Earn CE: 2025 Defined Contribution Consultant Study
Learn about the latest views of DC consultants and advisors while you earn CE
November 2025, In the spotlight
Overview
T. Rowe Price conducted its fifth annual Defined Contribution Consultant Study to capture current views and insights from the defined contribution (DC) consultant and advisor community on a wide range of retirement topics.
- Consistent with prior years, the study identifies key findings related to target date solutions, retirement income, managed accounts, fixed income and capital preservation investments, and financial wellness programs.
- New in 2025, the study explores how consultants are embracing artificial intelligence (AI); implementation expectations for private assets; and components of financial wellness solutions, including student debt and emergency savings programs.
- Participating in the 2025 study were 36 of the leading consultant and advisor firms (81% consultant, 19% advisor)1 representing nearly $9 trillion in assets under advisement (AUA).2 Respondent firms’ AUA reflects over 70% of the $12.5 trillion DC plan market.3
- The study was fielded January 13–March 10, 2025.
For financial professionals only, to earn CE Credit,4 watch the videos in full below, read the research papers, and complete the accompanying quiz.
What’s next for target date solutions?
Consultants and advisors see target date solutions as key for DC plan innovation, with interest in blend strategies, private assets, and retirement income features.
Managed accounts evolve to meet DC plan needs
The landscape is changing for managed accounts and dynamic QDIAs in DC retirement plans as the demand for personalization grows.
Trends in retirement income and financial wellness
Consultants and advisors see target date solutions as key for DC plan innovation, with interest in blend strategies, private assets, and retirement income features.
2025 Defined Contribution Consultant Study
Five must-ask questions about private assets in DC plans
1Respondent firms are asked to self-identify their firm type.
2Assets under advisement figures are self-reported.
3Source: ICI, as of December 31, 2024.
4 Each of these courses is available for one hour of CE credit (CFP, CIMA). To receive CE credit, you must view the full video and take the quiz. You must watch the video above in full, answer all of the questions, and receive a score of 70% or better. CE credit is available only for U.S.-based webinar registrants. Please allow up to 10 days to receive your credit.
Important Information
This material is being furnished for general informational and/or marketing purposes only. The material does not constitute or undertake to give advice of any nature, including fiduciary investment advice. Prospective investors are recommended to seek independent legal, financial and tax advice before making any investment decision. T. Rowe Price group of companies including T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and/or its affiliates receive revenue from T. Rowe Price investment products and services.
Past performance is no guarantee or reliable indicator of future results. The value of an investment and any income from it can go down as well as up. Investors may get back less than the amount invested.
The material does not constitute a distribution, an offer, an invitation, a personal or general recommendation or solicitation to sell or buy any securities in any jurisdiction or to conduct any particular investment activity. The material has not been reviewed by any regulatory authority in any jurisdiction.
Information and opinions presented have been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness. There is no guarantee that any forecasts made will come to pass. The views contained herein are as of the date noted on the material and are subject to change without notice; these views may differ from those of other T. Rowe Price group companies and/or associates. Under no circumstances should the material, in whole or in part, be copied or redistributed without consent from T. Rowe Price.
The material is not intended for use by persons in jurisdictions which prohibit or restrict the distribution of the material and in certain countries the material is provided upon specific request.
T. Rowe Price Investment Services, Inc., distributor, and T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., investment adviser.
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