Research Report What the 2008 Stock Market Crash Means for Retirement Security
Barbara Butrica, Karen E. Smith, Eric Toder
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The one-third drop in the S&P 500 index between year-end 2007 and 2008 raises concerns about retirement security since Americans now hold more equities through their retirement plans. Those near retirement will fare the worst because they have no time to recoup their losses. Midcareer workers will fare better because they have more time to rebuild their wealth. They may even gain income if they buy stocks at low prices and get above-average rates of return. High-income groups will be the most affected because they are most likely to have financial assets and to be invested in the stock market.
Research Areas Wealth and financial well-being Aging and retirement
Tags Economic well-being Asset and debts Pensions Retirement policy
Policy Centers Income and Benefits Policy Center