As 2025 comes to a close, one thing is clear. Our profession must adapt quickly to serve the needs of the families who depend on us. At FSI we see these changes as opportunities to grow and lead.If you haven’t already seen it, a recent study from The Foresight Companies highlights just how wide the gap is between what consumers say they understand and what professionals believe they are communicating. Only 37% of consumers say they feel educated about their options, compared with 76% of professionals who believe they provided that education. The same research showed similar gaps in areas such as preplanned arrangements, cremated remains options and technology. At the same time, nearly 78% of consumers now begin their research online, and many say transparent pricing is critical to building trust. Through your partnership with FSI, we share tools and insights that can help modernize your digital footprint, guide consumers along the purchase journey, and provide you with the confidence in knowing that your contracts are protected. Most importantly, we are committed to helping businesses of all sizes thrive in a landscape where differentiation and trust matter more than ever. Looking ahead to 2026, our goal is simple. We will continue to deliver solutions that make your work easier, strengthen your client relationships and create lasting value for your business. Together we can evolve in ways that not only keep pace with change but set the pace for what comes next. Sincerely, Jack Hirsch President, Funeral Services, Inc. |
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Clarifying Florida's Unclaimed Property Law and Preneed Trusts You may have seen recent correspondence suggesting that Florida's unclaimed property law applies to preneed trust funds. However, this interpretation is incorrect. Under current law, these funds are not subject to transfer to the state. The triggering event in the statute is not the death or age of the beneficiary; it is the licensee's intent to distribute funds. Because Florida preneed contracts do not permit or even contemplate distribution under the three events listed in the law, the rule does not apply in practice. In fact, sending funds to the state under these circumstances would violate the terms of the preneed contracts. Trustees and licensees have long agreed the law is ineffective, and previous actions in this area were the result of a negotiated settlement with the state, not compliance with the statute. For reference, the notice procedures outlined in Florida law confirm that this process does not create a requirement to remit trust assets to the state. If you have any questions, please contact Wendy Russell Wiener at wendy.wiener@wrwlegal.com. |
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Q4 2025 Economic and Industry Outlook As the third quarter ended, financial markets reflected both progress and caution. Inflation has been easing but remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, and policymakers have signaled that rates will stay higher for longer to ensure price stability. The labor market continues to show resilience, though job growth has moderated compared to earlier in the year. Equity markets have advanced, led primarily by large-cap technology stocks. While that leadership has supported returns, it has also raised concerns about market breadth and sustainability. Fixed-income markets remain sensitive to interest rate expectations as investors weigh the Fed’s next moves. For funeral homes and cemeteries, these conditions underscore the importance of steady trust management and disciplined planning. By maintaining long-term investment strategies and keeping compliance practices strong, firms can navigate periods of uncertainty while continuing to serve families with confidence. If you have questions about the financial world, please contact Michael Faherty, executive vice president, client relations, at mfaherty@argenttrust.com or 504-291-8870. |
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The new platform includes integrated payment options, digital signatures and commission tracking, all designed to save time and simplify daily operations. It is fully paperless, compliant and built to help funeral homes and cemeteries serve families more efficiently. Rollout begins in late 2025, with training and test access provided before going live. For more information, or to request access, contact our Client Services team at clientservices@fsitrust.com or call 800-749-1340. |
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Here are brief summaries of several stories featuring FSI: Growing Preneed Sales in a Market Shifting Toward Cremation In the July issue of Southern Funeral Director, FSI’s Jack Hirsch explores how firms can adapt as cremation becomes the preferred choice for many families. The article highlights strategies for educating families on memorialization, using digital planning tools and offering personalized or green service packages that meet changing consumer expectations. Read the full article here. How to Keep Your Foot on the Gas Through Year-End FSI had the honor of being featured for the first time in Funeral Business Solutions’ July and August edition. Michael Faherty outlines ways firms can maintain momentum through the second half of the year. From strengthening preneed outreach and bundling offerings to reviewing trust investment performance and leveraging technology, he shares practical advice to support a strong finish. Check out the timely article here. Leverage Backend Technology to Sell Smarter and Operate More Efficiently Jack Hirsch had the chance to speak with FuneralVision and examines how digital platforms can reduce administrative friction in the preneed process. Centralizing trust and contract data into one secure system helps firms streamline operations, respond quickly to clients and strengthen compliance practices. You can read all the insights here. |
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