Defined Benefits

While the U.S. dominates the global picture in terms of size, how are we faring compared with other countries, both large and small?

The National Institute on Retirement Security hopes to address a misperception (that) persists among some that defined contribution plans save money when compared with traditional pensions.

Low inflation and low interest rates are helping but income inequality and inadequate health care access keep the U.S. at the bottom of the top 20.

There are some things to dislike about some of the retirement-related provisions in President Obamas recently unveiled spending blueprint, but there also are a few items that we can all support.

Assets in U.S. retirement funds reached $22.1 trillion last year after gaining 9 percent year-over-year.

The gains, however, are less than the annual investment returns of 7.5 percent to 8 percent that many state and local governments count on to pay benefits for teachers, police and other employees.