Today, I’m sharing 7 of my favorite investing & economic charts from the past month.

These charts cover topics such as:

• Life expectancy misconceptions
• Retirement spending patterns
• Social Security... and more!

Let's dive in. 👇

7 Favorite Investing Charts (June 2025)

#1 – You're (Probably) Going to Live Longer Than You Think

Most people estimate their life expectancy to be somewhere in their 80s, and statistically, they're right.

However, retirement planning needs to go beyond the averages for two key reasons:

• Joint life expectancy (how long at least one spouse will live) is typically much longer.
• Your lifestyle choices (higher education level, healthier diet, regular exercise, etc.) likely place you above the average.

In fact, there's roughly a 75% chance that at least one spouse will live until age 90, and a 43% chance of reaching age 95.

Planning conservatively for a longer lifespan helps ensure you won't outlive your resources.

#2 – Retirement Might Arrive Earlier Than You Expect

Approximately 70% of workers intend to retire at or beyond age 65. However, many find retirement arriving earlier than planned due to unexpected reasons: layoffs, health problems, caregiving responsibilities, and more.

While retiring on your own terms is ideal, preparing financially for unforeseen circumstances is essential.

#3 – The Three Phases of Retirement Spending

Retirement spending often follows three distinct phases:

1. Go-Go Years: High activity, frequent travel, higher expenses.
2. Slow-Go Years: Reduced activity and less travel, resulting in moderate spending.
3. No-Go Years: Minimal activity, significantly lower spending.

Housing consistently remains the largest expense throughout retirement, highlighting an opportunity to manage housing costs strategically for greater financial flexibility.

#4 – The Value of Guaranteed Income

Retirees often fear overspending—especially early in retirement—causing them to forgo activities they genuinely enjoy.

Research indicates that a foundation of guaranteed income (e.g., Social Security, pensions, etc.) significantly reduces spending anxiety.

While most successful retirees are better off skipping expensive annuities, some might consider a low-cost policy if it increases retirement confidence or mitigates longevity risk.

#5 – The Importance of Near-Term Liquidity

Although equity-heavy portfolios have historically performed well, short-term market volatility is inevitable.

Setting aside sufficient cash or short-term assets to meet immediate needs creates the conditions necessary for patience during turbulent markets, leading to better long-term investment decisions.

#6 – Social Security: A Critical Long-Term Decision

Recent negative headlines have led more people to claim Social Security benefits early, often to their detriment.

While claiming early may suit specific situations, the typical break-even point for delaying benefits is around age 81—an age many retirees surpass in good health.

Your claiming strategy should be driven by thoughtful analysis rather than emotion.

#7 – Planning for Long-Term Care

The Department of Health and Human Services estimates 56% of Americans turning 65 will require long-term care services. Despite this high probability, many people overlook planning for this significant retirement expense. If your plan involves family or friends providing care, ensure everyone is aware, willing, and prepared to support this decision.

***

These charts provide clear visual evidence supporting thoughtful retirement strategies and informed financial decisions.

For deeper insights, I highly recommend exploring the entire J.P. Morgan Guide to Retirement.

If you have any questions as you explore these resources, please don't hesitate to reach out.

📚 What I've Been Reading

• Just Because You Can DIY Your Finances, Doesn't Mean You Should (The Joint Account)
• How Social Security Spousal Benefits May Change My Claim Date (Retirement Manifesto)
• 6 Options for Funding Long-Term Care (Morningstar)
• Why Financial Independence is Overrated (Of Dollars and Data)
• Steps to Take If You Just Got Laid Off (NPR)
• How Extreme Couponing Lost Its Luster (WSJ)
• How You Breathe Is Like a Fingerprint That Can Identify You (Nature)
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Thanks for reading! Make it a great holiday weekend.

Stay wealthy,

Taylor Schulte, CFP®