Expert insight
Retirement reimagined: Elevating financial well-being
October 14, 2025
Retirement plans are evolving to support employees’ holistic financial wellness, not just their long-term savings. Modern plan designs integrate emergency savings options, personalized guidance, and autoenrollment to help participants manage financial challenges and build confidence in their retirement readiness, says Lauren Valente, managing director of Vanguard Workplace Solutions.
In a commentary for Pensions & Investments, Valente discusses several points about this evolution, including:
- Emergency savings options: Incorporating high-yield savings products into retirement plans helps employees address immediate financial pressures, such as student loans and housing costs, even as they pursue their retirement goals.
- Guidance through advice and proactive nudges: Around 73% of Americans respond positively to financial well-being prompts from their financial services providers. Timely support during key life events—such as job changes, education planning, and retirement preparation—encourages plan participants to take action.
- Immediate plan eligibility and autoenrollment: Automatic enrollment and immediate eligibility have significantly increased participation rates and have helped employees stay on track to meet their retirement goals. Nearly half of plans started employees at saving rates of 4% or higher to build momentum.
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