Archive: Stephen P. Utkus

Working together on their budget

Abstract Making portfolio allocation decisions can be difficult for American households who lack interest or experience in financial matters.  Service providers and 401(k) plan sponsors have introduced new plan design approaches and investment products, such as target-date funds, that can simplify savings and investment choices for defined contribution (DC) plan participants.  Some participants invest in…

Hand holding coins in birds nest.

Introduction The private pension landscape has changed dramatically over the past quarter century, with a decisive shift away from traditional defined benefit plans toward defined contribution plans, primarily 401(k)s.  Under the typical 401(k), individuals are responsible for making their own retirement saving decisions.  The first, and most important, decision is whether to participate in t…