Gen X Is Feeling the Retirement Pressure

Some weeks, the market churns out more questions than answers: Are private investments worth the risk in retirement accounts? Can retirees really “set it and forget it?” And how much flexibility do you need to weather the unexpected?

This week’s top headlines bring those questions into focus. From major tax changes for older Americans to the changing role of traditional portfolios, here’s what’s shaping the financial conversation right now.

With that, here’s what to know this week.

Need a sounding board? Take our free 2-minute quiz to get matched with an advisor who can help you make sense of it all.

—The Money Pickle Team

Is the 60/40 Portfolio Still Working?

The classic model of 60% stocks and 40% bonds has long been a go-to for conservative investors. But in today’s high-volatility, low-yield world, that mix isn’t behaving as expected. Some financial professionals are revisiting goal-based strategies and alternative tools, like structured notes, to help clients stay on track.

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Early Retirement May Include a Side Hustle

Even the best-laid retirement plans need flexibility, regular reassessment, and maybe a few side income ideas in your back pocket. That’s what one couple discovered after they retired with no mortgage at 55, backed up by pensions and savings. Rising costs, inflation, and a few curveballs have sent them back to work, picking up gigs in construction, teaching, and freelance writing.

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New Senior Tax Breaks Could Shake Up Retirement Plans

The recently passed “megabill” includes a new $6,000 deduction (per person) for retirees over 65. That could have ripple effects on Roth conversions, capital-gains planning, and Medicare premium calculations. For retirees in the sweet spot, this could mean meaningful tax savings. But as experts note, it’s all about the details — and the scenarios you run.

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Is Private Equity Too Risky for Your 401(k)?

Private equity is starting to trickle into mainstream retirement plans. Proponents say it’s a long-overdue move to “democratize” access to higher-return alternatives. But critics are sounding alarms: these investments can be opaque, illiquid, and carry higher fees. For the average investor, that could mean added complexity without a clear benefit. The SEC is now reviewing how these offerings impact long-term retirement security.

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Gen X Feels the Retirement Squeeze

A recent report shows that the average Gen X household has saved just $40,000 for retirement — and 4 in 10 haven’t saved anything at all. Caught between aging parents, adult children, and rising living costs, many Gen Xers feel unprepared. But experts say it’s not too late to regain control.

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🥒 Pickle Tip:

The biggest threats to a retirement plan aren’t always market moves — sometimes, it’s lifestyle creep or a tax surprise. A little recalibration now might save you some side hustling later.

🌟 Final Thought

Whether you’re revisiting your portfolio mix or reassessing your retirement timeline, this week’s stories reinforce one core truth: smart financial planning isn’t about predicting the future — it’s about being ready for it. If you are worried about your retirement plan, a quick conversation with an advisor in the Money Pickle network can help you bring more clarity to your retirement plan.

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