The average defined contribution account increased 25% in 2003, to $55,000, according to the Building Futures V survey of plans for which Fidelity is record keeper. In addition, 41% of accounts had balances of more than $30,000, up from 34% in 2002, while the median balance increased by one-third, to $20,000. However, the plan participation rate declined to 66% in 2003 from 68% in 2002.
In 2003, Fidelity was record keeper for 10,136 defined contribution plans with 8.2 million participants and $453 billion in assets.