Product Updates
Product Updates, June 2026
June's product updates are here, and there's a lot to be excited about. We're continuing to build on the foundation we've established across Catalyst and Insights benchmarking, with this month's updates focused on giving users more precision in how they search, prospect, and manage data.
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June 2, 2026

June's product updates are here, and there's a lot to be excited about. We're continuing to build on the foundation we've established across Catalyst and Insights benchmarking, with this month's updates focused on giving users more precision in how they search, prospect, and manage data.

On the Catalyst side, that means expanded AI assistant capabilities, more flexible export controls, and deeper CRM customization. For benchmarking, we've added AI-powered recommendations and made meaningful improvements to the report experience, including how you access completed reports and how data flows through the submission wizard.

Read on for the full details.

Catalyst

  • Proximity-Based Geographic Search — The AI assistant now supports radius-based company searches around a city, so territory prospecting works the way territories actually do — not just by state, city, or zip.
  • Product Line Gap Queries — Ask the AI assistant which product lines — Stop Loss, EAP, Voluntary, TPA — an employer has or is missing. Cross-sell identification now happens in a conversation, not a spreadsheet.
  • Headcount Milestone Flags — The AI assistant can surface employers who've recently crossed key thresholds: 50, 100, 500 employees. Growth signals and compliance triggers, surfaced automatically.
  • Flexible Export Range Selection — When exporting data, users can now choose the current page, a page range, or a specific record count. Providing precise control without bumping into system limits.
  • Experience Mod Data on Account View — Experience Modification data now appears directly on the Company Overview and Commercial P&C tab, so risk context is right there when you need it.
  • Custom CRM Field Mapping — Account admins can now map platform fields to custom CRM fields, including custom schemas. Providing full control over how data flows in without overwriting existing records.
  • Retirement Search: Total Assets Filter — The Retirement Search Assets filter now filters on Total Assets.

 

Insights+

  • AI-Powered Recommendations in Insights+ Users can now access AI-generated recommendations directly within Insights+. The new recommendations tool surfaces actionable guidance across four categories. Highest Impact, Cost Strategy, Coverage Gaps, and Underwriter Notes, giving users a faster path from report data to next steps.
  • Completion Email Links to HTML Report — When your report is ready, the notification email now links directly to the interactive HTML report including Mployer AI and all report tools, instead of a PDF download.
  • Redesigned Chart Layout — Plan Score and Cohort Market Data sections are now clearly differentiated, and Dental and Vision pages consolidate their left-side tables. Easier to read, faster to interpret.
  • Report Opens Without Losing Your Place — Clicking a company name in the Request History Grid now opens the HTML report in a new tab, so your search state stays exactly where you left it.
  • Rate Availability Edits No Longer Clear Rate Data — Adjusting Rate Availability selections mid-wizard no longer wipes Medical, Dental, or Vision rate and contribution data previously entered. No more lost work.
  • Age-Banded Entry Hidden When Not Applicable — When 'Use employee contributions only' is selected, Age-Banded rate entry is no longer shown — cleaner form, fewer distractions.

That's a wrap! Stay tuned for what's coming next month.

Important Holidays
US Employers Guide to Memorial Day
Commemorated on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in military service. Many Americans honor the day by visiting cemeteries and memorials or participating in parades.
December 13, 2023

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a significant American holiday dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who have died in military service to the United States. As a US-based employer, understanding the solemnity and significance of Memorial Day is crucial for fostering a respectful and supportive workplace culture. In this guide, we'll explore specific dates, the level of importance, background, cultural practices, and how employers can appropriately observe Memorial Day while ensuring legal and compliance considerations.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May each year. It is a fixed holiday, falling on May 30th, or May 31st if May 30th is a Sunday.

Level of Importance

Memorial Day holds an exceptionally high level of importance in the United States. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for the sacrifices made by members of the military.

Background on the Holiday

Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day traces its roots to the aftermath of the American Civil War. It became an official federal holiday in 1971 and has since evolved into a day to honor all American military personnel who have died in service

Specific Cultural Practices

Cultural practices on Memorial Day include visiting cemeteries and memorials, placing flags or flowers on the graves of the fallen, and participating in parades. Many people also observe a moment of silence at 3:00 PM local time to honor and remember the sacrifices made by the military.

Specific Items

Red poppies are often associated with Memorial Day, inspired by the famous war poem "In Flanders Fields." People may choose to wear a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance.

Specific Foods

While there are no specific foods directly tied to Memorial Day, many people commemorate the holiday with outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and picnics. Traditional foods include hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled meats, and patriotic-themed desserts.

Celebrating Memorial Day as a US Employer

Celebrating Memorial Day in the workplace requires a somber and respectful approach. Consider these strategies:

  • Moment of Silence: Start the workday with a moment of silence to honor the fallen. Encourage employees to reflect on the sacrifices made by members of the military.
  • Educational Sessions: Host educational sessions or discussions about the significance of Memorial Day, its history, and the importance of honoring those who have served.

Communicating Memorial Day to Your Teams

Subject: Honoring Our Heroes - Memorial Day Remembrance

Dear [Team],

As Memorial Day approaches, we take a moment to honor and remember the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. This day holds great significance for all Americans, reminding us of the freedoms we enjoy thanks to the sacrifices of our military personnel.

On [date], we will observe a moment of silence at [time] to collectively pay our respects to the fallen. Additionally, [any specific activities or commemorations planned].

Let us use this day to reflect on the importance of service and express our gratitude for the sacrifices made by our military community.

Warm regards, [Your Company]

Legal and Compliance

  • Time-off Requests: Be accommodating to employees who may request time off to participate in Memorial Day observances or spend time with their families.
  • Sensitive Communication: Be mindful of the solemnity of the day in any communications. Avoid using Memorial Day as a promotional or celebratory theme.
  • Workplace Decorum: If the workplace is decorated, ensure that decorations are respectful and in line with the solemn nature of the holiday.

Observing Memorial Day in the workplace is an opportunity to foster a sense of unity and gratitude among your team. By approaching the day with respect and understanding, employers can contribute to a supportive and appreciative workplace culture.

Important Holidays
US Employers Guide to New Year's Day
New Year’s Day takes place on January 1 each year. The first day of the year is often celebrated with parties, fireworks, and various festivities to welcome the new year.
December 13, 2023

New Year's Day is a global celebration, marking the beginning of a fresh year and offering a time for reflection, resolutions, and renewal. As a US-based employer, understanding the significance of New Year's Day and incorporating inclusive practices into the workplace can foster a positive and motivated team. In this guide, we'll explore specific dates, the level of importance, background, cultural practices, and how employers can celebrate and communicate New Year's Day while ensuring legal and compliance considerations.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

New Year's Day is a fixed holiday celebrated on January 1st each year.

Level of Importance

New Year's Day holds a high level of importance globally, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. It symbolizes new beginnings, resolutions, and the opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Background on the Holiday

New Year's Day has ancient roots, with celebrations dating back to various cultures and civilizations. In the modern context, it marks the first day of the Gregorian calendar and is observed with festivities, countdowns, and symbolic acts of renewal.

Specific Cultural Practices

Cultural practices on New Year's Day include midnight countdowns, fireworks displays, parties, and various traditions believed to bring good luck and prosperity into the new year. In the United States, the dropping of the New Year's Eve ball in Times Square is an iconic event.

Specific Items

No specific items are associated with New Year's Day practices, but symbols like confetti, party hats, and noisemakers are commonly used in celebrations.

Specific Foods

While there are no specific foods directly tied to New Year's Day, some cultures have traditions of eating certain foods for good luck. For example, in the Southern United States, eating black-eyed peas and collard greens on New Year's Day is believed to bring prosperity.

Celebrating New Year's Day as a US Employer

Creating an inclusive environment during New Year's Day involves acknowledging the significance of the holiday and respecting diverse traditions. Consider these strategies:

  • Flexible Scheduling: Offer flexibility in work hours or remote work options around New Year's Day to accommodate employees who may have family plans or wish to celebrate.
  • Virtual Celebrations: Host a virtual New Year's Day celebration, allowing team members to share their cultural practices, resolutions, or New Year traditions.

Communicating New Year's Day to Your Teams

Subject: Embracing New Beginnings - Wishing You a Happy New Year

Dear [Team],

As we approach the end of the year, I want to extend warm wishes to each member of our team. New Year's Day is a time of reflection, renewal, and the anticipation of new opportunities.

Whether you're celebrating with loved ones, setting resolutions, or taking a moment to reflect on the past year, we encourage you to embrace the spirit of New Year's Day in a way that resonates with you. If you have any specific customs or practices you'd like to share or if you have any preferences regarding work arrangements during this time, please feel free to communicate with [HR/Management].

Wishing you a joyful and prosperous New Year!

Warm regards, [Your Company]

Legal and Compliance

  • Time-off Requests: Anticipate potential time-off requests around New Year's Day. Establish clear guidelines for requesting time off and ensure fair and consistent treatment of all employees.
  • Inclusive Celebrations: Ensure that any workplace celebrations or decorations are inclusive and considerate of diverse backgrounds.
  • Holiday Pay: Communicate holiday pay policies clearly to avoid misunderstandings.

Observing and respecting New Year's Day in the workplace aligns with creating a positive and inclusive culture. By recognizing the cultural significance of this holiday, employers can strengthen the sense of community and motivation within their teams as they embark on a new year together.

Important Holidays
US Employers Guide to Independence Day (United States)
Independence Day is on July 4. Also known as the Fourth of July, this holiday marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Americans celebrate with fireworks, parades, barbecues, and patriotic displays.
December 13, 2023

Independence Day, celebrated annually on July 4th, is a pivotal American holiday that commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. As a US-based employer, understanding the significance of Independence Day and how to celebrate it in the workplace contributes to fostering a sense of patriotism and camaraderie among your team. This guide will explore specific dates, the level of importance, background, cultural practices, and how employers can celebrate and communicate Independence Day while ensuring legal and compliance considerations.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

Independence Day is a fixed holiday celebrated on July 4th each year.

Level of Importance

Independence Day holds an exceptionally high level of importance in the United States. It is a federal holiday marked by patriotic displays, fireworks, barbecues, and various festivities.

Background on the Holiday

Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring the thirteen American colonies as a new nation, the United States of America. It symbolizes the birth of American freedom and democracy.

Specific Cultural Practices

Cultural practices on Independence Day include parades, fireworks displays, barbecues, picnics, and various patriotic activities. Many Americans display the flag and wear red, white, and blue clothing to show their patriotism.

Specific Items

No specific items are associated with Independence Day practices, but symbols like the American flag, patriotic decorations, and fireworks play prominent roles.

Specific Foods

Independence Day is synonymous with outdoor barbecues and picnics. Traditional foods include hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled meats, corn on the cob, potato salad, and patriotic desserts like apple pie.

Celebrating Independence Day as a US Employer

Creating an inclusive environment during Independence Day involves acknowledging the significance of the holiday and respecting employees' diverse traditions. Consider these strategies:

  • Flexibility in Scheduling: Offer flexible work hours or remote work options around Independence Day to accommodate employees who may have family plans or wish to participate in local celebrations.
  • Virtual Celebrations: Host virtual celebrations, such as a virtual barbecue, trivia contests, or a patriotic-themed online gathering, to include remote team members.

Communicating Independence Day to Your Teams

Subject: Celebrating Independence Day - A Time to Reflect and Unite

Dear [Team],

As Independence Day approaches, we reflect on the values that make our nation strong and resilient. This Fourth of July, let's celebrate the freedom and unity that define us as Americans.

Whether you're spending time with family, enjoying a barbecue, or watching fireworks, we encourage you to embrace the spirit of Independence Day in a way that resonates with you. If you have any specific customs or practices you'd like to share or if you have any preferences regarding work arrangements during this time, please feel free to communicate with [HR/Management].

Wishing you a festive and patriotic Independence Day!

Warm regards, [Your Company]

Legal and Compliance

  • Time-off Requests: Anticipate potential time-off requests around Independence Day. Establish clear guidelines for requesting time off and ensure fair and consistent treatment of all employees.
  • Inclusive Celebrations: Ensure that any workplace celebrations or decorations are inclusive and considerate of diverse backgrounds.
  • Holiday Pay: Communicate holiday pay policies clearly to avoid misunderstandings.

Observing and respecting Independence Day in the workplace aligns with creating a positive and inclusive culture. By recognizing the cultural significance of this holiday, employers can strengthen the sense of community and appreciation within their teams.

Workforce Management
The 3 Most Common Factors Shared By High-Performing Teams
A recent survey of business leaders across more than 2,600 countries highlights some of the underlying attributes that link top-performing teams.
December 13, 2023

Most undertakings of sufficiently minimal complexity require some degree of teamwork and coordination, of course, but not all teams operate at the same level of efficiency and/or produce the same quality output as a result of their cooperation.

For lower-performing teams that want their efforts to result in similar outcomes to those of top-performing teams, one logical place to start might be identifying commonalities among the working conditions and practices of the top groups in order to recreate those conditions and practices with the hopes of achieving similar results. 

To those ends, a recent survey from Dale Carnegie and Associates collected data from business leaders across more than 2,600 countries in order to better understand some of the underlying attributes and cultural qualities that link top-performing teams.

The report - “A Leadership Imperative: Creating A Culture of High-Performing Teams” - revealed that only about 3 out of 10 teams achieved performance levels that qualified for the top tier, and an analysis of the underlying survey data indicates that there are a relatively small number of shared characteristics found among the vast majority of those top-performing teams.

Top 3 Characteristics of Top-Performing Teams

  • Clearly-Defined Goals: In order to evaluate team performance in the first place, it is necessary to have concrete expectations for what constitutes the most desirable outcome, the least desirable outcome, and the range in between. With that in mind, it is unsurprising that 85% of top-performing teams make a priority of clearly defining their goals
  • Daily Interaction: One of the most effective ways to ensure that the moving parts within a time are in alignment, synched up, and operating in a coordinated fashion is to keep lines of communication not just open but active. 81% of top-performing teams report daily interaction among team members.
  • Training & Development: To be clear, access to training and development is not exclusive to only the highest performing teams. In fact nearly half of all teams (49%) across the entire range of the performance spectrum conduct at least some training and development as a part of the team-building process. Given that nearly 3 out of 4 (74%) of top-performing teams train and develop as a unit, however, there appears to be a strong correlation between training and development and high-performance work product nonetheless.

Of course, none of those top-performance-linked factors occur in a vacuum. Daily interaction is only meaningful if the communication is open and productive. Goals can only be clearly-defined if all team-members feel the freedom to ask questions about any aspect of the goals or how they are to be realized that may be unclear to them. Further, not all members of a team must undergo the same training, but all training should be constructed and conducted with the team in mind. 

Accordingly, for leaders that want to inspire team performance to rise to the next level, communicating with transparency and creating an environment where employees feel psychologically safe and free to creatively collaborate is essential in order to build teams with the necessary adaptability to optimize their performance and grade among the top tier of teams in the world. 

You can read more about this topic here

Important Holidays
US Employers Guide to Kathina Ceremony
The Kathina Ceremony is an annual celebration that marks the end of the Buddhist monastic rains retreat (vassa). It is an occasion for lay Buddhists to express gratitude to monks and support the monastic community. The ceremony involves the offering of a special robe (kathina robe) and other requisites to monks, as well as communal activities and merit-making.
December 12, 2023

In fostering an inclusive workplace, understanding and respecting the diverse religious observances of employees is crucial. The Kathina Ceremony is a significant Buddhist holiday that holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning. In this guide, we will explore the dates, level of importance, background, cultural practices, dietary considerations, and how US employers can approach this holiday while adhering to legal and compliance standards.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

The Kathina Ceremony typically takes place during the month following the end of the three-month Buddhist Lent, usually in October or November. The exact date may vary, making it a floating holiday.

Level of Importance

The Kathina Ceremony is of high importance in Buddhism, particularly in Theravada Buddhist traditions. It involves a collective and joyous effort by the community to offer robes and other requisites to monastic communities as a form of merit-making.

Background on the Holiday

The Kathina Ceremony has its roots in the early Buddhist monastic community. It marks the end of the monastic rains retreat, during which monks traditionally stay in one place for intensive meditation and teaching. Lay Buddhists come together to offer new robes and other necessities to monks, fostering a sense of community and generosity.

Specific Cultural Practices

Cultural practices during the Kathina Ceremony include making offerings to monastic communities, engaging in acts of generosity, and participating in rituals that emphasize communal harmony. There are no specific dress codes associated with the Kathina Ceremony, but attendees often wear clean and modest attire.

Specific Items

The primary item associated with the Kathina Ceremony is the offering of new robes to monks. Lay Buddhists often contribute to a collective fund, and the robes are then offered to monks in a communal ceremony.

Specific Foods

While there are no specific dietary restrictions for the Kathina Ceremony, meals offered during this time are often communal and emphasize generosity. Participants may bring food offerings to share with the community.

Celebrating Kathina Ceremony as a US Employer

Creating an inclusive environment during the Kathina Ceremony involves acknowledging the significance of the holiday and respecting employees' cultural practices. Consider these strategies:

  • Cultural Sensitivity Training: Provide cultural sensitivity training to increase awareness of the Kathina Ceremony and its cultural practices. This can foster understanding and appreciation among employees.
  • Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer flexibility in work hours or remote work options to accommodate employees who may wish to participate in or observe the Kathina Ceremony.

Communicating Kathina Ceremony to Your Teams

Subject: Celebrating the Kathina Ceremony - A Time of Generosity and Community

Dear [Team],

As we approach the Kathina Ceremony, I want to extend warm wishes to those in our team who observe this significant Buddhist celebration. The Kathina Ceremony marks the end of the monastic rains retreat, and it is a time when the community comes together to offer new robes and necessities to monks.

If you observe the Kathina Ceremony and have specific customs or practices you'd like to share or if you have any preferences regarding work arrangements during this time, please feel free to communicate with [HR/Management]. Our goal is to ensure that everyone feels supported and respected during this time of generosity and communal harmony.

Wishing you and your families a joyous Kathina Ceremony.

Warm regards, [Your Company]

Legal and Compliance

  • Time-off Requests: Anticipate potential time-off requests for the Kathina Ceremony. Establish clear guidelines for requesting time off and ensure fair and consistent treatment of all employees.
  • Religious Accommodations: Be mindful of potential requests for religious accommodations related to Kathina Ceremony observances. Ensure compliance with anti-discrimination laws and make reasonable accommodations where necessary.
  • Inclusive Policies: Review and update policies to ensure inclusivity. Consider incorporating a diverse range of religious observances in your company's diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Observing and respecting the Kathina Ceremony in the workplace aligns with principles of diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity. By being proactive and understanding, employers can create an environment that values the religious diversity of their team members.

Important Holidays
US Employers Guide to Magha Puja (Sangha Day)
Magha Puja, also known as Sangha Day, commemorates an event where 1,250 arahants (enlightened disciples) spontaneously gathered to pay homage to the Buddha. Celebrated on the full moon day of the third lunar month (usually February), Magha Puja emphasizes the importance of the Sangha (Buddhist monastic community). Buddhists participate in candlelit processions, meditation, and acts of generosity.
December 12, 2023

In fostering an inclusive workplace, understanding and respecting the diverse religious observances of employees is essential. Magha Puja, also known as Sangha Day, is a significant Buddhist celebration that holds deep spiritual meaning. In this guide, we will explore the dates, level of importance, background, cultural practices, dietary considerations, and how US employers can approach this holiday while adhering to legal and compliance standards.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

Magha Puja falls on the full moon day of the third lunar month, typically in February or March. The date varies, making it a floating holiday based on the lunar calendar.

Level of Importance

Magha Puja is of high importance in Buddhism. It commemorates a spontaneous gathering of 1,250 arahants (enlightened monks) who came to pay homage to Buddha without prior arrangement, highlighting the principles of discipline and harmony within the Buddhist Sangha (community).

Background on the Holiday

Magha Puja commemorates a historical event that occurred nine months after Buddha's enlightenment. On this day, Buddha delivered the "Ovadha Patimokkha," a set of principles emphasizing ethical conduct, mental discipline, and the pursuit of wisdom to his assembled followers.

Specific Cultural Practices

Cultural practices on Magha Puja include visiting temples, offering prayers, and participating in candlelit processions. Buddhists may also engage in meditation, chanting, and acts of generosity. There are no specific dress codes associated with Magha Puja.

Specific Items/Activities

While there are no specific items mentioned for Magha Puja, engaging in activities that promote spiritual reflection and mindfulness, such as meditation and reading Buddhist scriptures, is common.

Specific Foods

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Magha Puja. Buddhists may choose to follow their regular dietary practices, which may include vegetarian or vegan choices.

Celebrating Magha Puja as a US Employer

Creating an inclusive environment during Magha Puja involves acknowledging the significance of the holiday and respecting employees' cultural practices. Consider these strategies:

  • Cultural Sensitivity Training: Provide cultural sensitivity training to increase awareness of Magha Puja and its cultural practices. This can foster understanding and appreciation among employees.
  • Flexibility in Scheduling: Offer flexibility in work hours or remote work options to accommodate employees who may wish to observe Magha Puja.

Communicating Magha Puja to Your Teams

Subject: Commemorating Magha Puja - Spontaneous Gathering of Arahants

Dear [Team],

As we approach Magha Puja, also known as Sangha Day, I want to extend warm wishes to those in our team who observe this significant Buddhist celebration. Magha Puja commemorates the spontaneous gathering of 1,250 arahants who came to pay homage to Buddha without prior arrangement, emphasizing the principles of discipline and harmony.

If you observe Magha Puja and have specific customs or practices you'd like to share or if you have any preferences regarding work arrangements during this time, please feel free to communicate with [HR/Management]. Our goal is to ensure that everyone feels supported and respected during this spiritually meaningful occasion.

Wishing you and your families a serene and reflective Magha Puja.

Warm regards, [Your Company]

Legal and Compliance

  • Time-off Requests: Anticipate potential time-off requests for Magha Puja. Establish clear guidelines for requesting time off and ensure fair and consistent treatment of all employees.
  • Religious Accommodations: Be mindful of potential requests for religious accommodations related to Magha Puja observances. Ensure compliance with anti-discrimination laws and make reasonable accommodations where necessary.
  • Inclusive Policies: Review and update policies to ensure inclusivity. Consider incorporating a diverse range of religious observances in your company's diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Observing and respecting Magha Puja in the workplace aligns with principles of diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity. By being proactive and understanding, employers can create an environment that values the religious diversity of their team members.