The Fragile Decade: A Matter of Timing

Key Takeaways

• The years just before and after retirement can have an outsized impact on long-term outcomes.
• Unexpected events during this period can affect income for decades.
• Planning early can make the transition into retirement more stable and manageable.

The five years before and after retirement are often called the “Fragile Decade.” During this window, decisions about income, investments, and risk protection have an outsized impact on long-term retirement success.

Market downturns, unexpected health events, or an earlier-than-planned retirement during this period can affect income for decades to come. At the same time, investment strategies that worked during your working years, when you were still accumulating savings, may no longer be appropriate once withdrawals begin.

Priorities often shift in retirement as well. Stability and predictability frequently become more valuable than chasing growth. Planning early allows retirees to adapt gradually rather than react under pressure when a downturn or unexpected event hits.

A thoughtful income plan during the Fragile Decade can help protect assets, manage risk, and create a smoother transition into retirement spending.

Disclosures:

This material is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal, tax, or insurance advice. It should not be relied upon as a recommendation to purchase, sell, or exchange any security or insurance product. Investors should consult their financial, tax, and legal professionals before making financial decisions.

Annuities are insurance products issued by insurance companies. Guarantees are subject to the claims paying ability and financial strength of the issuing insurer. Product features, limitations, fees, surrender charges, and availability vary by contract and carrier.

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