- L-Plate Retiree
- Posts
- L-Plate Retiree - Issue #2: Still Wobbling, Still Winning!
L-Plate Retiree - Issue #2: Still Wobbling, Still Winning!
because retirement doesnt come with a manual
Your trusty L-Plater is back, navigating the twists and turns of retirement (and pre-retirement!) so you don't have to go it alone. Fasten your seatbelts, it's time for another dose of wisdom, wit, and ways to make this chapter your best one yet!
Today's Market Mood (as of June 2, 2025 close)
The quick scan: Markets kicked off June with solid gains, as tech stocks led the charge after a strong May performance.
•S&P 500: Up 0.41% to 5,935.94 points, building on May's impressive 6.2% monthly gain
•NASDAQ: Surged 0.67% to 19,242.61 points, with tech giants providing the rocket fuel
What's driving it: Tech heavyweights flexed their muscles with Meta Platforms jumping 3.6% and Nvidia climbing 1.7%. Investors appear to be shrugging off concerns about potential tariff-driven inflation that the Fed recently warned about. This positive momentum follows May's stellar performance, which saw the NASDAQ post its best month since March 2023 with a 9.6% gain.
Bottom line: June is starting on an optimistic note despite some trade tension headwinds. As always, this is just a snapshot—not financial advice!
Investing & Personal Finance: Retirement Savings 101
The scoop: Nearly 1 in 5 adults over 50 have zero retirement savings, while many others worry inflation will outpace their nest egg. But Business Insider's retirement planning guide offers a roadmap even if you're starting late.
Actionable takeaways:
•Start yesterday: Aim to save 15% of your pre-tax income for retirement—the magic of compound interest means even small contributions grow significantly over time
•Don't leave money on the table: Max out employer 401(k) matches (it's literally free money)
•Know your number: Plan to replace about 80% of your pre-retirement income (more if you want to travel extensively)
•Follow the age rule: Fidelity recommends having 1x your salary saved by 30, 3x by 40, 6x by 50, and 10x by 67
•Remember the 4% rule: In retirement, withdraw no more than 4% of your portfolio annually to make your money last
Your Noggin Nook: Health & Mental Wellness Wisdom
(Editor's Note: We were super keen to share some tips on keeping your brain brilliant in retirement from the New York Times. Unfortunately, their digital bouncer (a pesky CAPTCHA!) wouldn't let us past the velvet rope. We're working on our secret handshake to get you that wisdom soon!)
Get Your Groove On: Fitness & Staying Spry
It’s Never Too Late to Get Moving!
The scoop: If a 73-year-old can take up rowing and become a four-time world champion by 92, your excuses are looking pretty flimsy. A sports scientist who studies nonagenarian athletes reveals how anyone can improve fitness, regardless of age.
Actionable takeaways:
•Mix it up: Combine strength training with endurance exercises for the optimal fitness cocktail
•Start small: Even 10 minutes of moderate daily activity significantly reduces mortality risk
•Make it routine: Schedule exercise like brushing your teeth—non-negotiable and automatic
•Find your fitness friends: Exercise with others to boost motivation and accountability (plus it's more fun)
Don't Be a Hermit (Unless You're a Hermit Crab, Then It's Okay)
The scoop: A whopping 43% of Americans over 60 report feeling lonely, but staying socially active in retirement isn't just about having fun—it improves cognitive function, reduces depression risk, and enhances overall wellbeing.
Actionable takeaways:
•Join the club: Find groups aligned with your interests, from book clubs to hiking groups
•Learn something new: Take classes to stimulate your brain while meeting like-minded people
•Give back: Volunteer for causes you care about—helping others helps you too
•Go digital: Use technology to maintain long-distance relationships and find online communities
•Consider a furry friend: Pet ownership provides companionship and creates social opportunities
Keep the L-Plates Spinning!
This week's L-Plate challenge: Pick just ONE actionable takeaway from this issue and implement it this week. Then let us know how it went!
Share the wealth: Know someone who could use these retirement tips? Forward this newsletter and help them ditch their training wheels too.
Stay in the loop: Subscribe here to make sure our next issue lands in your inbox.
Until next time, keep learning, keep laughing, and keep those L-Plates proudly displayed!
The L-Plate Retiree Team
(Disclaimer: While we love a good laugh, the information in this newsletter is for general informational and entertainment purposes only, and does not constitute financial, health, or any other professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions about your retirement, finances, or health.)
Reply