U.S. large-cap stocks declined last week, weighed down by sharp losses in technology and communication services, even as mid- and small-cap stocks posted gains. Value continued to outperform growth across all size segments, extending a lead that has defined markets...
American Trust Retirement
Markets Shake Off a Hawkish Fed
Equity markets advanced last week as easing tensions in the Middle East and falling oil prices offset a hawkish shift from the Federal Reserve. Small-cap stocks continued their recent momentum, outpacing large- and mid-caps. Growth stocks generally outperformed value...
Q1 2026 Plan Sponsor Insights
Preparing for the Season Ahead We’re pleased to share our latest newsletter, featuring important updates that may impact your retirement plan. This issue highlights upcoming regulatory requirements, key compliance considerations, operational enhancements and new tools...
Take Control of Your Plan Fees—On Your Terms
Managing your retirement plan shouldn't mean wrestling with administrative complexity. When it comes to quarterly recordkeeping and plan administration fees, flexibility isn't just a convenience—it's a key driver for making sure your plan runs exactly the way you need...
Important Update: Changes to Our Payroll Auto ACH Process
As of March 23, 2026, we have implemented updates to our Auto ACH processing for 401(k) plan contributions and loan repayments. These changes are designed to streamline your experience, improve funding timeliness and reduce complexity in how payroll contributions are...
My 401(k) Plan Failed the ADP/ACP Test — What Can I Do?
Receiving notice that your 401(k) plan has failed the Actual Deferral Percentage (ADP) or Actual Contribution Percentage (ACP) nondiscrimination tests can be unsettling. But you are not alone—this is one of the most common compliance issues plan sponsors face, and...
403(b) Cycle 2 Plan Restatement
The IRS requires all 403(b) retirement plans to be periodically updated to reflect changes in law and updated IRS guidance. This Cycle 2 restatement incorporates legislative and regulatory updates from the prior cycle, including provisions under the CARES Act, the...
SECURE Act Plan Amendment
The SECURE Act Plan Amendment will be added to plans during 2026. This plan amendment will have to be signed and completed no later than Dec. 31, 2026. As you may be aware, Congress enacted the SECURE Acts (1.0 & 2.0), both of which introduced a broad set of...
Getting the Most from Your Contribution File
Whether you use our Data Validation Center (DVC) or have payroll integration established for your plan, it is best practice to include all census data, including dates of birth, hire, termination and rehire, as well as email addresses, for all employees on your...
2016 vs Now: A Decade of Change to 401(k) Contribution Limits and Rules
By Kevin McDevittRetirement planning has evolved significantly over the past decade. While 2026 may not feel like it was long ago, major legislative updates and inflation adjustments have reshaped how 401(k) plans operate over the last decade. Understanding these...








