From the Field
When the retirement clock gets wound forward
Glide path design should reflect the possibility of early retirement.
Justin Harvey, ASA, CFA, Head of Analysis, Multi‑Asset Solutions
Adam Langer, CFA, Senior Quantitative Investment Analyst
Key Insights
  • Many defined benefit plans allow or encourage early retirement by granting participants access to benefits prior to Social Security full retirement age.
  • The decision to retire early can materially increase the amount of wealth needed to sustain income over a longer period.
  • Sponsors evaluating their defined contribution glide paths should account for the wealth and early retirement incentives provided by a defined benefit plan.

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