Guide Clients to Make Smarter, Research-Based NQDC Plan Decisions

Driving Better Financial Outcomes for Key Employees: 2026 Newport/PLANSPONSOR NQDC Plan Trends Survey features nonqualified deferred compensation (NQDC) benchmarking data, plus in-depth analysis of the issues that matter most to plan sponsors—and the implications for advisors supporting them.

The report examines how NQDC plans can contribute to participants’ longer-term financial wellness and where you as an advisor can guide client strategy, strengthen plan design, and deliver more competitive executive benefits solutions.

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Guide Clients to Make Smarter, Research-Based NQDC Plan Decisions
Key Points
  • Benchmark your clients’ plans or participation against NQDC trends with extensive data
  • Strengthen your advisory approach with expert perspective on NQDC plan design, participant education, and technology
  • Expand your knowledge of NQDC financing-strategy trends
  • Apply NQDC insights to deliver more strategic, value-added guidance to your clients
September 15, 2026
Tagged Engage Clients Plan design & capabilities Consulting Services Institutional Insurance Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Retirement Plans Insights

Whether you work with employers or high-net-worth individuals, having a window into what plan sponsors think about NQDC plans can help you provide your clients with more relevant, value-added advice.

NQDC benchmarking insights for advisors

Discover what’s top of mind for plan sponsor clients.

Turn NQDC insights into client strategy

Translate NQDC insights into actionable strategies that help clients improve plan design, participation, and executive benefits outcomes. Explore ideas from our NQDC experts to help you add value to your clients.

Key ideas
Use insights drawn from automated reports on provider technology platforms to identify participant behavior gaps and proactively advise clients
Provide clients with targeted education on tax implications (lump sum vs. installments, tax diversification), in partnership with tax professionals, providers, or other partners
Offer plan-design enhancement suggestions that leverage §409A provisions and improve flexibility, tax diversification, and perceived value

Research powered by two industry leaders

Newport, a leading provider of nonqualified deferred compensation solutions, and PLANSPONSOR teamed up for the fourth time to field the 2026 Newport/PLANSPONSOR NQDC Plan Trends Survey. More than 200 plan sponsors shared their perspective on 75+ questions. And because Newport and PLANSPONSOR are committed to supporting knowledge and understanding that helps plan sponsors, advisors, and participants, this research is available to you at no cost.  

Hear from Newport and PLANSPONSOR

Learn from the experts about the latest NQDC trends including:

  • Key research findings
  • Practical ideas
  • Real-world examples

Request the report

As plan sponsors look to attract and retain key employees, advisors have an opportunity to use NQDC insights to deliver more competitive and effective executive benefits strategies.

Complete the form to receive the report.