Total Defined Contribution Pension Entitlements Held by the Top 0.1% (99.9th to 100th Wealth Percentiles)
WFRBLDCP999T100 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
133,178.00
Year-over-Year Change
10.23%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the total defined contribution pension entitlements held by the top 0.1% of U.S. households by wealth. It provides insights into the retirement wealth distribution and retirement security of the highest-wealth Americans.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
Defined contribution pension plans, such as 401(k)s, are a key component of retirement savings for many U.S. households. This data series tracks the total value of these pension assets held by the wealthiest 0.1% of the population, offering a view into wealth concentration at the top.
Methodology
The data is collected through the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.
Historical Context
This metric is used by policymakers and analysts to understand trends in retirement wealth inequality.
Key Facts
- The top 0.1% of households held over $7 trillion in defined contribution pension assets in 2019.
- Pension wealth is highly concentrated, with the top 0.1% holding 38% of total U.S. defined contribution pension assets.
- Retirement wealth inequality has increased over time, with the top 0.1% share rising from 34% in 1989 to 38% in 2019.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the total defined contribution pension entitlements held by the top 0.1% of U.S. households by wealth, providing insights into retirement wealth concentration at the very top of the wealth distribution.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is relevant for understanding trends in retirement wealth inequality and assessing the retirement security of high-wealth Americans.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to monitor developments in retirement wealth inequality and inform discussions around policies related to retirement security and wealth distribution.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is updated every three years with the release of the Survey of Consumer Finances, so there may be a multi-year delay in the most recent information.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Total Defined Contribution Pension Entitlements Held by the Top 0.1% (99.9th to 100th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBLDCP999T100), retrieved from FRED.