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

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

Income Floors For Retirement Longevity

Illustration depicting financial security. It shows "Income Floor" with elements like guaranteed income through a building, social security, and investments and savings represented by stacked coins and an upward arrow.

Wharton professor Olivia S. Mitchell explains that many retirees underspend because they fear running out of money. That fear can be eased by securing guaranteed lifetime income, such as through lifetime annuities. When retirees know their basics are covered and how much they can safely spend, they feel confident enjoying life without worrying about running out of money.Read More

The Annuities Appeal

A group of people attending a seminar or meeting focused on annuities, with a presenter in front of a whiteboard displaying charts and text.

Should annuities be a default option in retirement plans? Retirees remain divided, even as Wharton Professor Olivia S. Mitchell’s new research highlights annuities’ potential to provide lifetime income and retirement security. In her recent follow-up article for the WSJ, she addresses readers’ concerns about cost, flexibility, and overall appeal.Read More

The Determinants Behind Boomer Prosperity

A group of smiling older adults standing outdoors in a line, enjoying a sunny day. They appear to be in a park or natural setting.

US Baby Boomers, now age 61-79, amassed unprecedented retirement wealth, yet it wasn’t entirely due to their good planning skills, reports Wharton economist Prof. Olivia S. Mitchell. Rising productivity, increasing real earnings, and significant housing appreciation boosted their outcomes, while younger generations benefited far less from these forces.Read More