Insider purchases are often scrutinized by investors as they can offer insights into a company's long-term prospects. Insiders, such as company officers, directors, and significant shareholders, typically have access to valuable internal information and are subject to strict rules regarding their trades. 

Recently, notable insider activity has been observed in large-cap companies like FedEx, Casey's General Stores, and Centene. For instance, FedEx's CFO purchased 1,000 shares, a transaction totaling nearly $275,000, reflecting confidence despite the company's recent underperformance. 

Casey's General Stores saw a director buy 500 shares worth almost $200,000, showing strong support as the stock outperforms the S&P 500. Meanwhile, Centene saw several insiders invest roughly $1.6 million, although analysts remain cautious about its near-term outlook due to recent struggles.

Finsum: This could be a critical time to invest in large cap because macro factors could be pointing their direction. 

The defined contribution (DC) landscape is poised for transformative change, driven by advancements in retirement income solutions, small employer plans, and the integration of retirement and wealth management. 

Retirement income strategies have reached a pivotal moment, with a surge in participant demand, regulatory support, and innovative solutions like market-based, annuity, and hybrid options redefining how retirees access income. Meanwhile, small employer plans are experiencing rapid growth, fueled by state mandates, tax incentives, and scalable technology, democratizing retirement savings access for workers in smaller businesses. 

The convergence of retirement and wealth management is reshaping financial planning by integrating holistic strategies that address retirement, investment, and estate planning needs. Enhanced digital tools and scalable platforms are making these services more accessible, enabling firms to provide personalized, institutional-quality financial solutions.

 As the industry evolves, collaboration among stakeholders is critical to ensure these innovations translate into improved outcomes for U.S. workers. 

Finsum: By embracing these shifts, the DC ecosystem can help deliver financial security and peace of mind to a broader audience.

Dividend investors may find the S&P 500's current 1.2% yield underwhelming, but targeted ETFs offer an appealing solution. The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF delivers a 3.6% yield by focusing on high-quality companies with strong financials and a history of at least 10 consecutive years of dividend growth. 

Alternatively, the SPDR Portfolio S&P 500 High Dividend ETF emphasizes pure yield, offering a 4.3% yield by selecting the 80 highest-yielding stocks in the S&P 500. While the Schwab ETF prioritizes financial strength and diversification, the SPDR ETF leans into concentrated sectors like real estate and utilities, introducing some risk. 

Pairing the two ETFs can balance yield and quality, creating a diversified income stream for investors. 

Finsum: For those pursuing passive income, these ETFs provide accessible, tailored options that cater to varying investment goals and risk tolerances.

For investors aiming to balance steady income with potential capital appreciation, high-yield blue-chip stocks present an attractive option. These stocks represent well-established, financially robust companies with a history of consistent dividend payments, offering stability and income. 

Companies like Dow Inc., Verizon, and Pfizer stand out for their strong market positions, innovative strategies, and impressive dividend yields. Dow, with a yield of 7.22%, benefits from demand in high-growth sectors and sustainability initiatives. 

Verizon, offering a 7.00% yield, is expanding its 5G and fiber networks to drive future growth. Meanwhile, Pfizer, yielding 6.43%, leverages a robust product pipeline and strategic partnerships to maintain its industry leadership. 

Finsum: These firms highlight the appeal of high-yield blue-chip stocks for investors seeking reliable returns and long-term growth.

ETF issuers are continually innovating to meet the demand for buffer strategies, appealing to financial advisors and clients who prioritize downside protection, even if it limits potential gains. Often dubbed "boomer candy" for their popularity among retirees, buffered ETFs offer a sense of security akin to a safety net for nervous investors. 

The market for these ETFs has grown exponentially, with over 200 options managing nearly $46 billion in assets, a significant leap from just $200 million in 2018. These strategies typically shield against initial market declines, like the first 10%, while capping upside returns and are often tied to indices like the S&P 500. 

Variations now include funds offering complete downside protection or innovative approaches like Calamos Investments’ product, which protects bitcoin’s price, but caps gain at 10%. 

Finsum: Investors looking for stability particularly as they are aging could benefit from these strategies.