Every group retirement professional grapples with the same fundamental questions: Are our plans effective at helping members build wealth? Which design features create the best outcomes? How do members respond when markets turn volatile?
Sun Life's Designed for Savings 2025 dives deep into these questions and delivers the insights you need.
This is Canada's largest group retirement analysis, covering 1.5 million participants and $140+ billion in assets—data unavailable anywhere else. From growth rates and behavioural patterns to how members navigated market uncertainty in early 2025, plus breakthrough findings on the measurable power of financial advice.
Despite economic headwinds, combined contributions climbed 6% to $9,670 average since 2022, with members contributing $5,120 and sponsors adding $4,550 on average.
Target date funds share of assets grew from 29% in 2018 to 42% in 2024 and now capture 52% of new contributions. Their appeal lies in delivering professional portfolio management and automated age-appropriate risk adjustment in a single, simple decision for plan members.
Q1 2025's market volatility tested member resolve and demonstrated their discipline. A small percentage of members with large balances reduced their risk exposure, while the vast majority maintained plan participation and avoided emotional withdrawals. Group plan structure encourages long-term thinking over short-term reactions.
Outcomes from Sun Life's 360 Plan Advice and Sun Life One Plan show how members who engage with advisors are 70% more likely to take a positive financial action.