U.S. Defined Contribution Distribution 2026

Cerulli Associates. (October 2026). U.S. defined contribution distribution 2026. https://www.cerulli.com/reports/us-defined-contribution-distribution-2026

• Cerulli Associates' annual U.S. Defined Contribution Distribution report covers product development and distribution opportunities for asset managers and other DC market providers, including 401(k) plan sizing, retirement plan intermediaries, and the advisor-sold DC market.

• The report focuses on in-plan retirement income solutions, private market opportunities within DC plans, the growth of collective investment trusts, and stronger intermediary engagement and support for education and advice.

• According to the report, 46% of pre-retirees want the ability to withdraw money when needed and 39% want guaranteed monthly income.

• Nearly 40% of respondents want a personalized, detailed, and actionable retirement plan.

• DC consultants told Cerulli that the average plan may need two or three retirement income options.

• Chris Bailey, a director in Cerulli's Retirement practice, states that improving retirement income outcomes for 401(k) plan participants will take more than investment options.

• The report finds that adoption requires participant advice and planning, education for plan sponsors and intermediaries, and recordkeeper infrastructure that supports retirement income solutions and personalized withdrawal strategies.

Knote: While everyone is focusing on "The Generational Wealth Transfer" they are overlooking the bigger opportunity, in my opinion. There is a tidal wave of people retiring in the next 5 years and they tend to liquidate and invest their (1) 401k, (2) family business, (3) house, (4) and all the other things that don't produce income.