Certified Plan Sponsor Professional (CPSP) Practice Exam

What is the role of investment advice fiduciaries according to the investment regulations?

1. They assume all fiduciary duties for the plan sponsor.

2. They relieve the plan sponsor of fiduciary duties regarding asset management.

3. They provide investment advice to plan participants without limitations.

4. They do not relieve the plan sponsor of its fiduciary duties concerning plan asset management.

The correct answer is: They do not relieve the plan sponsor of its fiduciary duties concerning plan asset management.

The role of investment advice fiduciaries, according to investment regulations, primarily emphasizes the ongoing responsibilities of the plan sponsor in regards to fiduciary duties concerning plan asset management. Although investment advice fiduciaries provide crucial expertise and guidance when it comes to investment decisions, their role does not absolve or relieve the plan sponsor from their overarching fiduciary responsibilities. The plan sponsor remains responsible for ensuring that the investment choices align with the best interests of the plan participants while adhering to fiduciary standards. This includes monitoring the advice provided and making informed decisions based on that guidance. Therefore, while investment advice fiduciaries play an important part in supporting plan sponsors, they do not take over the fiduciary duties or responsibilities that the plan sponsors inherently hold, thus making the correct understanding of their role vital in ensuring compliance and diligence in managing plan assets.