Core Insights - Participating in an employer 401(k) plan is beneficial due to automatic paycheck deductions and potential employer matching contributions, which can be considered free money for retirement savings [1][2] Group 1: Benefits of 401(k) Plans - 401(k) plans are easy to fund as contributions are automatically deducted from paychecks [1] - Many employers offer matching contributions, providing an opportunity for additional retirement savings [2] Group 2: Pitfalls of 401(k) Plans - 401(k) plans typically do not allow investments in individual stocks, which may hinder the ability to achieve higher market returns [5] - High fees associated with mutual funds and target date funds can erode savings over time [8] - Target date funds may be overly conservative, potentially limiting growth in retirement accounts [6]

President Trump is expected to sign an executive order in coming days aimed at opening up 401ks to private assets. Sharon Eper joins us now with more on what that could mean for 401k investors. Good morning, Sharon. Good morning, Melissa.Well, an executive order does not have the same weight of law, but it sends a strong signal that could encourage 401 play sponsors to include private assets in their offerings. Now, that's a big market. There more than 12 trillion in assets in defined contribution plans. Ne ...