Share of Defined Contribution Pension Entitlements Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles
This dataset tracks share of defined contribution pension entitlements held by the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles over time.
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 News

U.S. Stock Markets Hit Record Highs Amid Nvidia, OpenAI Partnership
Nvidia's OpenAI Partnership Excites U.S. Markets The unprecedented performance of the U.S. stock markets can be largely attributed to Nvidia's exciting partnership with OpenAI. This collaboration is not only setting new records for Nvidia shares but is also invigorating other tech stocks, leading to historic highs in indices like the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq. Record-high stocks signify significant investment opportunities, underscored by revolutionary artificial intelligence innovations.

U.S. Stock Futures Stagnant Despite Positive Jobless Claims and GDP
Why US Stock Futures Remain Stagnant Despite Positive Economic Indicators The current investment landscape is puzzling for many as US stock futures struggle to show a definite trend despite favorable economic signals. These signals, such as jobless claims and Q2 GDP figures, suggest a healthy economy. Given the roles of the stock market and the Federal Reserve's decisions on rate hikes, it is surprising to witness this stagnation. Inflation trends and the Fed's signals about future policies pla

U.S. Home Sales Decline In August Due To High Prices
August 2023 U.S. Home Sales Decline Amid Rising Mortgage Rates and High Prices In August 2023, U.S. home sales experienced a notable decline, highlighting a distressing trend in the housing market. Homeownership is more costly these days. High home prices and soaring 30 year mortgage rates, combined with limited housing inventory, pose significant challenges for potential buyers and cast a shadow on economic recovery efforts. Many potential homebuyers find themselves increasingly priced out of

U.S. jobless claims decline to lowest level since mid-July
U.S. Jobless Claims Drop: A Positive Sign for Economic Growth The U.S. economy is signaling a positive turn as the initial jobless claims have dropped to their lowest level since mid-July, suggesting a more resilient labor market. This decline in jobless claims is not just a number; it reflects crucial dynamics in the U.S. economy and employment landscape. As people file fewer claims for unemployment benefits, it suggests a strengthening employment market and a recovering economy. Also, the cur

U.S. Trade Deficit Decreases As Businesses Anticipate Tariff Hikes
U.S. Trade Deficit Reaches Two-Year Low Amid Anticipated Tariff Hikes The recent announcement that the U.S. trade deficit has reached a two-year low signals significant developments for the national economy. This change may, in part, be influenced by the anticipation of tariff hikes, which are affecting trade patterns. As this event unfolds, it has implications for the U.S. GDP, underscoring the importance of reducing the trade deficit. Trade tensions have long shaped the global economic landsc

U.S. Treasury Yields Increase Amid Strong Economic Growth and Inflation Concerns
Treasury Yields Surge Amid Economic Growth and Inflation Concerns Treasury yields are surging as investors closely monitor the evolving U.S. economic landscape. Recent data 10-year Treasury yield. With economic growth on one side and inflation data on the other, it's essential to unpack these complex dynamics. By analyzing these factors, we gain insights into the Federal Reserve's role in shaping monetary policy and the consequential market implications. The Federal Reserve's policies, market v
Similar WFRBSDCPN Trends
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Defined Contribution Pension Entitlements Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBSDCPN40), retrieved from FRED.