Share of Defined Contribution Pension Entitlements Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles

WFRBSDCPN40 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

38.90

Year-over-Year Change

0.78%

Date Range

7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the share of defined contribution pension plan assets held by households in the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles. It provides insight into the distribution of private retirement savings across the wealth spectrum.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The Share of Defined Contribution Pension Entitlements Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles tracks the proportion of total private retirement assets owned by middle-class and upper-middle-class American households. This metric is used by economists and policymakers to analyze trends in retirement preparedness and wealth inequality.

Methodology

The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.

Historical Context

This trend offers valuable context for discussions around retirement security and wealth distribution policies.

Key Facts

  • The 50th-90th wealth percentiles hold over 70% of total defined contribution pension assets.
  • This share has remained relatively stable over the past two decades.
  • Defined contribution plans are the primary form of private retirement savings in the U.S.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the share of defined contribution pension plan assets held by households in the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles. It provides insight into the distribution of private retirement savings across the wealth spectrum.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This metric is used by economists and policymakers to analyze trends in retirement preparedness and wealth inequality, offering valuable context for discussions around retirement security and wealth distribution policies.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: This trend offers valuable context for discussions around retirement security and wealth distribution policies, as it provides insight into the distribution of private retirement savings across the wealth spectrum.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is updated periodically based on the Survey of Consumer Finances, which is conducted every three years.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Defined Contribution Pension Entitlements Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBSDCPN40), retrieved from FRED.