Why 65 Doesn’t Mean What It Used To

From new moves to bring private markets into 401(k)s, to growing concerns about financial literacy and aging, the retirement landscape is evolving faster than many expected. For Gen X and boomers alike, these shifts raise big questions: When should I retire? How long will my money last? What risks haven’t I considered?

We’re here to help you stay informed. Below are five timely stories that shine a light on where things are headed — and how you can start thinking more strategically about your next financial chapter.

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

Trump Readies Executive Order on 401(k)s and Private Equity

President Trump is expected to sign an executive order that aims to ease restrictions on private-market investments inside 401(k) plans. If he does, it could pave the way for asset managers like Apollo and Blackstone to access retirement savings from individual investors.

While this may increase diversification opportunities, it also raises questions around fees, transparency, and investor protections. For now, it’s a signal to keep watching how retirement products evolve.

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Financial Advisors Are Rethinking Retirement Strategies

In response to inflation and uncertainty around programs like Social Security and Medicare, many advisors are shifting their approach. Ideas in circulation include phased retirements, flexible spending strategies, and cash “safe buckets” to manage market volatility.

There’s no one-size-fits-all plan. But it may be worth being open to different approaches.

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Is It Time to Retire? 6 Signs Say Maybe

More than 4 million Americans will turn 65 this year. For those on the fence about whether it’s the right time to retire, Kiplinger outlined six factors to help you decide. These range from emotional readiness to conversations with your spouse and confidence in your healthcare plan.

This piece is less about numbers and more about mindset and planning.

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The Longevity Economy Is Booming

By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be over 65. MIT’s Age Lab calls this the rise of the “longevity economy,” and identifies new opportunities in tech, transportation, healthcare, and even fashion aimed at older adults. The team also says more retirees will work part-time in the gig economy or pursue micro-credentials to stay engaged and financially active.

As demographics shift, so do the markets. This may shape both consumer trends and portfolio decisions in years to come.

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Financial Literacy Is Declining

A new Wharton study found that financial literacy among older adults declines roughly 1% per year. That might not sound like much, but over time, it can lead to poor decisions, weakened financial positions, and increased susceptibility to scams.

Women, who tend to live longer and retire with less, may be especially affected. Some fintech companies are now focusing on tools and education to help bridge these gaps.

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🥒 Pickle Tip:

As financial choices get more complex, literacy becomes a form of resilience. It’s not about knowing everything — it’s about knowing where to look, and who to ask.

🌟 Final Thought

Retirement planning doesn’t happen in isolation — it takes place against a backdrop of shifting markets, policies, and priorities. If any of these trends have you rethinking your own strategy, a quick conversation with an advisor in the Money Pickle network could help you make sense of what’s changing — and what it might mean for your future.

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