North American Retirement Security Slips as Inflation and Debt Weigh on U.S. and Canada
Event summary
- U.S. and Canada dropped to 24th and 21st respectively in Natixis IM’s 2026 Global Retirement Index due to financial pressures.
- Sticky inflation and rising public debt dragged down Finances in Retirement scores for both countries.
- 35% of North American advisors cite underestimating inflation as the top retirement security risk.
- 80% of U.S. investors believe they must fund their own retirement due to declining government support.
- Healthcare costs are a growing concern, with 35% of U.S. investors fearing they’ll run out of money covering medical expenses.
The big picture
The decline in North American retirement security rankings reflects broader economic challenges, including inflation and public debt, which are reshaping how individuals and advisors approach retirement planning. With $1.5 trillion in assets under management, Natixis IM’s findings highlight the growing need for active planning and professional guidance in an increasingly uncertain financial landscape. The shift towards self-funded retirement underscores the strategic importance of diversified investment strategies and long-term financial planning.
What we're watching
- Inflation Dynamics
- How persistent inflation will continue to impact retirement savings and financial planning strategies.
- Government Support
- Whether recent U.S. policy measures like SECURE 2.0 and 530A accounts can restore investor confidence in public retirement benefits.
- Healthcare Costs
- The pace at which rising healthcare expenses will drive retirement migration among Americans seeking lower-cost options abroad.