After making a bunch of gloom-and-doom predictions about the markets in 2019, with fears of a pending recession, Wall Street money managers have a considerably more brightened outlook for 2020. Indeed, recent indicators have heightened expectations for U.S. economic growth this year.
For example, the Conference Board is predicting a 2.1% rise in the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020, commenting, “We believe the worst of the slowdown is behind us.” 1 The real estate market also is showing promise: Demand for homes is up, fueling growth in new construction, which could boost home prices. 2
The markets appear to be agreeing with these forecasts, with the Dow and the S&P 500 starting the new year with strong performances. Some managers are projecting that the long-running bull market could take stock prices even higher this year.3
With this in mind, don’t forget to take advantage of increased retirement contribution limits for 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, most 457 plans, Thrift Savings Plans, profit-sharing plans and cash balance pension plans this year — up by another $500 to $19,500. For people over age 50, the catch-up contribution for their 401(k) plans also increased by $500, which means you can save up to $26,000 in your employer plan.4
Remember, too, that if you continue to work past traditional retirement age, new legislation is designed to help you save and invest longer. The new SECURE Act, passed at the end of last year, delays the age to start drawing required minimum distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts from 70 ½ to 72 for those who turn 70 ½ after 2019. Also, you may continue contributing to a traditional IRA as long as you earn income, as the age cap has been eliminated.5
These new changes could play a role in determining when you want to set your retirement date. Some people who don’t need the money may want to keep earning a paycheck, even on a part-time basis, just to keep contributing to their investments. Also, if you delay starting Social Security benefits until age 70, you can just about double the amount you draw compared to starting them when you’re first eligible (age 62).6 If you’d like to assess retirement planning strategies for this year, we’d be happy to discuss your portfolio and financial strategy with you.
Content prepared by Kara Stefan Communications.
1 The Conference Board. Jan. 8, 2020. “The Conference Board Economic Forecast for the U.S. Economy.” https://www.conference-board.org/data/usforecast.cfm. Accessed Jan. 29, 2020.
2 Michelle Meyer. Bank of America Global Research. Nov. 22, 2019. “U.S. Economic Forecast: Clouds, Sunshine or Showers?” https://mlaem.fs.ml.com/content/dam/ML/pdfs/Transcript_Meyer_Outlook_2020.pdf. Accessed Jan. 17, 2020.
3 Knowledge@Wharton. Jan. 7, 2020. “What Investors Need to Watch for in 2020.” https://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article/what-investors-need-to-watch-for-in-2020/. Accessed Jan. 17, 2020.
4 David Rae. Forbes. Nov. 20, 2019. “Great News From The IRS For Retirement Savers.” https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidrae/2019/11/20/irs-retirement-savers/#7aa47397384a. Accessed Jan. 29, 2020.
5 Roger Young. T. Rowe Price. Dec. 24, 2019. “The SECURE Act: What Investors Need to Know.” https://www.troweprice.com/personal-investing/planning-and-research/t-rowe-price-insights/retirement-and-planning/retirement-planning/the-secure-act–what-investors-need-to-know.html. Accessed Jan. 17, 2020.
6 Judith Ward. T. Rowe Price. Jan. 7, 2020. “2020 Key Financial Numbers.” https://www.troweprice.com/personal-investing/planning-and-research/t-rowe-price-insights/retirement-and-planning/personal-finance/key-financial-numbers.html. Accessed Jan. 17, 2020.
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