Retirement Wealth Shock Millions Hidden
Economy / Finance

Retirement Wealth Shock Millions Hidden

A new study released by the Institute for Economic Research (IW) highlights a significant correlation between age and household wealth in Germany. The research, published Wednesday, reveals a median net household wealth of €103,100 in 2023, signifying the midpoint where half of all households possess more assets and half possess less.

The wealthiest 10% of German households held assets exceeding €777,200. The study underscores a clear trend: wealth accumulation is heavily influenced by age. Households headed by individuals under the age of 35 exhibited a considerably lower median net wealth of just €17,300.

In stark contrast, individuals aged 55 to 64 demonstrated the highest median net wealth at €241,100 – a figure unmatched by any other age group. This difference reflects the protracted nature of wealth building, typically spanning an entire working life. Even among those aged 75 or older, a substantial median wealth of €172,500 remained. The research suggests that the accumulation period frequently precedes a gradual depletion of assets during retirement.