Hello, world!
Welcome to the Life is Rich Roundup. Allow us to introduce ourselves. We’re Savvly, and we’re on a mission to create the world’s first market-driven pension system.
Why? Because the retirement system is broken and people need better options so they don’t die in poverty. And because the industry is BORING with little to no innovation in the last 50 years.
We’re here to shake things up. While everyone is talking about AI, crypto, and tech, the sleepy $36 TRILLION retirement industry is sitting right under our noses, just hanging out and waiting for change.
So why should you subscribe to this newsletter? We’ll share interesting, curated articles in the untapped retirement space, as well as sharp investing and longevity news. We’ll also share things we think are cool, just because. And you’ll be the first to know about our market-driven pension that’s coming soon.
Let’s dive in.
Last month, Larry Fink’s annual letter to investors focused on retirement and the need for change. He says the move from pensions to 401(k)s represents an impossible math problem.
“The shift from defined benefit to defined contribution has been, for most people, a shift from financial certainty to financial uncertainty.”
- Larry Fink
We couldn’t agree more, Larry.
So, we’re not surprised that BlackRock unveiled their new retirement offering this week. Basically, it will give the option to invest in an annuity within an employer-sponsored retirement plan. It can give you a “paycheck for life” and peace of mind.
We aren’t the biggest fan of annuities (see why we created Savvly) but we love to see new retirement solutions coming on the scene. The more options, the better.
Interesting visual of adults with money to save at the end of each month. Not surprisingly, the older the respondent, the more stable their finances. Higher education also dramatically improves the chances of extra disposable income. See more here.
The U.S. Department of Labor finalized its Retirement Security Rule to protect the millions of workers saving for retirement. It requires trusted investment advice providers to give honest advice free from overcharges. These fiduciaries must provide high standards of care when they recommend investments and avoid bad recommendations and harmful conflicts of interest.
TLDR: the retirement system is slowly making progress to become more investor-centric. If you’re looking to fall asleep, read the full document, see here.
In a recent breakthrough study, EVs (tiny bubbles emitted by cells) were taken from young mice and injected into elderly mice. The treatment extended their median lifespan by about 1/8th and improved health indicators like muscle mass and hair retention.
It also reversed signs of aging in male reproductive health and enhanced overall physical fitness, cardiac function, and bone density. Cognitive functions and physical endurance also saw significant improvements. The study concludes that it may be possible to use EVs from mice in human beings for the same effects. Wild.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) voted on Tuesday to ban noncompete agreements that prevent tens of millions of employees from working for competitors or starting a competing business after they leave a job.
From fast food workers to CEOs, the FTC estimates that 18% of the U.S. workforce is covered by noncompete agreements — about 30 million people. Read more here.
Good: TSA Explosive Detection Pup Gets the Perfect Surprise Retirement Party
Looking for high-return options to boost your retirement? Consider spicing up your portfolio with alternative investments.
In the latest Savvly blog, we round up some of the top alternative investments making waves this year. Check it out.
Assumptions and Risk Disclosure
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment, legal, or tax advice. It is designed solely to illustrate how longevity-based investment benefits may work under certain assumptions. Actual results will vary.
All illustrations, examples, and case studies are hypothetical and are intended to demonstrate potential scenarios—not to predict or guarantee actual outcomes. They do not represent the performance of any individual investor, portfolio, or account.
Key Assumptions Used in the Illustrations
- Life expectancy and mortality projections are based on the most recent Social Security Administration (SSA) tables available at the time of simulation.
- In the event of death or early withdrawal, hypothetical scenarios assume that beneficiaries may receive 75% of the lesser of the initial investment or current market value, plus 1% for each full year the account was active.
- Case studies assume standardized market growth of 8% annually and do not incorporate unexpected market volatility, inflation, changes in interest rates, or changes in an investor’s personal circumstances.
- Simulations may assume a 3% annual early withdrawal rate prior to payout or death.
- All figures shown are net of fees.
Risks to Consider
- Market Risk: Investment values will fluctuate and may be worth more or less than the amount invested. There are no guaranteed returns.
- Sequence of Returns Risk: The order and timing of market gains or losses—particularly near the payout phase—can materially affect results.
- Longevity Risk: Living longer than projected may reduce the pooled benefit per participant; shorter-than-expected lifespans may affect the amount received.
- Redemption Impact: Early or voluntary withdrawals by other participants can impact overall fund performance and distribution outcomes.
No forecast, projection, or hypothetical return should be relied upon as a promise or representation of future performance. Investors should carefully evaluate their own circumstances and consult a qualified financial professional before making any investment decision.