Is Your 401(k) Enough? Why Smart Retirees Are Looking Beyond Wall Street

The 401k is just the Start

For years, the 401(k) has been considered the cornerstone of retirement savings. But if you’ve been watching the markets lately, you’ve probably noticed something unsettling—your hard-earned savings can shrink just as quickly as they grow.

According to Fidelity, the average 401(k) balance dropped nearly 20% during recent market downturns. That’s a huge setback, especially for those nearing retirement. The truth is, a 401(k) on its own may no longer be enough to guarantee long-term financial security.

That’s why more Americans are diversifying their retirement plans—and one of the smartest tools they’re adding?

Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs).

What Is a Fixed Indexed Annuity?

A Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA) is a financial product designed to help you grow your money while protecting it from market losses. It’s not a stock, mutual fund, or savings account—it’s a hybrid tool that offers the best of multiple worlds:

• Market-linked growth (with no direct exposure to market losses)

• Tax-deferred earnings

• Optional lifetime income

• Principal protection

In short, it’s a solution that prioritizes security and consistency—and that’s exactly what most retirees need.

Key Highlights: Why FIAs Belong in a Smart Retirement Plan

1. Principal Protection

Your money is shielded from market downturns. If the market drops, your FIA doesn’t. That peace of mind is priceless for anyone nearing or already in retirement.

2. Guaranteed Lifetime Income

Think of an FIA as your personal pension. You can structure it to pay you guaranteed income every month for the rest of your life. That’s a promise no stock fund can make.

3. Ideal for Those Who’ve Already Built Wealth

FIAs aren’t meant for beginners—they’re best suited for people who’ve already accumulated assets and now want to preserve what they’ve worked so hard to earn. It’s about locking in gains and protecting your legacy.

4. Rates Change—Act While They’re High

Fixed Indexed Annuity crediting rates change with the economy. Right now, they’re higher than they’ve been in years. Locking in a policy now means you’ll benefit from better returns and income guarantees for years to come.

5. Fits Into a Broader Financial Strategy

FIAs don’t replace real estate, 401(k)s, or brokerage accounts—they complement them. They add protection, stability, and predictable income, making your overall plan more resilient.

Take Control of Your Retirement Strategy

If you’re someone who values security, predictability, and long-term planning, a Fixed Indexed Annuity might be the missing piece in your retirement puzzle.

And if you’re thinking about making a move while rates are favorable, now is the time to speak with a licensed expert.

We recommend Milagros Almirante—a licensed financial professional who serves clients across the United States. She specializes in helping people just like you design retirement strategies that offer peace of mind and long-term protection.

Final Thoughts

Your 401(k) worked hard to get you this far. But now it’s time to protect what you’ve earned, diversify wisely, and create a plan that won’t let you down when the market does.

You don’t have to go it alone.