The argument for not investing in a 401(k) stems from the possibility that the cost for servicing high-interest debt may outweigh the potential performance on retirement plan assets.

FORBES: When Not to Invest in Your 401(k)

This is expected to increase assets under management by an estimated 4.1% while at the same time raising servicing fees by as much as 5%.

FORBES: BNY Mellon Still Worth $26 Despite Tough Quarter

With debt servicing now the biggest item in the budget after labour and social affairs, with few valuable state assets left to sell, and with the need to respect the toughish debt criteria for countries that have adopted Europe's single currency, the government faces overwhelming pressure to show thrift.

ECONOMIST: Germany��s economic measures