Is it time to ditch 401k plans and focus on alternative sources of income?

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In summary, the article argues that 401ks are not scams and can be a wise investment for retirement. The author believes that the arguments against 401ks are weak and that people should focus on diversifying their income streams and investing in themselves through education and learning from successful investors.
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IMO the article is a scam. There are good and bad plans like any investment. How you invest in your youth is completely different than what's wise near retirement if you plan to really retire from something you love.
 
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I think the author's arguments against 401ks are weak. Even worse are his suggestions for alternatives to retirement accounts:

The average multi-millionaire, according to tax data, has at least 7 different sources of income.

You can keep your job. But think about how to make money on side jobs. It doesn't have to be tomorrow. Just think about it and start coming up with ideas.

Or take a job where you (sic) financial success is more in tune with the financial success of the company.

With industry being outsourced and knowledge being outsourced, the best investment is in yourself.

This might mean take courses that you can later monetize (photography, wordpress development, copywriting, freelance writing, etc).

Or it might mean studying investments. The best investors are usually the top hedge fund managers. Study their investments. Copy what they do (but don't invest in them. Ugh!).
 
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1. Are 401k plans a scam?

No, 401k plans are not a scam. They are a legitimate retirement savings vehicle that is widely used by many employees in the United States.

2. How do 401k plans work?

401k plans are employer-sponsored retirement savings plans that allow employees to contribute a portion of their salary into a tax-deferred investment account. Employers may also match a percentage of the employee's contributions.

3. Are there any risks involved with 401k plans?

Like any investment, there are potential risks involved with 401k plans. The value of the investments within the plan can fluctuate based on market conditions. However, diversifying investments and regularly reviewing and adjusting the plan can help mitigate these risks.

4. Can I lose all my money in a 401k plan?

In most cases, it is unlikely to lose all of your money in a 401k plan. The plan is typically invested in a variety of assets, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, which can help minimize the risk of losing all your money.

5. Are there any alternative retirement savings options to 401k plans?

Yes, there are other retirement savings options available, such as Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and Roth IRAs. These plans have different tax implications and contribution limits, so it is important to research and compare options to determine the best fit for your individual financial situation.

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