13 Scary Retirement Statistics to Read in the Dark

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Every year, advisory firms, retirement plan providers, asset managers and advocacy organizations publish an extensive amount of research assessing the retirement preparedness of the U.S. population. Some of the positive findings shared by industry analysts include a clear commitment to tax-advantaged retirement savings among workers and a broad-based realization that steady participation in the financial markets is an important part of individuals' and families' financial futures. There is also greater awareness of the importance of budgeting effectively, preparing for emergency expenses and reducing toxic debt from credit cards or high-interest personal loans. On the other hand, industry research all too often includes highly troubling findings, pointing to such challenges as dramatic savings shortfalls and poor understanding of key investment principles. See the slideshow for a list of 13 of the scariest retirement-related statistics published so far this year. Brave advisors know it is only by confronting such frightening facts that they can ensure their clients are on path toward a tranquil and sure retirement.