The past couple of years have been challenging for almost everyone invested in stocks or bonds, including anyone saving for retirement through employer-sponsored plans. With markets down across the board and historic inflation squeezing American paychecks by driving up the price of rents and groceries, Americans are dealing with financial issues we haven’t seen in a generation.
When financial times are tough, it can be hard to remember that markets have always fluctuated, and economic conditions are cyclical. As we look ahead, there are four numbers that can help put recent economic conditions in a broader context. I encourage retirement savers to keep these themes in mind as we turn the page toward 2023. 25% According to John Hancock data, one in four (25%) of retirement savers assessed said that their finances often caused them stress in the third quarter of this year. That number is up from 18% in the first quarter, a substantial increase. While it’s natural to be stressed when you see rising inflation and falling markets in the headlines and feeling them in your wallet, if you’re not careful, stress can cloud your judgment and even take a toll on your health. Taking stock of what you can control, and what you cannot, can help y …