Blogs

For the past five years, Black Rock’s DC Pulse survey has helped identify trends in retirement and highlight the needs and concerns of savers. As we come out of COVID-19, it’s a timely lens into the mindset of savers and what’s needed going forward. A key focus of the 2021 DC Pulse survey was retirement income. Survey results indicate that workers have a strong desire for a retirement savings vehicle that can produce a predictable income stream throughout their retirement years. In fact, 81% of participants said it would be helpful if their employer-provided secure income-generating options in...

Want to Improve Retirement Outcomes? Make Sure Employees Understand Social Security Basics New research reveals Americans have a significant knowledge gap regarding Social Security benefits. According to a recent survey 1, more than half of Americans express confidence that they know exactly how to optimize their Social Security benefits. However, only 6% actually understand all the factors that determine the maximum benefit someone can receive. In addition, the report highlighted additional knowledge gaps: A full 39% don’t know at what age they are eligible to receive their full benefits...

Knowing the different types of investment risk can help you cope with market volatility. When was the last time you checked your retirement plan balance? If your balance was less than it was the last time you checked, you probably felt a bit of pain. Everybody does. Where exactly does that pain come from? It’s called risk, and all investments involve some degree of risk. In finance speak, risk refers to the degree of uncertainty and/or potential financial loss inherent in an investment decision. In general, as investment risks rise, investors seek higher returns to compensate themselves for...

Master these Social Security lessons to get a more realistic view of your retirement. According to Nationwide’s 8th Annual Social Security Consumer Survey, more than half of Americans express confidence that they know exactly how to optimize their Social Security benefits. However, only 6% actually understand all the factors that determine the maximum benefit someone can receive. In addition, the report highlighted additional knowledge gaps: A full 39% don’t know at what age they are eligible to receive their full benefits. Just over half (51%) do not have a clear understanding of how much...

Follow these three tips to help reach a state of happiness on a daily basis. Do you find that happiness is hard to come by on some days? With all the challenges of the past year, it’s sometimes just easier to find imperfections in everything and let crankiness rule your day. However, if you want to boost your mood and positivity, here are three things you can do to help find your happy place. “There is no key to happiness; the door is always open.” — Mother Teresa Get Moving If you find yourself grappling with negative thoughts and emotions, getting outdoors and exercising regularly can boost...