8 New Stats on How Retirement Savers Have Fared in Rocky Markets

New data published Thursday by Fidelity Investments shows ongoing market swings and concerns about inflation continue to cause financial stress among retirement savers. According to Fidelity, the percentage of individuals with negative feelings about their finances (32%) is now greater than those who have positive feelings (30%). This is a stark contrast to just a year ago, when the percentage of workers who felt positive about their finances (45%) was more than twice the percentage of those with negative feelings (22%). "The market has taken some dramatic turns this year, including the best month this past October since 1976," Kevin Barry, president of Workplace Investing at Fidelity Investments, said in a statement. "Retirement savers have wisely chosen to avoid the drama and continue making smart choices for the long-term." According to the data, 401(k) and individual retirement account savings rates remain strong despite growing financial concerns among investors. "This is important, because one of the most essential aspects of a sound retirement savings strategy is contributing enough consistently — in up markets, down markets and sideways markets — to help reach your goals," Barry said. See the gallery for eight takeaways from Fidelity Investments' analysis of third-quarter 2022 savings behavior and account balances.