J.P. Morgan Bolsters Retirement Research Amid Shifting Demographics

Event summary

  • J.P. Morgan Asset Management hired Pam Hess as Executive Director and Retirement Strategist, effective immediately.
  • Hess previously led research at the Defined Contribution Institutional Investment Association (DCIIA) Retirement Research Center.
  • She brings over 20 years of experience in retirement research, strategic planning, and program management.
  • J.P. Morgan Asset Management manages $4.2 trillion in assets as of December 31, 2025.
  • The hire supports J.P. Morgan's Retirement Insights program, which provides research and analysis to financial professionals and plan sponsors.

The big picture

J.P. Morgan Asset Management's move to hire Pam Hess underscores the growing importance of behavioral finance and personalized retirement planning in a market facing demographic shifts and increased regulatory scrutiny. The firm's substantial AUM positions it to leverage this expertise to attract and retain clients seeking sophisticated retirement solutions, but the ability to translate research into tangible value will be critical for success. This signals a broader trend among asset managers to move beyond traditional investment performance and offer more holistic retirement planning services.

What we're watching

Research Focus
Hess's expertise in participant behavior and household financial wellness suggests J.P. Morgan will deepen its analysis of evolving retirement needs beyond traditional investment strategies.
Competitive Landscape
The increased investment in retirement research signals a heightened competitive battle for market share among asset managers catering to plan sponsors and individual investors.
Product Integration
The success of this hire will depend on how effectively J.P. Morgan integrates Hess's research into actionable investment products and client solutions, rather than remaining purely academic.