News and Media

Highlights from the PRC Spring Symposium: Public Debt and the Future of Saving and Investment

A group of people seated in a conference room facing a large presentation screen displaying a graph and text.

Hosted by Olivia S. Mitchell and Nikolai Roussanov, Wharton’s Pension Research Council held its annual Spring Symposium in May of 2026, bringing together leading academics, Industry experts, and policymakers to explore the rise of public debt and how it shapes saving, investments, and retirement. Presentations covered the federal debt, social security, investment trends, and retirement wellbeing. …Read More

The Barriers to “Trump Accounts” Benefits

A small group of people standing and looking at a large, illuminated billboard that reads "Trump Accounts" in a cityscape setting.

Many Americans may not realize that “Trump Accounts” still lack key details despite promises of a financial head start for kids. Critics warn they could deepen inequality and offer limited benefits to lower-income families. Wharton economist Olivia S. Mitchell stresses that narrow investment rules and access barriers may limit their impact on long-term financial security.…Read More

TIAA Institute & Boettner/Pension Research Council Partnership Call for Proposals

Illustration of four light bulbs in a row on a chalkboard background, with one bulb lit up in yellow. Below, the text reads "CALL FOR PROPOSALS."

The TIAA Institute & Boettner/Pension Research Council (PRC) Partnership announces a Call for Research Proposals on Behavioral Finance and Retirement. Proposals due May 20, 2026, 5:00 p.m. EST…Read More

Diversifying Retirement Security

A stack of financial documents highlighting "Trump Accounts" through a magnifying glass. Papers feature charts, graphs, and text about investment options and guidelines. Glasses and a pen are nearby.

Many Americans may not realize that key details around proposed “Trump Accounts” are still unsettled, especially how funds will be invested. Early signals suggest a heavy tilt toward U.S. equity index funds, but calls for broader diversification are growing. Wharton economist Olivia S. Mitchell emphasizes that understanding these limits and pushing for diversified options will be key to retirement security.…Read More