I think there’s a balance between accruing and exploiting in terms of converting delayed value into realized value [0]. The utility of a dollar goes down as your able to do less with it or have less likelihood of being able to spend it [1]. For example, a family member took a trip right after retirement to Machu Picchu and passed away, not much good his pension and 401k did at that point.

The numbers in the bank account work out, but I’m less convinced that it remains as simple when you add the existential variable into the question.

[0] Spending money

[1] Things like focusing on your kids and inheritance help subvert this a bit.