still do not offer a small cap fund on the core menu. This is a huge opportunity for smart asset managers to proactively grow their 401k business." Download PDF

ERISA Law Firm Creates a Recommendation Report Powered by BrightScope

SAN DIEGO, CA (July 20, 2011) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent financial information and investment research, today announced a strategic partnership with The Rosenbaum Law Firm P.C. (www.therosenbaumlawfirm.com), whose firm is a leading expert on retirement plan costs, design issues, and liability concerns. The joint effort incorporates benchmarking information combined with specific recommendations and suggested improvements for company retirement plans. Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 20 Exchange-Traded Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 14, 2011) –Analytics from BrightScope Give Investment Managers Unparalleled Insight into Fund Allocation

"ETFs are off to a slow start in terms of their distribution in 401k plans but we expect their prevalence to grow dramatically in the future as plan sponsors begin to understand the benefits of including them on plan menus," said Mike Alfred, co-founder and CEO of BrightScope. "The risks of ETFs have been wildly exaggerated. In many ways, ETFs are actually less risky than other instruments if the focus is on long-term returns." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 10 Treasury Inflation Protected Securities Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

San Diego, Calif. (June 1, 2011) – "TIPS are attractive in today's economic environment because they offer a buffer against inflation and allow investors to preserve purchasing power while earning a small real rate of return," said Ryan Alfred, President and co-founder of BrightScope. "Being able to access detailed information and analytics on which funds and managers have the best distribution of TIPS funds gives asset managers a competitive advantage and allows them to make more informed decisions on behalf of their clients." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 10 Commodities Funds Held in America's 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 17, 2011)- Investment Managers Can Get Unprecedented Visibility into Funds Through BrightScope

"Historically, investment professionals in the 401k industry have not been able to efficiently access comprehensive data on which funds and managers have the best distribution," said Mike Alfred, the CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "The recent volatility in the commodities market means there is significant money in motion and plenty of opportunity in this asset class. Without access to the best information and analytics, many asset managers will fail to identify these opportunities and struggle to keep up in the increasingly competitive defined contribution marketplace." Download PDF

Frazier & Deeter, FD Alliance, BrightScope and SignatureFD Conducts National Webinar on New Trends in Employee Benefit Plan Ratings

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) May 17, 2011 -- In a joint announcement today, Frazier & Deeter, certified public accountants and advisors, along with the FD Alliance and SignatureFD, conducted a national webinar on the impact of new independent ratings on employer's sponsoring Employee Benefit Plans by partnering with independent rating authority, BrightScope.

"As one of the nation's leading CPA firms, we work with hundreds of employers that are just beginning to understand that their employees and other constituents now have free access to independent ratings and rankings on the performance of their employee benefit plans," said Seth McDaniel, Managing Partner of Frazier & Deeter. "These new ratings will begin to compel plan sponsors and employers to look for ways to improve their plan performance. It is important that we help our clients get out in front of these trends."

"BrightScope is considered the leading provider of retirement plan ratings," said Chris Etheridge, Employee Benefit Plan Practice Leader of Frazier & Deeter. "With BrightScope's services any plan participant can easily access the ratings and rankings of their company's retirement plan. Our clients are seeking real and practical ways to improve their plan’s performance…beyond simply checking the boxes. Our employee benefit plan audit and advisory practice is designed to help address plan performance issues, as well as the required compliance issues." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases Second Annual List of the Top Atlanta Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 3, 2011)BrightScope CEO to Speak and Highlight List at Second Annual National Retirement Partners Breakfast with Benefits at Atlanta’s Ritz Carlton Buckhead

"Not only do all of the companies on Atlanta's Top 25 List have above average ratings, but the depth of the companies included is impressive," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Atlanta should be very proud of the companies on this list because this shows the high level of commitment and value companies in the region place on ensuring a successful and dignified retirement for their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope's New Advisor Pages Give People an Unbiased Way to Discover, Research and Select the Right Financial Advisor

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 26, 2011)The Company Known for BringingTransparency to Retirement Expands to Financial Management
"Never before has it been possible to learn so much about a single advisor," said BrightScope CEO, Mike Alfred. "Firm websites and LinkedIn pages don't tell you the things you need to know to make an informed decision, and the amount of time it would take the average person to obtain the information, involving an immense amount of various public records and sources, is endless." Download PDF

BrightScope Rating Expands to Include 403b Plans for the Education, Non-Profit and Hospital Sectors; Announces the Top 25 403b Plans Greater Than $100M

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 22, 2011)BrightScope Now Evaluates 403b Plan Performance to Inform Plan Sponsors and Participants and Empower Positive Change

"The addition of 403b plan ratings is another step forward on BrightScope's mission to increase the retirement security of America's workforce by bringing transparency and efficiency to the retirement plan market." said BrightScope CEO, Mike Alfred. "The highly rated 403b plans that appear on the inaugural list represent some of the best plans in the country – as measured in terms of size, number of participants and employee demographics – and should serve as an example of excellence that all plan sponsors should strive for on behalf of participants." Download PDF

BrightScope and John Scott to Host 2011 Phoenix 401k Evaluation Summit

Phoenix, AZ (March 7, 2011) The Phoenix 401(k) Evaluation Summit will feature thought leaders and executives from BrightScope's prestigious Top 401k Plans from Phoenix-based companies including two of the Top 5 highest rated companies in the large plan category and one of the Top 15 in the mid-size plan category. Panelists will share success stories and provide additional implementation ready strategies to help sponsors maximize retirement plan success.

"We're pleased to highlight the companies with the best 401k plans in the Phoenix area, and we are looking forward to hearing directly from these leaders during the upcoming seminar," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Attendees will learn how top plan sponsors design and run their plans, and what they can do to improve their own plan's BrightScope Rating." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces The Top 25 Law Firms With The Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (February 22, 2010)Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP and Stoock & Stroock & Lavan LLP Rank the Highest

"The average 401k participant in the legal industry has an account balance that is significantly higher than the median, which means that they have more to lose when a plan is not efficiently managed," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co?founder of BrightScope. "BrightScope makes it simple to identify weaknesses within plans so participants and sponsors can initiate small adjustments to plan structure that have positive long-term effects on the plan's value." Download PDF

McDonald's Engages BrightScope To Help Bolster Its 401k Plan

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 11, 2011) BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading independent provider of retirement plan ratings, today announced that McDonald's Corporation has selected BrightScope to evaluate its 401k plan information in order to determine benefit adequacy and plan performance across its different employee classes. By structuring a unique peer group for each employee class, BrightScope is able to show McDonald's exactly how its plan is performing compared to peers with similar demographics.

"BrightScope's thorough research of McDonald's 401k plan indicates that it's performing well, and helped us prioritize what areas of the plan we need to focus on for improvement," said Rich Floersch, McDonald’s Global Chief Human Resources Officer. "Our employees are extremely important to us and that’s why we are focused on making our 401k plan the gold standard. BrightScope's research and analysis are invaluable to ensure that we continue to live up to that standard." Download PDF

BrightScope Welcomes Former Fidelity Investments Executive Scott David as Advisor

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 5, 2011) BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading independent provider of retirement plan ratings, today announced that Scott David, a recognized leader in the financial industry, has joined its Advisory Board and will serve in an ongoing capacity as an Advisor to the company and its executives. The decision verifies BrightScope's ability to bring unprecedented transparency to the retirement planning industry and beyond.

"Scott David's extraordinarily successful career has made him one of the most respected names in financial services today," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co?founder of BrightScope. "His addition to BrightScope's Advisory Board will open new doors and help the company further extend its leadership position within the industry. In addition, he shares our vision for BrightScope's future as the next great financial data business and has the knowledge and connections to help us execute against that vision." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces Its Second Annual Year-End Top 30 401k Plans List

SAN DIEGO, CA (December 14, 2010) Southwest Airlines Co. Amgen Inc., Credit Suisse Securities USA LLC, Bayer Corporation, BP Corporation North America Inc., Avaya, Inc., UBS AG, IBM and Federal Express Corporation Improve Rank Since 2009

"The average BrightScope Rating on 2010's Top 30 401k Plans List has increased by nearly two points over last year's list as equity markets recover and increasingly sophisticated plan sponsors gain access to better tools and information with which to make more targeted improvements to their plans," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co?founder of BrightScope. "These Top 30 Plans set a standard of excellence that all companies can follow to secure the financial future of their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 10 Virginia Beach Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 17, 2010) Professional Service Firms Top the Region's List

"As we analyze 401k plans throughout the country, we have seen plans of all sizes with very strong components, resulting in high BrightScope ratings and an improved chance at a successful financial future for participants," said Mike Alfred, CEO of BrightScope. "Our mission is to empower plan sponsors and participants with the data and information they need so they can take the necessary steps to improve their 401k plans." Download PDF

BrightScope Recognizes the Top 10 Buffalo Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 9, 2010) Diversity of the List Shows Promise for the Region’s Economic Future

"The industries in Buffalo's Top 10 List include a wide range of occupations, from professional services to plant workers, proving that it is possible for most companies to provide employees with an above average 401k plan," said Mike Alfred, CEO of BrightScope. "BrightScope makes it simple to identify weaknesses within plans so participants and sponsors can initiate small adjustments to their plan’s structure that will have a long-term effect on its value."
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BrightScope Announces the Top 10 Charlotte Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (November 3, 2010) Nucor Corporation, LORD Corporation and Cogentix Energy Top the Region's List

"Charlotte is home to nationally recognized manufacturers and consultants, many of which are included in the region's Top 10 List," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "These companies stand out not only because they supply the country with quality products and services, but also because they demonstrate that they value their employees by providing the building blocks for a successful retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 10 Hartford Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 27, 2010) The Phoenix Companies, Inc., The United Illuminating Company and General Electric Company, Top the Region’s List

"The Hartford Top 10 List includes a national utility company and much smaller regional corporations, proving that companies of all sizes can take steps to provide employees with above average 401k plans," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "By taking into account the components that make up their 401k plans, these companies are taking the necessary steps to provide their employees with tools that will improve their chances at a successful financial future." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases the Top 10 Indianapolis Area-Based Companies With the Best 401K Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 19, 2010) ATA Airline, Inc. and Local Law Firms Top the Region's List

"A majority of Americans rely on their 401k plan for retirement, yet they do not have a clear idea of how their plan performs. BrightScope provides an understandable way for plan participants to see how the components of their plan are working for them," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "The high ratings on Indianapolis' Top 10 List are proof that many of the region’s companies are taking the necessary steps toward providing a successful financial future for their employees."
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BrightScope Launches New 401k Data Product for Leading Investment Managers

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 12, 2010) BrightScope Beaconâ„¢ Allows for Unprecedented Visibility in to Fund Distribution within 401k plans

"Beacon brings higher quality data and analytics to the competitive 401k fund distribution market," said Ryan Alfred, Co-Founder, President, and Head of Product at BrightScope. "Previously investment managers have operated with an incomplete view of their distribution, limiting them to simple, undifferentiated distribution strategies. Beacon helps managers use plan level market intelligence to drive strategic firm level decision-making and create meaningful, measurable opportunities for their sales force." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces The Top 10 Pittsburgh Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 5, 2010) Bayer Corporation, PPG Industries, Alcoa Inc. and CONSOL Energy Inc. Have Plans with the Most Participants

"Retirement plans are complex. The majority of Americans who rely on the 401k for retirement savings do not have a clear idea of how their plan is performing," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We give plan sponsors and participants insight into the factors that will directly affect their return on investment, such as company generosity, investment menu quality and fees paid." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases List of the Top 10 Funds Held in America's 401K Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 4, 2010) Investment Managers Will Soon Have Unprecedented Visibility into Funds within 401k Plans

"For years, the 401k industry has operated without comprehensive data on which funds and managers have the best distribution," said Mike Alfred, the CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "As the defined contribution marketplace becomes increasingly competitive, only firms operating with the benefit of the very best data will succeed." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals the Top 10 Baltimore Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 28, 2010) Lockheed Martin Corporation Comes in at No. 3 Revealing That the $16 Billion in Net Assets the Plan Contains are Well Managed

"By interpreting the common and often overlooked components that make up 401k plans, such as company generosity, investment menu quality and fees paid, BrightScope allows participants to better understand the factors that drive a successful retirement," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "All of the plans on Baltimore's Top 10 List have an above average rating – something we have rarely seen in our analysis of plans across the country – and that bodes well for the region's economic future." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces the Top 10 Orlando Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 22, 2010) AirTran Airways, Tupperware and the American Automobile Association Make the Region’s Top 10 List

"We are excited to announce Orlando's Top 10 List and hope that these plan sponsors feel empowered to continue providing the information necessary to help employees achieve a successful retirement," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We are seeing the median age of our population increase as baby boomers hit retirement, and ensuring our citizens are prepared for their financial future will be a crucial element in the well-being of Orlando's economy." Download PDF

Brightscope Uncovers the Top 10 St. Louis Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 14, 2010) The Diversity of Companies Confirms that Stability of a 401k Plan can be Accessible to Employees in Every Industry

"St. Louis' Top 10 List showcases a variety of industries, which is an affirmation that any type of business can provide a high-quality 401k plan to its employees," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "By taking relatively simple steps, companies can dramatically improve the components that make up their plan and increase their employees' chance of achieving a successful financial future." Download PDF

BrightScope Names the Top 10 Cleveland Area-Based Companies With the Best 401K Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (September 8, 2010) Medical, Law and Engineering Firms Top the Region’s List

"All of the companies on Cleveland's Top 10 List have a higher than average rating, and that isn't something that we have seen as we evaluate regions across the country," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "This shows that there are a high number of employers in the Cleveland area that value the security of their employee's retirement and will undoubtedly benefit the region's economy in the long-run." Download PDF

BrightScope Features the Top 10 Miami Area-Based Companies With the Best 401k Plans

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 31, 2010) Law Firm, Insurance Company and Top-Tier Technology Company Lead the Region's List

"Miami is home to many great companies and we are excited to have them as part of our top 10 list," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "The companies on the Miami list are taking the steps needed to provide a strong financial future for their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Releases The Top 10 Sacramento Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Companies Ranging from Medical Groups to Newspaper Services are Apart of the Region's List

"The BrightScope Rating shows companies what they are doing right and how they can improve, which is something that's not offered anywhere else," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "The companies on the Sacramento list are taking the steps needed to deliver a strong 401k plan to their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Uncovers The Top 10 Tampa Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plan

The Diversity of Businesses Proves that Providing a Well-Balanced 401k Plan for Employees is Possible in Any Industry

"Variations in 401k plans such as the company generosity, menu quality and the amount paid in fees, have a significant impact on a plan's success over the course of a participant's career," said Mike Alfred, CEO of BrightScope. "The Tampa area companies on the Top 10 list have well managed plans, which in the long-run will translate into an earlier, more successful retirement for enrolled employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Names The Top 10 Detroit Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Transportation Companies in the Region Dominate the List, Including: General Motors Corporation, Lear Corporation and Ford Motor Company

"Over the past few years, workers across the country have been hit hard by the financial crisis and employer mismanagement of 401k plans," said Mike Alfred, CEO of BrightScope. "By taking time to fully understand the components of their 401k plan, the Detroit-area companies on the Top 10 List prove that they value the financial well-being of the people that work so hard to make their businesses successful." Download PDF

BrightScope Identifies The Top 10 Portland Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Nike, Inc., PacifiCorp, Tektronix, Inc. and Portland General Electric Are Included in The List

"By analyzing the structure of 401k plans, BrightScope is able to help sponsors and employees more easily comprehend their plan's strengths and opportunities for improvement," said Mike Alfred, CEO of BrightScope. "Because plan ranking directly correlates to its participants' chance of achieving a successful retirement, the fact that these Portland area companies rank highly shows that they are doing their part to ensure their employees' financial future." Download PDF

BrightScope Names The Top 10 Minneapolis Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

The Mosaic Company, Fair Isaac Corporation, Imation Corp. and St. Jude Medical Inc. Provide Employees with Highest Rated Plans and the Best Path to Successful Retirement

"The diversity of the companies in the Minneapolis area validates the fact that companies in all industries have the ability to provide employees with the foundation for a successful retirement," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Our ultimate goal is to provide every plan sponsor and participant a window into the structure of their 401k plan, and empower those with inadequate plans to push for change." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces The Top 10 Denver Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Notable Companies Include Time Warner Telecom Holdings, Inc., The Western Union Company and CH2M HILL Companies, Ltd.

"Denver is home to many great companies and we're pleased to recognize the companies that made our Top 10 List," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We hope that those companies that are looking to improve their 401k structure will emulate the companies we've highlighted to date." Download PDF

CalSTRS Selects the BrightScope On Target Indexes to Strengthen Its Target Date Funds

CalSTRS will use the indexes to benchmark target date fund performance and risk

SAN DIEGO, CA, July 14, 2010 –– BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading independent provider of retirement plan ratings, today announced that the California State Teachers' Retirement System (CalSTRS) has chosen the BrightScope On Target Index to benchmark its target date portfolios, and analyze the CalSTRS Pension2® Easy Choice Portfolios... Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals The Top 10 Dallas Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

The Travel Industry Dominates the List with Southwest Airlines Co., American Airlines, Inc., and Sabre Inc.

"The Dallas based companies included in the region's Top 10 List exemplify what companies should strive for to ensure their employees have a prosperous retirement," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "If employers took into account the importance of all the individual components that make up the 401k plan the financial future of America’s workforce would be exponentially more secure." Download PDF

BrightScope Discloses The Top 10 Seattle Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Law Firms Davis Wright Tremaine, LLP and Perkins Coie, LLP Top the Chart While Alaska Airlines, Inc. and Microsoft Corporation Rate Highly

"Similar to BrightScope's goal of providing value and insight into America's workplace, these Seattle companies solidify their dedication and commitment to their employees by offering some of the best 401k plans in the area," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We are pleased to recognize such companies for the positive impact they are making on the financial futures of their employees." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals The Top 10 Philadelphia Area-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Companies Include: Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, Cephalon, Inc., and The Vanguard Group

"The diversity in Philadelphia's Top 10 List proves that great 401k plans can be implemented in any type of business," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Every company should be focused on the components that make up its plan in order to maximize their employee's chance of a successful retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Recognizes The Top 10 Phoenix Area-Based Companies With The Highest Rated 401k Plans

US Airways, Inc., Avnet, Inc., RSC Equipment Rental, Inc. and Banner Health are Just Some of the Companies Topping the List

"We continue to announce the Top 10 companies in various markets because we are committed to help employers and employees from large to small businesses establish and maintain a healthy retirement plan," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Whether you are 55 or 25 it's never too late to focus on the big picture of retirement." Download PDF

BrightScope Names The Top 10 San Diego Area-Based Companies With The Highest Rated 401k Plans

Medical, Energy and Technology Companies in the Region Dominate the List, Including: Scripps Clinic Medial Group, Sempra Energy and Qualcomm Incorporated

"As a native of San Diego, I would like to extend my gratitude to companies on BrightScope's Top 10 List for offering the very best benefits to their local employees," said Mike Alfred, the CEO of BrightScope. "There is room for tremendous growth in the county as we currently have more than $50 million of available salaried jobs in the software industry alone. There is a great need of talented software developers and engineers such as the folks behind BrightScope, which has established itself as the industry standard 401k quality rating and a leader in San Diego's growing analytics cluster." Download PDF

BrightScope Identifies The Top 10 Boston Area-Based Companies With The Highest Rated 401k Plans

Companies Include: Wellington Management Company, Waters Corporation and Boston Consulting Group

"With a strong economy, and a diverse workforce, Boston is home to successful companies like the ones listed on our Top 10 list," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "In this new era of 401k transparency, BrightScope is providing great companies with the data and analytics they need to operate the very best benefits plans." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals The Top 10 Bay Area-Based Companies With The Highest Rated 401k Plans

Chevron Takes the No.1 Spot While Leaders Like Google, Genentech, Charles Schwab and Sun Microsystems Round Out the List

"Retirement plans are complicated. The majority of Americans who rely on the 401k for retirement savings have very little idea of how their plan is performing," said Eddie Alfred, Vice President, Research and Data, of BrightScope. "But the BrightScope Rating has come to the rescue, serving as the industry standard for 401k quality and as a vital resource for both participants and decision-makers." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals The Top 10 Houston-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Notable Companies Include: Exxon Mobil Corporation, Reliant Energy, Inc., Huntsman International LLC and Continental Airlines, Inc

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 25, 2010) – BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading independent provider of retirement plan ratings, today announced the Top 10 Houston-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. BrightScope obtains an increasing amount of its data directly from plan sponsors and record keepers, and augments these primary sources with data from publicly available sources such as the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission. By analyzing and interpreting this data, BrightScope provides unprecedented transparency into the 401k industry... Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals The Top 10 Washington, D.C.-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Notable Companies Include: Lockheed Martin Corporation, Federal Home Mortgage Corporation and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.

"It's important for us to highlight and praise those companies that are going above and beyond when it comes to their 401k plan," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "We're pleased to recognize these well-known D.C.-based companies and the notable mentions like AARP and Capital One." Download PDF

BrightScope Reveals The Top 10 Atlanta-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

BrightScope and Michael Kane to Host 401k Focused Seminar: Attributes of Top Rated 401K Plans

"We're pleased to announce the Top 10 companies with the best 401k plans in the Atlanta area, and we are looking forward to detailing this list and the BrightScope Rating during the upcoming seminar," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Attendees will learn how top plan sponsors design and run their plans, and what they can do to improve their own plan's BrightScope Rating." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces The Top 10 Chicago-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

United Airlines Secures No.1 Spot While The Boeing Company Rounds Out the List at No. 10

"It is encouraging to see that companies, regardless of the number of participants, are actively evaluating their plans to make certain that they are effectively helping employees reach their retirement objectives," said Mike Alfred, CEO and co-founder of BrightScope. "Many of the companies that use our data have made small improvements to their plans that will lead to huge financial gains over time." Download PDF

BrightScope Announces The Top 10 Los Angeles-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Los Angeles is the Second City Featured in BrightScope’s Top 10 Series

SAN DIEGO, CA, April 27, 2010 –– BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading independent provider of retirement plan ratings, today announced the Top 10 Los Angeles-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. BrightScope obtains an increasing amount of its data directly from plan sponsors and record keepers, and augments these primary sources with data from publicly available sources such as the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission. By analyzing and interpreting this data, BrightScope provides unprecedented transparency into the 401k industry. Download PDF

BrightScope Identifies Top 10 New York-Based Companies With The Best 401k Plans

Company to Issue Additional Top 10 401k Ratings Lists Nationwide

SAN DIEGO, CA, April 21, 2010 –– BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), the leading independent provider of retirement plan ratings, today announced the Top 10 New York-based companies with the highest ranked 401k plans containing more than $100 million in assets. BrightScope obtains an increasing amount of its data directly from plan sponsors and record keepers, and augments these primary sources with data from publicly available sources such as the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission. By analyzing and interpreting this data, BrightScope provides unprecedented transparency into the 401k industry... Download PDF

BrightScope Partners With Acceleration Retirement To Create Most Powerful Prospecting Solution Ever For Retirement Plan Advisors

Plan Advisors Will Now Have Unprecedented Capability to Broaden Customer Base.

San Diego, CA (March 9, 2010) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, today announced a strategic partnership with Acceleration Retirement (www.accelerationretirement.com), a respected provider of practice management, marketing, and lead generation services for advisors. The joint effort creates the most complete end-to-end prospecting and client acquisition solution for retirement plan advisors ever assembled...
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Consumers Get First-Ever Look at 401k Fees With Personal 401k Fee Report

BrightScope Shows Millions of Americans with 401k Plans Exactly How Much They Are Paying in Retirement Fees. For Free.

San Diego CA (January 19, 2010) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, today launched its Personal 401k Fee Report. For the first time ever, 401k plan participants can easily figure out exactly how much they are paying in fees, with more than 30,000 rated plans, in as little as two minutes... Download PDF

BrightScope Releases The 2009 Top 30 401k Plans List

Lockheed Martin, Southwest Airlines, IBM, FedEx, Bayer, and Chevron are Among the Top 401k Plans in BrightScope's First Year-End Ratings List

San Diego CA (December 8, 2009) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a leading provider of independent retirement plan ratings and investment research, is proud to announce its first BrightScope Year-End Top 30 Ratings List covering 401k plans with more than $1B in assets. BrightScope obtains an increasing amount of its data directly from plan sponsors and recordkeepers, and augments these primary sources with data from publicly available sources such as the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission. By analyzing and interpreting this data, BrightScope provides unprecedented transparency into the 401k industry...

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401k Ratings Firm BrightScope Partners with Target Date Analytics to Unveil the BrightScope On Target Index

Partnership Enables BrightScope to Establish a National Standard Target Date Benchmark for the 401k Industry - to Help Millions of Americans Retire on Time

San Diego CA (November 2, 2009) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), today announced a strategic partnership with Target Date Analytics LLC (www.ontargetindex.com), a consulting and research firm that designs target date fund indexes. Together they announce the BrightScope On Target Index, designed to assist 401k plan sponsors, advisors and participants in measuring the performance and risk attributes of their target date funds... Download PDF

BrightScope Welcomes Leading 401k Executive Michael Falcon as Advisor

Leading 401k ratings and analytics firm taps Merrill Lynch Retirement Group veteran to improve country's retirement

New York, NY - FINOVATE, September 29, 2009 - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a 401k ratings and analytics firm, today announced that Michael Falcon, a recognized leader in the retirement industry, has joined its Advisory Board and will serve in an ongoing capacity as an Advisor to the company and its executives. The decision cements BrightScope's role as a game-changer and leader in the retirement planning industry...

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BrightScope Launches Advisor Central to Provide 401k Plan Advisors and Consultants Tools to Identify and Service Plans

New Product Gives Advisors All They Need to Successfully Get Plan Participants to Retirement

New York, NY - FINOVATE, September 29, 2009 - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a 401k ratings and analytics firm, today announced the launch of Advisor Central 1.0, adding an advisor and consultant optimized interface to its unique suite of 401k-based products. Brightscope now enables advisors and consultants to search by critical plan design and investment criteria among over 12,000 data rich plan evaluations to find new plan sponsor clients in need of their services and to provide the best possible advice to those clients...

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401k Ratings Firm BrightScope Secures $2 Million in Series B Funding

Investment Round Led by Jim Caccavo to Bring Greater Transparency to the 401k Industry

San Diego CA (Sept 02, 2009) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a 401k ratings and analytics firm, today announced that the company has raised $2 million in Series B funding, led by an angel investment from Jim Caccavo of Steelpoint Capital Partners. He is joined in the investment by a group of experienced operating executives as well as principals of several hedge funds and private equity firms. BrightScope will use the capital to build out its unparalleled database of 401k plan data and analytics, and further develop its robust suite of products and services. The company and its offerings enhance transparency of 401k plan performance and fees for plan sponsors, advisors and participants... Download PDF

BrightScope Launches 401k Plan Management Dashboard to Shed Light Into the Future of American Retirement

Groundbreaking Web Application for Plan Sponsors and Their Advisors Aims to Improve 401k Performance for Small to Large Companies

San Diego, CA (July 29, 2009) - BrightScope (www.brightscope.com), a 401k ratings and analytics firm, today announced the launch of its Plan Management Dashboard, a new groundbreaking Web application for 401k decision makers at companies of every size, from small businesses to the Fortune 100. The Plan Management Dashboard benchmarks a plan's BrightScope Rating(TM) and all six component Ratings against a group of similar companies, enables viewing and verification of the underlying data and calculations, and provides for direct plan to plan comparisons - an industry first in an otherwise opaque 401k marketplace. The Plan Management Dashboard uses real data, from real plans - not survey data or other less precise methods... Download PDF

BrightScope Flooded with 401k Data Uploads from Plan Sponsors

San Diego, CA (April 2, 2009) - BrightScope, an online 401k ratings company, announced today that its public disclosure website (www.brightscope.com) has been flooded with 401k data uploads from plan sponsors and participants. In celebration of Employee Benefits Day, BrightScope encourages all employers and employees to upload documents and data about their plan so that the plan can be rated. Uploading information is free, as is the resulting 'score' BrightScope issues following its analysis of data received... Download PDF

BrightScope Launches First Online 401k Rating System and 401k Ratings Disclosure Website

San Diego, CA (January 29, 2009) - BrightScope, Inc. (www.brightscope.com), an independent data analytics firm that provides 401k ratings and financial intelligence to plan sponsors and participants in all 50 states, today announced the launch of their 401k ratings disclosure website featuring the BrightScope RatingTM, the nation's first online 401k rating system. The new BrightScope Rating debuted today at the 2009 Los Angeles Benefits Conference, co-sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA) and the National Institute of Pension Administrators (NIPA)... Download PDF
 
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