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Investments Institute

Wednesday, March 06 - Thursday, March 07, 2024

The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa,
Rancho Mirage, CA

8:15 AM - 9:30 AM

Economic Outlook

This session will provide a current economic update, including a historical perspective, a broad look at the economy, and a discussion of how geopolitical conflicts factor into the markets and shape the future for investors.

9:45 AM - 10:45 AM

Protecting Your Plan From Inflation

Inflation is still on the rise, and its impact is not only hurting individuals but also institutional investors. What exactly is inflation, and how has it changed over time? What factors are contributing to the current inflationary environment, and what will be the impact of the Fed’s interest rate hikes on investors?

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Exploring the Alternatives

Learn the benefits and drawbacks of alternative investments including private equity, credit and debt, and hedge funds. This session will address misconceptions like lock-up periods, fees and liquidity as well as arm trustees with the questions they need to be asking managers.

  • Daneen Boyce, GBA

    Benefits Analyst
    United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1776 Keystone State

  • Michael Hattrup

    Managing Director
    Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Using Fixed Income to De-Risk Decumulation

Can strategies used for special financial assistance (SFA) funds also be used for your plan? Explore fixed income techniques that can help ensure stable and secure returns for your portfolios.

2:15 PM - 3:15 PM

A Look at the Legal and Regulatory Issues of ESG

This panel discussion will address current trends and developments in ESG, including:

  • Legislative and regulatory activity
  • History and current guidance
  • Investment opportunities.

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Fireside Chat: Trends in Real Estate

This discussion will provide an honest assessment of today's real estate market, including:

  • Interest rates
  • Office values
  • Liquidity
  • Demographic migration
  • Areas of opportunity.

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM

Investing With Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword. The technology has entered almost every industry, including investments. This session will explore how AI has made its way into investing, how technology can help your fund’s performance, investment opportunities and the associated risks.

9:45 AM - 10:45 AM

Investing in America’s Future Infrastructure

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 has far-reaching implications not only for jobs but also for investment opportunities. Learn how your plan can capitalize on these projects through investing in the organizations tasked to build the infrastructure as well as the projects themselves.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

The Role of Demographics in Investing

The United States has had major demographic shifts, including population growth, geographic migrations, homeownership rates and changing labor markets. What does this all mean when looking to invest in America? This session will look at key issues investors need to be aware of and how to position your plan to capitalize on these opportunities.

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Advanced Asset Allocation

This session will explore:

  • Return assumptions and why you need to review them now
  • How assumptions are selected
  • Strategies in the current interest rate environment
  • Preparing for the future
  • Risk and return scenarios.

2:15 PM - 3:15 PM

Designing a Better Defined Contribution Plan

Over the last two decades, there has been a trend away from defined benefit (DB) plans and toward defined contribution plans (DC). Although DC plans may migrate some of the risks associated with DB plans, they come with their own challenges. This session will focus on the planning and design of DC plans and the importance of participant education.

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Open Forum

Have your questions answered by speakers from the last two days.