Qualified Plan News Q2 2026 Newsletter

Q2 Market & Retirement Plan Update

U.S. and international markets posted strong gains in the second quarter, with the S&P 500 rising 15.2% and international equities also moving higher. Small-cap stocks and technology were among the strongest performers, while emerging markets significantly outpaced developed international markets.

Meanwhile, the U.S. economy continued to expand, though inflation remains a concern. The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady during the quarter as expectations for potential 2026 rate cuts shifted.

For plan sponsors, employee benefits remain an important part of the picture. Health insurance and retirement savings plans continue to rank among the benefits employees value most when deciding whether to stay with an employer. A strong benefits package combined with a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and recognized can play an important role in attracting and retaining talent.

Is your retirement plan helping you compete for talent? A regular review can help identify opportunities to strengthen your plan, improve the employee experience and support your hiring and retention goals.

Read the full newsletter here!