The Carolina Panthers surprised a lot of people by making it to the Super Bowl. And at least one hometown fan is celebrating in a unique way.
Charlotte, N.C.-based investment education provider ICC Plan Solutions is offering a 14% discount on 401(k) participant education programs to any plan sponsor who contacts them before Sunday's game.
"The discount represents the number of victories the Panthers have this season … so far, " said Doug Hall, president of ICC. The firm announced the offer Jan. 19, the day after the Panthers beat the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC championship game. When interviewed later that day, Mr. Hall said that so far he had gotten three phone calls from plan sponsors seeking to take advantage of the discount.
"This is just a unique way to express our pride toward the home team as well as make it even easier for participants to receive the investment education they truly deserve," said Mr. Hall. He said he might raise the discount to 15% — if the Panthers win the Super Bowl. But he wouldn't say how long he would keep the discount. "It depends on the response we get."
Mr. Hall said he was hoping to get tickets to the Super Bowl. "It depends on how many good friends I have," he said. The team is holding a lottery for season-ticket holders, one of which is Mr. Hall's father-in-law. Mr. Hall hoped that he would get a ticket if his father-in-law scores in the lottery.
ICC's target market is midsized plans with $2 million to $20 million in assets. Its fees generally range from $5 to $40 per participant. Mr. Hall said he expected to get a lot of calls before the Super Bowl from potential clients.
