Retirement planning continues to change. From how we get financial advice to where we invest, the ground beneath our feet is shifting. For retirees in Springfield and beyond, staying ahead of these changes takes an understanding of what can shape the future of your finances and knowing where to turn for clarity and confidence. Let’s unpack the major trends to keep on your radar—and what they could mean for your retirement strategy.
The Rise of Mutual Funds (and the Decline of Bonds)
With economic uncertainty still in the air, more investors are looking for balance and long-term growth. According to RFI Global, 41% of U.S. households now say they’re concerned about bonds—up from 33% just two years ago. That shift is driving renewed interest in mutual funds.
Nearly 1 in 5 households plan to invest in mutual funds in 2026, and many are doing so for the first time. Mutual funds can offer diversified exposure and a lower barrier to entry than individual stocks or complex ETFs. For Springfield retirees seeking more stability without abandoning growth, this trend offers a compelling path forward.
Advice Is No Longer Optional
Today, 56% of U.S. households now actively seek financial advice—up from 40% in 2022. That’s the highest demand since the 2008 crisis.
Today’s investors expect more from their advisors. Empathy, proactivity, and responsiveness matter just as much as technical expertise. At LaTour Asset Management of Springfield, we’ve long understood that retirement success hinges on clear, personal guidance—not just numbers on a spreadsheet.
Mobile Isn’t Just for Millennials Anymore
Mobile apps are now the most-used channel for financial interactions. 77% of U.S. households use a mobile app to manage their finances each month, and in 2026, mobile is expected to become the top platform for investing, too.
What does this mean for retirees? If you’re not comfortable using digital tools—or if your current provider’s platform feels clunky—it might be time to explore options that make account monitoring and communication easier.
Social Media Is Driving Real Decisions
Once dismissed, platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and even Reddit are now influencing financial decisions. In fact, 44% of households use social media to explore financial content—a dramatic jump from 28% just two years ago.
This doesn’t mean social media is your new retirement helper. But it does mean your friends, adult children, or even your CPA may be absorbing financial narratives shaped by social feeds. Understanding this cultural shift can help you spot both opportunity and misinformation.
You Deserve a Trusted Partner
2026 will bring change—that’s a certainty. But you don’t have to navigate it alone. At LaTour Asset Management of Springfield, our advisors can help you build a plan that works for your life. Call us today at (877) 888-5724 to schedule a conversation and let us begin to help build your retirement strategy.
