Bridging the Retirement Gap: Global Atlantic Survey Unveils Surprising Differences in Priorities Between Financial Advisors and Their Clients
- Nearly nine out of 10 investors - but only two-thirds of advisors - prioritize investments that provide steady income stream in retirement
- Over 80% of investors - but less than 50% of advisors - view guaranteed income in retirement in addition to pensions and/or Social Security as important
- Findings highlight an opportunity for financial professionals to more deeply engage with their clients
A new survey from Global Atlantic Financial Group ("Global Atlantic") reveals an opportunity for financial professionals to get even more aligned with their customer regarding what matters most to them related to retirement income priorities and investment protection strategies. For example, 88% of investors, but only 66% of advisors, prioritize investments for retirement that provide a steady income stream. Similarly, over eight in 10 investors (83%) view guaranteed income beyond pensions or Social Security as important, while less than half of advisors (46%) emphasize this need.
Global Atlantic's 2025 Retirement Outlook Survey of financial professionals and retirement-age investors also highlights key areas of alignment, including common concerns about the impact rising healthcare costs and inflation will have on retirement spending power. The national survey includes responses from 514 financial advisors and 1,009 investors ages 55 to 75 with $250,000 to $2,000,000 in investable assets.
The study reveals an opening for financial professionals to deepen their client relationships as investors navigate the "Fragile Decade"—the last five working years and the first five years of retirement. Add on the challenges presented by the current market instability and its potential impact on retirement savings, and the need to address these differing opinions is more pronounced now than ever.
"The gap between what consumers truly value and where financial professionals are currently focused presents a powerful opportunity," said Jason Bickler, Co-Head of Individual Markets at Global Atlantic. "The insights from our survey reveal a clear chance for financial professionals to spend more time with their clients and understand their financial goals. By asking additional questions, financial professionals can build portfolios that reflect what many clients value most- which is steady, guaranteed income, and lifetime security."
Other key survey findings include:
- 88% of investors prioritize investments that provide a stable rate of return in retirement versus 57% of advisors.
- 86% of investors value protection of initial investment (principal protection) versus only 52% of advisors.
- 80% of investors emphasize protecting investments to limit downside risk versus 55% of financial professionals.
- 75% of investors report discussing protection strategies with their advisor, but only 54% feel adequately protected from market downturns.
The survey also highlights a top priority for many investors, with 65% saying creating or utilizing a plan that provides income for life is a financial priority, while 56% prioritize protecting assets over growth. Despite this focus, only 46% of investors have spoken with their financial professional about annuities, which can offer stability and guaranteed income.
"These survey findings underscore just how crucial it is to have real, meaningful conversations about retirement and income security, especially in today's uncertain economy," said Emily LeMay, Co-Head of Individual Markets at Global Atlantic. "Consumers are often looking for predictability and protection, and these survey results point to a strong opportunity for financial professionals to reinforce those priorities with strategies and solutions that deliver guaranteed income."
You can read more details about the Global Atlantic 2025 Retirement Outlook Survey here:
Global Atlantic 2025 Retirement Outlook Survey- Getting Better Connected
Survey Methodology
The nationwide Global Atlantic 2025 Retirement Outlook Survey was conducted online by Artemis Strategy Group from December 6 to December 26, 2024. Respondents included 1,009 investors with $250K to $2M in investable assets, ages 55 to 75 who work with a financial professional, and 514 financial advisors. Among advisors, 40% were Registered Investment Advisors or Investment Advisor Reps, 40% were independent broker-dealers, and 20% were national wirehouse, full-service broker-dealers, or regional broker-dealers. Investor data is weighted on region and by age group based on certain demographic factors to reflect the population ages 55 to 75 with $250,000 to $1,999,999 in savings or investments based on the Federal Reserve 2021 Survey of Household Economics and Decision-making (SHED). Financial advisor data is not weighted.
About Global Atlantic
Global Atlantic Financial Group is a leading insurance company meeting the retirement and life insurance needs of individuals and institutions. With a strong financial foundation and risk and investment management expertise, the company delivers tailored solutions to create more secure financial futures. The company's performance has been driven by its culture and core values focused on integrity, teamwork, and the importance of building long-term client relationships. Global Atlantic is a wholly-owned subsidiary of KKR, a leading global investment firm. Through its relationship, the company leverages KKR's investment capabilities, scale and access to capital markets to enhance the value it offers clients. KKR's parent company is KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE:KKR).
Global Atlantic Financial Group (Global Atlantic) is the marketing name for The Global Atlantic Financial Group LLC and its subsidiaries, including Forethought Life Insurance Company and Accordia Life and Annuity Company. Each subsidiary is responsible for its own financial and contractual obligations. These subsidiaries are not authorized to do business in New York.
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