TIAA-CREF Creates RIA Network

TIAA-CREF announced a new partnership with the Center for Due Diligence (CFDD) and PlanTools to help plan sponsors and participants select an independent advisor to meet their retirement planning needs.

TIAA-CREF collaborated with the CFDD and PlanTools to create a due diligence standard to qualify advisors to participate in the TIAA-CREF Advisor Network.

By paying an annual fee to the CFDD, advisors will benefit from an increased level of support from TIAA-CREF, the asset management firm said. Benefits include personalized marketing materials, special training sessions and participation in a new referral program.

Participants will also have access to a pre-screened network of qualified investment advisors who provide participant level advice at an investment advisory fiduciary standard of care, according to TIAA-CREF.

"Our experience shows that individuals benefit from retirement planning advice and this Network offers a nice complement to the advice services we offer through our retirement plans," said Rob Rickey, head of advisor services, TIAA-CREF.

"At the same time, increased focus on plan sponsor's fiduciary responsibilities has led to greater demand for information and support. Our own experience with both individual and institutional clients has confirmed the growing need to support independent advisors." Melanie Rodier has worked as a print and broadcast journalist for over 10 years, covering business and finance, general news, and film trade news. Prior to joining Wall Street & Technology in April 2007, Melanie lived in Paris, where she worked for the International Herald ... View Full Bio