Inflation – Back to the Future

April 21, 2014

phil

Investing Insight, News

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Inflation sometimes seems like one of those afflictions of an era long since passed into the history books. While it’s true that double-digit inflation has been absent for the last 30 years, you may remember the high inflation years of the 1970s.¹Will the levels of U.S. public debt and loose monetary policy revive the inflation rates of yesteryear? No one really knows. However one thing is certain—even low inflation rates over an extended period of time can impact your finances in retirement.A simple example will illustrate.An income of $50,000 today at an inflation rate of 3% would have a purchasing power of just over $32,000 in year 15—a 35% erosion. Said differently, to maintain the desired lifestyle that a $50,000 income would provide requires $77,900 of income after 15 years of 3% inflation.²Here’s something else to consider. Retirees may be subject to a higher rate of inflation than “the headline” Consumer Price Index. Why might this be the case?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the retiree’s share of expenditures on medical care is roughly double that of the general population. Moreover, health care inflation has annually outstripped, on average, non-medical inflation rate by 2.3 percentage points during the period 1983-2011.³

Inflation is a thief; it steals the purchasing power of your retirement savings. But like your other possessions, there are strategies that may help you from being robbed of your purchasing power.

  1. The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, June 2013.
  2. This is a hypothetical example used for illustrative purposes only. It is not representative of any specific investment or combination of investments.
  3. Bureau of Labor Statistics, June 2013

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2014 FMG Suite.

Post by Phil Ratcliff

Phil Ratcliff, President of rebel Financial, is a senior financial advisor that holds an AIF®, CFP®, ChFC®, and CLU® certifications. He started his career at American Express Financial Advisors in 2003, then moved to AXA Advisors for 7 years before founding rebel Financial LLC in 2013.