With all of the prevailing data as proof, it might seem slightly insane to suggest that defined benefit pension plans could make a gigantic comeback – and emerge again as America's predominant retirement strategy.

After all, we continue to see major companies scurry to drop their DB obligations and each day brings news of flatter returns and deeper funding deficits for the once-powerful pensions, both public and private.

But if you extrapolate some emerging financial trends and think about the long-term effect of the inevitable rise in interest rates – and consider the everpresent reality that DC benefits aren't going to be a complete solution for the bulk of the American retirement savings public – there could be a big future for DB plans.