4 Mistakes Millennials are Making with their Retirement Accounts
The word “Millennial” has been more descriptive of a culture rather than a well-defined group. The Pew Research Center has made a best guess as to exactly how old that generation is, pointing to anyone born between 1981 and 1996.1 By that measure, in 2018, the eldest Millennials are 37 years old. They grew up during the dot-com boom where it seemed that technology drove the economy to new heights and likely heard how important it is to invest to get wealthy. They also lived through the financial crisis, and may have had a hard time finding work after incurring huge amounts of student debt. These experiences may have colored their view of the economy and how best to negotiate it.
Some observers have noticed that Millennials could be making better decisions when it comes to investment strategies. Here are some of the decisions (mistakes) that they are making:
1. Cash Heavy
The biggest mistake may be not having a retirement account at all. A study from Bankrate, a financial services company, finds that many Millennials are heavily invested in cash. That means they have lots of money in savings accounts or checking accounts, not so much in investments.2 The strategy is understandable given how the markets rocked the economy in 2007. Yet, having a more diverse portfolio that earns more interest than a savings account may be best.
2. Fear of the Markets
The fear of stock market volatility may be a rational fear. However, it may be counterproductive; erring on the side of stability and it may prevent Millennials from creating a robust retirement fund. While a short-term hiccup can cause havoc with an investment portfolio, stocks can produce a good return over the long-term if the investor has a goal in mind and a plan to reach that goal.
3. Blind Investing
Other research from financial services companies shows that Millennials are less likely to review investment portfolios or their 401(k) after they’ve initiated them. They don’t look to review and readjust portfolios for market changes. While they are relatively young, Millennials have the time to do more with their money. They can take more risks, which could mean market investments instead of cash. They can reallocate funds annually or when they start to earn more money. A diverse portfolio can help mitigate risk so that one wrong move won’t ruin plans. The relative youth of Millennials also gives them time to make a plan and invest towards a goal, whether it’s college or retirement.
4. Not Getting the Full Benefit
Many Millennials are part of the freelance economy which means they may not have access to a company 401(k) plan but, even if their employer does offer a 401(k) and matches contributions or a percentage of it, some Millennials still aren't taking full advantage. If an employer matches contribution to a retirement account at 100% and the employee isn't contributing as much as possible, they could be missing out on thousands of dollars over time.
5. How Can you Help your Millennial Employees Make Better Financial Decisions? Strategize with a Financial Advisor!
Over a short period of time, the Millennial generation has seen great turmoil in the economy and in the world. They have seen more changes than their boomer predecessors have, and they continue to experience some uncertainty. Having a sound financial plan for retirement may help ease some of their concerns. Whether you have an employee just starting out in the job market or has a strong career going full steam, it will help them secure financial well-being if they can discuss investment strategies and retirement plans with a financial advisor. Hiring the right financial advisor for your company retirement plan is crucial. The right one can educate your employees so they can understand the way a system or process works and therefore empowers their ability to make informed decisions in their financial well-being.
This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. #01-05094083
Joseph Cappuccino is a registered representative with, and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, A Registered Investment Advisor. Member of FINRA/SIPC.