According to Fidelity Investments, the average account balance of 17,095 workplace 401(k) plans fell by 27% in 2008.  The average plan also dropped to $50,200 in 2008 from $69,200 in 2007, and this was after the average contribution of $5,600.  This remins us that we must be areful to position our retirement assets based on our ages and proximity to retirement for a rebound, and/or to preserve principal.