What factor is NOT considered to increase compliance risk in Retirement Services?

In the context of compliance risk within Retirement Services, it is essential to recognize that the first three options—deficient account acceptance processes, lack of sound procedures for complex assets, and weak training programs for staff—directly relate to the internal operations and governance of the retirement services provided. These factors can impede adherence to regulatory standards, increase the potential for errors, and expose the organization to non-compliance penalties.

On the other hand, marketing of investment services for retirement plans does not inherently increase compliance risk. While marketing strategies certainly need to align with regulatory standards and ethical practices, the act of marketing itself is not a compliance vulnerability. Instead, it is considered a part of business development and communication strategy, focusing on promoting investment options that are compliant with relevant regulations. Compliance risks arise more prominently from internal processes rather than from activities related to marketing unless those marketing efforts misleadingly represent the investment services. Thus, the marketing of investment services does not add a layer of compliance risk in the way that the other factors do.