Competing Option

An investment option offered by a defined contribution plan in addition to the stable value investment option that has principal preservation as a primary objective (such as a money market option or short-term bond option) or other characteristics similar to stable value. Additionally, self-directed brokerage or mutual fund windows may be deemed competing if a competing option is made available through the window. The presence of competing options subjects stable value investment options, invested participants, and investment contract issuers to the risk of arbitrage, so the addition of such an option by the plan sponsor usually requires issuer consent and the use of an equity wash so as to restrict direct transfers from the stable value investment option to the competing option.