Members of 401(k) plans nationwide are feeling richer. The average account balance in plans run by Fidelity Investments hit $77,300 in the fourth quarter. That was an all-time high since Fidelity — the largest operator of 401(k)s — began to track this data in 2007. Workers ages 60 to 64 averaged $134,600. Studies of other plans industrywide show similar trends. See Four Steps for Boosting your 401k Balance
Man vs. Machine: The Great Stock Showdown
It has always been difficult for investors to consistently beat index funds. It has been nearly impossible lately. And there’s a double whammy: The small number of advisers who outperform the market rarely can keep doing so. One big culprit, experts say: the rise of sophisticated computer-trading programs. Man vs. Machine
May Retirement Report
What is the true objective of your company match? Is it intended to help your employees save more for retirement? Is it used as a tool to recruit new employees? Do you offer a match to incentivize lower paid employees to save more in order to improve your non discrimination test? In the end, is your company match achieving its objective? May 2013
One Nest Egg is Best
It is not uncommon to wind up with multiple 401(k)s after switching jobs a few times during the course of a career. Companies usually allow employees to leave their money in the plans even after they leave the company, although non-employees are not allowed to make contributions. One Nest Egg is Best
April Retirement Report
Plan sponsors may offer hardship withdrawal provisions as part of their 401(k) plan. This design feature is optional. These provisions allow an employee to withdraw money from their account for reasons set forth by the IRS as immediate and heavy financial needs. April 2013
1st Quarter Newsletter 3/31/2013
The Fiscal Cliff (remember that story?), Sequestration, the Cyprus Bail In, Kim Jong Un Missile Madness, Iranian Nukes, Beppe Grillo, QE 4-Ever. Tomorrow and next week will bring more new names and games to the headlines and Twitter accounts across the globe. Mr. Market either hasn’t noticed or likes what he sees. Newsletter 3-31-2013