Research & Insights

Individuals & Families

• MassMutual's 2011 Retirement Plan Participant Study
  Highlights from a 2011 survey of American workers who are eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan -- and some of the important differences between men and women regarding retirement issues.
• The 2010 MassMutual Single Premium Immediate Annuity (SPIA) Synergy Study
  As thousands of Baby Boomers per week move into retirement, the retirement income challenge has become a reality. Today’s wave of retirees must have effective distribution strategies that can maintain income over longer lifetimes and through more volatile markets. This study analyzes new planning approaches and strategies that combine SPIAs with other techniques to create retirement income synergies.
• State of the American Family (PDF)
  An in-depth series of research studies is exploring the changing definitions and dynamics of families in this country. The initial study from this new series, Families, Financial Attitudes & Planning, focuses on families and finance.
• Inside our Multicultural Mosaic (PDF)
  Between 2007 and 2009, MassMutual conducted primary research in communities around the U.S. from African American, Asian Indian, Chinese American, Korean American and Hispanic groups to gather information and insights about each of these communities. Findings provide valuable cultural understanding into the importance of family, acculturation and financial literacy.
• Easter Seals Living with Autism Study (PDF)
  Understanding what it means to live with autism. This overview of key findings highlights some primary issues that families are facing and focuses on the many challenges related to life care planning.
• Easter Seals Living with Disabilities Study
  This study provides insight into the lives of individuals with disabilities and the everyday challenges their families face.
• Retirement Revolution: The New Reality^®
  A PBS documentary, sponsored by MassMutual, designed to help viewers navigate the current recession - offering solid advice, opinions and insight about money, health and Medicare from a host of economists and financial planning experts.

Businesses & Organizations

• The American College and MassMutual's Employer Perspectives on Disability Benefits Study
  This research study looks into what employers are offering in group long term disability plans, including plan design, eligibility, gaps and shortfalls -- particularly for executives.
• University of Houston Study: Hispanic Business Owners (PDF)
  An overview of key findings on the state of Houston Hispanic business owners’ fiscal fitness.
• MassMutual FamilyPreneurship^SM Study (PDF)
  This proprietary research study identifies the key success factors for family-owned businesses.
• MassMutual Business Owner Perspectives Study
  The study focuses on the key financial concerns faced by business owners regarding both their business and personal planning. Information is provided on findings related to general population and multicultural business owners.
• The New World of 403(b) Retirement Plans - White Paper (PDF)
  A guide to best practices for plan fiduciaries. This paper provides an overview of three important areas of the law affecting 403(b) plans - Fiduciary Duties, Form 5500 Reporting and Audit Requirements, and Final IRS Regulations.