We’re a fan of good news around here. We love celebrating! But when Mercer gives the US retirement savings system a “C” on the global scale we have to admit we feel a bit meh.

It’s one thing to be beaten by the Netherlands and Australia. Things start to hurt a bit when you’re beaten out of the top 20 by Canada … and even Kazakhstan.

So, what have the Kazakhs and the Canucks got right that we don’t? Let’s take a closer look.

October is here, bringing festive vibes and #NationalRetirementSecurityMonth—our favorite time to spotlight the importance of saving for retirement. Grab your pumpkin beer or latte and dive in as we explore RetirePath Virginia’s 4 E’s, fresh state metrics, updates from key states, a unique take on nesting shorebirds and retirement innovation, Maui-inspired wisdom, Hot Sauce, and Pix of the Week. Let’s go!

With a civilian labor force of 4.5 million, Virginia leaders had a lot to think about when they realized a good chunk of those folks didn’t have workplace access to retirement savings. That’s all changing. We talk today with program director Peter Thompson about the present, the future, and what he’s seeing in this new space.