The average American’s defined contribution plan retirement savings rate is at an all-time high, according to Vanguard data. Yet at the same time, more Americans are tapping their 401(k)s or similar plans for emergencies. In 2024, 4.8% of plan participants took hardship withdrawals, up from 3.6% in 2023 and 2.8% in 2022, according to Vanguard. Be Aware: Dave Ramsey: The Biggest 401(k) Mistake People Make Check Out: 6 Big Shakeups Coming to Social Security in 2025 So what is driving these hardship withdraw ...

Dreaming about the future can look a little different as an adult compared to when you were a child. For instance, you might picture yourself among the wealthiest individuals in the United States. In a recent YouTube video, money expert George Kamel looked at what it takes to be in the top 10% of Americans financially. Read More: 6 Signs You’re Actually Upper-Middle Class (Even If You Don’t Feel Rich) Find Out: Here's the Minimum Salary Required To Be Considered Upper Class in 2025 Here’s a look at four mo ...

For investors, fear can be the portfolio killer. It can spur them to sell assets at the wrong time—or adopt a portfolio allocation that may be too conservative for their goals. Fiona Greig, global head of investor research and policy for Vanguard's Investment Strategy Group, spoke with Barron's about the relationship between investors' emotions and their financial behavior. She explained how to overcome fears of a market crash, the importance of first experiences, and why having $2,000 in emergency savings ...