Retirement scan

Why the compensation model for variable annuities may need to change because of the Labor Department's fiduciary proposal; plus, the pros and cons of 401(k) loans and six critical moves for a carefree retirement.

Why your recently retired clients should avoid an overly conservative investing approach; Plus, three smart ways to maximize your Roth IRA and advice for women nearing retirement age.

Retirement savers need to review their asset allocations because many investments are becoming more correlated as the global economy increasingly becomes intertwined; Plus, why the gender gap haunts women even in retirement.

Workers and employers would benefit from a phased retirement, but only one in four workers aged 55 and older have such an option; Plus, clients should avoid being dogmatic about withdrawals.

The benefits debate is part of a concerted effort to show that Social Security is too expensive and needs to be cut, writes Alicia Munnell, director of the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College.

Finding the right investment mix is challenging since it's an imprecise science and depends on market history and asset class valuations; Plus, what clients need to know about the first required distribution.

If mutual funds in 401(k) plans underperform yet charge hefty fees, participants can take action; Plus, President Obama plans to push new rules making it easier for small businesses to offer 401(k) plans.

Even those clients who have amassed substantial savings or have pensions are not ready to leave the work force if they have no health care plans; Plus, talk to clients about these retirement myths.

When stocks tumble, retirement investors are advised to check market fundamentals to determine whether the drop is temporary or signals a broader decline; Plus, nine money apps to keep your clients' retirement planning on track.

One contributor takes exception with the idea that many Americans are in trouble with their savings; Plus, clients should ignore calls to 'sell everything!'

The investing strategy Warren Buffett recommends to his wife when he dies could lead to high stress for other investors during volatile markets since it calls for a high allocation to stocks.

Clients need to craft a plan to withdraw their savings and, if necessary, reassess their retirement goals; Plus, what if clients are offered a lump sum at work?

Despite increased transparency, many participants fail to take the time to understand what they are paying in fees; Plus, how much clients should have saved at every age.

Here's what mutual fund clients stand to lose when they tap their investments during a down market; Plus, how to get big company 401(k) benefits at small firms.

Clients are advised by a panel of experts to remain calm while rates increase; Plus, clients can gain more security by ignoring a budget and saving automatically.

Retirement savers first need to decide the amount of time they have left before retiring; Plus, how clients should react to the market selloff.

Not adding a bonus to savings is just one mistake many clients make, but there are plenty of others too; Plus, clients who want to buy low and sell high need to invest when they're inclined not to.

Clients who consider buying an annuity are advised to avoid purchasing one big product and instead opt for several smaller ones; Plus, what boomers should know about required minimum distributions.

Client who postpone planning need to specify their fears, hopes and aspirations; Plus, helping clients avoid a 401(k) hit.

The government's myRA plan isn't enough to fix the retirement system, says an economics professor; Plus, Social Security options for single seniors.