Building Financial Futures in America

Fidelity’s Building Financial Futures provides a quarterly analysis of retirement savings trends and behaviours across Fidelity’s retirement savings platforms. In addition to quantitative metrics such as account balances, contribution rates and asset allocation, the analysis includes qualitative insight on participant behavior and sentiment.

In a period of ongoing economic uncertainty, the research highlights encouraging signs of resilience in retirement saving behaviours. Average retirement account balances have continued to grow, with 401(k) balances increasing by more than 11% year-on-year, while contribution rates remain strong at around 9.5% for employees. Notably, nearly 4 in 10 workers increased their savings rate, signalling a sustained commitment to long-term financial goals despite market volatility.

At the same time, employees are increasingly seeking simplicity and support in how they invest. More than two-thirds now use “do-it-for-me” solutions such as target date funds or managed accounts, and fewer than 1 in 10 made changes to their investments during periods of market uncertainty. With almost 9 in 10 workers benefiting from employer contributions, organisations continue to play a critical role in shaping positive outcomes.

As financial decisions become more complex, there is a clear opportunity for employers to build on this momentum helping employees engage more confidently with their financial futures while supporting long-term wellbeing.