{
  "id": 16745097,
  "title": "‘The real generation gap is about expectations’: What happens to retirement if we live to 130?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/27/the-real-generation-gap-is-about-expectations-what-happens-to",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-27T12:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Fortune",
    "slug": "fortune",
    "url": "https://fortune.com/2026/10/27/great-wealth-transfer-retirement-longevity-boomers-millennials-gen-z-john-hancock-mit/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The traditional narrative surrounding the \"Great Wealth Transfer\" from Baby Boomers to younger generations often assumes a straightforward timeline, with Boomers handing down their accumulated wealth to their children. However, longevity expert Joe Coughlin, founder of MIT's AgeLab, argues that the size and timing of this transfer are far more complex and uncertain. Estimates of the wealth being transferred range widely, from $36 trillion to $124 trillion. While some predictions suggest people may live up to 130 years old by 2100, experts question how societies plan for these longer life spans. The current retirement age of 65, established when average life expectancy was around 47, may be outdated. Longer lifespans stretch out the retirement process, potentially over a period of decades. In the United States, a national benchmark called the Longevity Preparedness Index (LPI) gauges how ready adults are to live longer lives. However, Americans score only a 60 out of 100, indicating significant gaps in readiness, particularly in care. Coughlin emphasizes that the real generational gap isn't just about wealth, but also about evolving expectations and the need to redefine what retirement means in an era of increased longevity. He suggests that each generation may have different expectations based on technological advancements and societal changes, potentially leading to new life stages and challenges for both the older and younger generations.",
  "summary": "The MIT AgeLab's Joe Coughlin isn't sold on the Great Wealth Transfer. \"For all the kids waiting for that great check in the sky, don’t hold your breath.”",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}