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	Increasing Holding Period Decreases Variability of Returns This chart shows how indexes that represented stock and bond performance behaved on average during various periods of time from January 1, 1926, through March 31, 2025. Based on these averages, returns were much less variable for longer holding periods than for shorter periods.
	Contributing Early Helps Investment Results Investing a smaller dollar amount over a longer time horizon could have a greater impact on the eventual investment result than investing a larger amount over a shorter period. Consider the values that could be achieved at age 65 by a 25-year-old who invested $75 a month and a 35-year-old who invested $100 a month, both earning the same rates of return. By starting to save earlier, the 25-year-old could have been able to accumulate more savings at age 65 despite investing less each period.
	A 1% Difference in Contribution Rates Can Make a Big Difference This chart shows how a 1% difference in the rate of contributions could affect savings results over time. Consider the cases of two individuals, each earning $35,000 per year. Investor A contributes 4% of monthly earnings at the start of each month for 30 years; Investor B, 5% under the same terms. Both earn the same return, 6% per year compounded monthly. At the end of 30 years, Investor B could have $29,445 more than Investor A, even though Investor B's added contribution was only $10,500.
	Retirement Savings: A Little Extra Could Make a Big Difference How much you contribute to your retirement savings plan today can make a big difference in how much you have when you're ready to retire. Just upping your contribution from 4% to 6% could add close to $59,000 to your nest egg over 30 years, assuming a $35,000 salary, a 6% annual rate of return, monthly contributions, and tax deferral on contributions and earnings until retirement.