More workers are raiding their 401(k)s as average balances fall, Fidelity says

AI Summary

Fidelity reports that retirement account balances in the U.S. fell at the start of 2026 due to market volatility, while more workers accessed their 401(k) savings for cash. This trend highlights growing financial insecurity among American savers amid economic fluctuations.

Retirement account balances sank at the start of 2026 amid market swings, according to Fidelity. At the same time, more savers tapped their accounts for cash.