Target-Date Fund (TDF)
retirementAlso known as: TDF, target date fund, lifecycle fund, target retirement fund
Updated · Written and reviewed by Konstantin Iakovlev
Detailed explanation
A "2050" fund targets a retiree planning to stop working around 2050 — currently a young worker. Glide path: starts ~90% equity, gradually shifts toward ~50% equity at retirement and ~30% by 10 years post-retirement. "To" funds reach target allocation at retirement; "through" funds continue glidepathing afterward. Expense ratios range from ultra-low (Vanguard 0.08%) to high (1%+ for actively managed). Major criticism: a single TDF cannot account for individual circumstances (other assets, pensions, risk tolerance). Still account for ~60% of new 401(k) contributions due to default-enrollment.
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