I'm gonna throw this out there simply because I don't believe that most people don't know that this is an option.
I recently converted 1/2 of my 401k into a brokerage option. That is the reason that I have recently aquired the ability to "buy in bulk". I believe that most plans allow you to do this to some extent.
One advantage is "no capital gains"! You profit from a trade, reinvest it in whatever you choose. Any gain is taxed as you withdraw it (after retirement at a lower rate?).
I thought this over for at least 2 months before engaging this option. I hope that anyone else whom may consider the same think it over for a period of time.
The way I look at it, I can invest in lackluster mutual funds, bonds, fixed income, etc... Or I can "self direct". Either way, I am investing. The difference is that it is my choice or "theirs"
I truely belive in PCFG. If I end up being wrong, I have "Oh so screwed myself!!" But I don't believe this to be the case. Time will tell. It beats the hell out of taking out a 401k loan (which I know some have engaged in based upon their posts).
If you opt for this choice, take the time to consider it seriously.
Just my 2 cents. Take for what it is worth!