Some fundsters embrace 401(k)s, some steer clear of the channel. But all should have respect for it.

A Morningstar guest column written by Matthew Illian of Marotta Wealth Management gives you one good reason why.

Titled The Rise of Mutual Fund Power: The 401(k) helped ignite a holding that now dominates markets, the article gives a high level outline of the growth of funds thanks to 401(k) accounts, which were first approved by the IRS in 1981.

To whit, Illian nots that in 1945, 93.2 percent of all stocks were owned directly by investors. By 2013, that percentage had fallen to 40 percent.

When 401(k) plans hit the scene, retirement plans controlled by employers and institutional investors ruled the roost. As you all know, that dynamic continues to change.

Illian's column is as lean and taut as a mountain climber's kiss. If you want do a deeper dive into all of the complex drivers and ramifications of this evolution, you need to do your own research.

But nonetheless, it serves as a reminder of how very important this channel is to the mutual fund industry, and why so many firms are now promoting executives with K-experience to senior management roles and, increasingly, to the C-Suite. 

Edited by: Tommy Fernandez


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