Abstract

In this paper, we explore an optimization problem in which a working agent with an option to retire wants to maximize her expected lifetime utility. The agent receives labor (or annuity) income before/after retirement and experiences dis-utility due to labor. Additionally, the agent can partially borrow against her future income before/after retirement. We demonstrate that when pre-retirement borrowing constraints are strict, the agent retires early, while strong post-retirement borrowing constraints result in a late retirement. Our numerical results reveal that the retirement threshold level changes with varying interest rates, with an increase in interest rates leading to a general decrease in the retirement threshold level. However, in certain cases with borrowing constraints, the declining effects of pre-/post-retirement discounted income strongly influence the retirement decision as the interest rate increases. Additionally, our findings indicate that the impact of the volatility of the risky asset and the interest rate on the retirement wealth level varies. Specifically, at low interest rates, higher volatility is associated with an increased retirement wealth level, while at high interest rates, lower volatility results in a marginal increase in the retirement wealth level. These findings suggest a diminishing influence of volatility on the retirement wealth level as interest rates rise.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.