Defined Contribution

There are dramatic differences when it comes to average account balances, participation rates and other metrics.

Tough markets in 2022 caused average balances to fall across industries, but some sectors managed to outperform significantly, according to Judy Diamond's 401(k) Benchmark Report.

Since most retirees no longer have pensions, financial advisors need to advise employees to take some of their 401(k) assets and convert them into protected income earmarked for retirement days, says The Longevity Project.

Stock options give every employee the ability to become a part owner of a company but members of the management team might be at greater risk because a larger percentage of their compensation might be in stock.

In 2024, a provision in the SECURE 2.0 legislation permits an employer that is not sponsoring a retirement plan to offer a starter 401(k) or safe harbor 403(b) plan to its employees that is exempt from certain nondiscrimination requirements.

Employees are expecting more from their companies and they're pushing for greater financial flexibility to give them a leg up on building wealth – perks that go far beyond a 401(k) plan, such as student loan repayment.