Key Takeaways Older workers were the most likely to max out their 401(k)s, according to a recent report. Those who feel behind on saving can improve their outlook by increasing contributions, delaying Social Security, or working longer. If you're approaching retirement but aren't on track to have enough money saved, now might be a good time to try upping your 401(k) contributions. Of all age groups, those aged 55 to 64 were the most likely to have maxed out their 401(k)s in 2024, according to Vangu ...

We get to build that relationship, start to earn some of their trust. That trust then pays off over time and over the investing journey of that client. There are certainly a lot of demographics that sit behind that as well, and a lot of movement every year from the ERISA world to the non-ERISA world, and from workplace into either taxable or non-taxable wealth. The numbers move up and down a bit every year, but it’s short of $1 trillion that moves from one to the other. That’s where, in just a plain-va ...

Core Insights - The traditional structure of 401(k) plans has limited investment options, but recent regulatory changes are enabling plans to offer a broader range of alternatives [2][3] - An executive order from President Trump in August 2025 is set to allow the Department of Labor to modify ERISA guidance, facilitating access to alternative investments such as private equity, real estate, and digital assets within 401(k) plans [3] - The introduction of "TDF 2.0" is anticipated, which will incorporate a small allocation to alternatives alongside traditional assets in target-date funds [6] Investment Options Assessment - While new investment options are emerging, significant changes to fund menus are not expected immediately; rather, incremental adjustments are likely [5] - The decision-making process for participants regarding the new options, particularly "TDF 2.0," may be challenging due to the complexity of assessing the value of alternatives compared to traditional funds [7] - The fee structure associated with alternative investments is a critical factor, as alternatives do not always guarantee better performance than traditional assets [8][9]

Core Insights - A significant majority of 401(k) participants (93%) desire guaranteed lifetime income options in their retirement plans, yet most current plans do not provide these options [2][8] - Effective decumulation strategies are essential for retirees to manage their savings without depleting them, balancing current living needs with long-term financial security [3][4] Decumulation Challenges - Transitioning from saving to spending in retirement presents challenges, including market volatility, taxes, and healthcare costs, leading to potential over-withdrawing or overly conservative strategies [4] - The absence of a structured income during retirement creates uncertainty for retirees, complicating their financial planning [4] Building a Sustainable Income - Establishing a guaranteed income floor through reliable sources like Social Security or pensions is a foundational step in creating a decumulation strategy [5] - Implementing a bucket strategy allows retirees to manage short-term and long-term financial needs effectively, using cash or bonds for immediate needs and equities for growth [6] Income Tools and Options - Fixed annuities are a popular choice for retirees seeking guaranteed income, with 90% of 401(k) participants open to using them for steady retirement income [7] - Lifetime income can also be derived from various sources, including Social Security, pensions, and well-planned withdrawal strategies, emphasizing the importance of a reliable income floor [8]

M&A Activity in Financial Advisory Industry - Wealth Enhancement acquired a registered investment advisor managing $2.2 billion in assets [2] - Dynasty Financial Partners' firm Procyon acquired a $500 million RIA in Michigan and Texas [2] - Earned, a healthcare-focused practice, acquired an Ohio RIA managing $900 million [2] Lido Advisors Acquisition - Lido Advisors acquired Stuart Chaussée & Associates, a family-run wealth management firm in California managing over $500 million [3] - Lido Advisors has grown to $38 billion in assets under management [3] - The firm is owned by employees and investors including Charlesbank Capital Partners, HPS Investment Partners, and Constellation Wealth Capital [4] Vestwell Acquisition - Vestwell agreed to acquire Accrue 401k, adding about 30,000 retirement plans and 350,000 plan participants to its platform [5] - The acquisition enhances Vestwell's ability to sync plans with partners across payroll and financial services [5][7] - Vestwell will serve as the retirement plan platform for Accrue 401(k) clients using non-Gusto payroll providers [7]

Core Insights - The article discusses the potential for integrating annuities into 401(k) plans as a solution to the retirement savings gap, emphasizing the need for consumer education and product innovation [2]. Group 1: Regulatory Changes - The Department of Labor is implementing President Trump's directive to allow alternative assets in 401(k) plans, although progress has been hindered by a government shutdown [2]. - In August, the Department rescinded a statement from the Biden administration that discouraged fiduciaries from including alternative investments in employer-sponsored retirement plans [2].