04.28.26
The Gap Between Policy Awareness and Investor Conversations
by: Ayo Mseka
A survey from Jackson National Life Insurance highlights a growing disconnect between investors’ concerns about government policy changes and the retirement planning discussions they are having with financial professionals. Many investors expect major shifts, including cuts to Medicaid and Social Security benefits, higher Medicare costs and potential tax increases, yet these risks are not consistently addressed in advisory conversations. The study, conducted with the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, found that nearly one in five pre-retirees has already delayed retirement due to uncertainty about government programs and financial security. Gen X investors report higher anxiety and greater expected personal impact from policy changes than baby boomers, and are more likely to use downside-protection products. However, only a minority of advisor-client relationships include discussions about topics like Medicaid or long-term care funding. The report suggests advisors can close this gap by using clearer, nonpolitical conversations and scenario-based planning to help clients understand potential impacts.
Read the full article on Insurance News Net