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Don't Panic: A Bull Case for Equities The Boeing Company

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In light of recent market swings discussed in the article, The Boeing Company employees should keep a conservative portfolio,' said the report. Adapting your Retirement strategy to weather market volatilities can protect your future financial security without sacrificing growth as you approach Retirement, says Tyson Mavar of the Retirement Group.

Given recent steep dives in both stocks and bonds, Wesley Boudreaux of the Retirement Group says The Boeing Company employees should do some serious financial planning. This mitigates risks and positions you to profit from market recoveries - a resilient investment strategy in the face of economic uncertainty. '

In this article, we will discuss:

1. Market Volatility and Retirement: How market fluctuations affect retirees' savings and why a diversified investment portfolio is important.

2. Historical Market Recovery: History of how stocks have rebounded from corrections and the value of historical data in predicting market trends.

3. Economic Fundamentals and Projections: The robustness of U.S. economy fundamentals and their ability to contain short-term market volatilities.

DON'T PANIC

Several studies suggest that extreme market volatility may be especially difficult for retirees or those approaching retirement age to recover from possible losses. According to a report in October 2021 from Fidelity Investments, market volatility could wipe out retirement savings of up to 26% for those in their 60s. That underscores the need for a diversified investment portfolio and a solid retirement plan that reflects possible market volatility.

Stocks are off to among the worst starts in history for both markets. The S&P 500 Index was down 12.92% and other broad market indices were down double digits through April 2022. (1)

And worse than that, investors like those in Texas or New York are losing nearly as much as they are on the equity side of their portfolios. The Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index measures domestic fixed income and posted its sharpest quarterly loss since 1980 to start the year (2) and is down -9.50% through April end. The current environment has left investors with nowhere to run and some have left markets or gone to cash - so we feel it important to bring this up with our The Boeing Company clients.

A hasty reaction could leave investors missing out on a rebound, since historical equity performance following market corrections and solid underlying economic fundamentals point to a stock market rebound sooner rather than later. Contact retirement-focused advisors today if you're unsure of your situation.

A BULL CASE FOR EQUITIES:

OUR GUIDE - HISTORY. The S&P 500 entered correction territory again 22 trading days after exiting; it makes its fastest return to negative 10% performance since November 2008, when the Great Financial Crisis began. (3) For our The Boeing Company clients, the table below excludes periods where a correction turned into a bear market and shows how the S&P 500 fared after exiting a correction. In the S&P 500, the average gain after exiting a correction was nearly 14%, based on data going back to 1928. (4)

Not every bad start to the year is indicative of things to come, we remind our The Boeing Company clients. It marks the third worst start to 2022 for the S&P 500 Index.

In spite of this, stocks recover nicely after the worst starts - on average - and rise 10%. Double digit gains are certainly possible in the last eight months of the year based on statistics for our The Boeing Company clients. (5)

FOR MARKETS IT IS A BULL CASE: STRONG ECONOMIC FUNDAMENTALS Aside from historical performance that backed a second-half rally in equities, fundamentals for the U.S. economy remain solid. Demand resilience, robust corporate and consumer financial positioning, and rising earnings may provide shock absorbers during the near- to medium-term volatility that market observers expect to remain.

Initial expectations for first-quarter economic development showed a surprise contraction. US real GDP lost 1.4% (adjusted for inflation) from +6.9% in the previous quarter. This sharp slowdown was due to a drag from exports, a drop in inventory spending after a large uptick in the prior quarter and, less notably, in government spending. Moreover, consumer expenditure grew at a healthy pace - it makes up almost 70% of the U.S. economy. Personal consumption grew by 2.7% from 2.5% in the previous month, with increased expenditure on services. Over the previous decade, consumer spending grew an average of 2.3% per year. (1)

Business investment jumped by 9.2%, the highest level in a year - another positive economic indicator. If companies accelerate automation and investment to cope with persistent labor shortages, the broad momentum in capital expenditures should continue. Overall, the extremely constrained labor market and wage growth help consumers. We think consumption will continue to support above-average economic growth this year as the effects of the pandemic are easing - and remind our The Boeing Company clients of this. One last caveat: economic growth can differ greatly from stock market growth - as the markets currently stand.

Trying to predict the market by selling existing positions and entering a supposed 'safer' environment usually results in a big loss for shareholders. Investors do best if they stick to a plan, weather market downturns with conservative, risk-adjusted asset allocations, and remain invested through the turnaround when the biggest gains materialize.

Economic Definitions GDP is the ultimate market value of all goods and services made in a nation. It is the most used economic indicator. GDP by expenditure method measures total final expenditures at purchasers' prices excluding exports minus imports. This assumes inflation.

Index Definitions S&P 500:

The S&P 500 (r) is the best single indicator of large-cap U.S. equities and the basis of an enormous range of investment products. It includes 500 major companies and represents about 80% of market capitalization.

The Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Bond Index measures the investment-grade US dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market. It contains Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities, MBS (agency fixed-rate pass-throughs), ABS, and CMBS (agency and non-agency).

The investment is like gardening. As a gardener would plant, tend and prune his plants, so must an investor take care of his investments. You need patience, diligence & a long term vision. As a gardener might face drought, pests or extreme weather, investors face market volatility, inflation, and economic downturns. But with planning, diversification, and periodic adjustments both gardeners and investors can reap great rewards. Time and effort pays off in a satisfying harvest.

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Sources:

1. Fidelity Investments.  'Fidelity Wealth Management - Perspectives on Inflation.'  Fidelity , 30 Apr. 2022,  www.fidelity.com .

2. Fidelity Investments.  'Fidelity 2023 RSA Executive Summary.'  The News Market , 2023, preview.thenewsmarket.com.

3. Lannan, Kelly.  'Fidelity® Q3 2021 Retirement Analysis: Retirement Savers ‘Stay the Course’ in Spite of Stock Market Swings and Ongoing Economic Uncertainty.'  Business Wire , 2021,  www.businesswire.com .

4. Fidelity Investments.  'Market Volatility Resources and Insights.'  Fidelity Institutional www.institutional.fidelity.com .

5. Fidelity Investments.  'Navigating the Current Environment.'  Fidelity www.fidelity.com .

How does the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan (VIP) integrate with other retirement plans offered by Boeing Company, and what specific changes have been made recently to enhance retirement benefits for employees? Discuss the implications these changes might have on employees planning their retirement.

The Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan (VIP) integrates with other Boeing retirement plans, such as the Boeing Pension Value Plan and other defined benefit plans. Recently, changes like the addition of a Roth contribution option and a shift toward enhanced defined contributions have been made to improve benefits for certain employees, particularly those who previously participated in both defined benefit and defined contribution plans. These changes enhance retirement planning flexibility but may require employees to adjust their strategies depending on their long-term financial goals.

What are the key eligibility requirements for participation in the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan, and how do these requirements align with industry standards for retirement plans within large corporations? Specifically, address how the eligibility criteria impact various groups of employees within Boeing Company.

Key eligibility requirements for the Boeing VIP include no minimum age or service requirements, though certain groups, such as union employees and non-resident aliens, may be excluded. These criteria align with industry standards, making the plan accessible to a broad range of employees. The inclusivity of eligibility supports employees at various career stages, though exclusions may affect unionized employees or contractors differently from their non-union counterparts​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

In what ways does the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan support employees who wish to make catch-up contributions, particularly for those nearing retirement age? Examine the financial benefits and potential challenges associated with these contributions for Boeing employees.

Boeing VIP allows catch-up contributions for employees aged 50 and over, aligning with IRS guidelines for retirement savings. This option benefits employees nearing retirement by enabling them to contribute more toward their savings. However, the increased financial burden of larger contributions could pose a challenge for employees with tighter budgets, potentially limiting their ability to maximize catch-up contributions​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

How does the investment allocation strategy within the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan reflect the principles of risk management and diversification? Evaluate the types of investment options available and their relevance for Boeing employees planning for retirement.

The investment strategy of Boeing VIP emphasizes risk management and diversification, offering a wide range of options, including lifecycle funds, index funds, and company stock. These choices provide flexibility for employees with varying risk tolerances, helping them manage retirement savings effectively. The availability of different fund types ensures that employees can align their investment choices with their retirement timelines and risk preferences​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

What options does the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan provide for loans and withdrawals, and how do these options affect employees’ financial planning? Analyze the conditions under which Boeing employees can access their funds and the implications of these conditions on long-term retirement savings.

Boeing VIP offers loans and withdrawal options, including hardship withdrawals and in-service distributions at age 59½. These features provide flexibility in accessing retirement funds but come with conditions that could affect long-term savings. For example, taking a loan or withdrawal may reduce the funds available for retirement and may lead to penalties, making it important for employees to carefully consider the implications before accessing their funds​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

How can Boeing employees effectively utilize the resources available through the Boeing Retirement Service Center to optimize their retirement planning? Discuss the types of support services provided and how they can aid employees in making informed decisions regarding their retirement benefits.

Boeing employees can utilize resources through the Boeing Retirement Service Center, which provides support for retirement planning. The center offers tools, counseling, and online resources to help employees understand their options and optimize their benefits. These services assist employees in making informed decisions, ensuring they have access to the latest information about their retirement plans​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

In what ways does the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan facilitate automatic enrollment and escalation for employees? Assess the impact of these features on employee participation rates and retirement savings at Boeing Company.

Automatic enrollment and escalation features in the Boeing VIP encourage higher participation rates and increased savings. Employees are automatically enrolled at 4% pre-tax contributions, with an option for annual increases of 1% up to 8%. These features simplify the process for employees and help them build their retirement savings incrementally over time​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

How does Boeing Company ensure that its pension and retirement plans remain compliant with current IRS regulations and requirements? Discuss the importance of ongoing compliance audits and employee education in maintaining the integrity of the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan.

Boeing ensures compliance with IRS regulations by regularly updating its plans and conducting compliance audits. Maintaining adherence to regulations is essential for protecting the plan's tax-qualified status, and Boeing also focuses on employee education to ensure they understand the requirements and benefits of the plan​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

What steps should Boeing employees take if they have questions or seek more information about the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan? Outline the available channels for communication and the types of inquiries that can be directed to Boeing's human resources department.

Boeing employees with questions about the VIP can contact the Boeing Retirement Service Center or their human resources department. These channels provide assistance with inquiries related to plan features, contributions, and withdrawals, offering personalized guidance to help employees manage their retirement planning effectively​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

How does the recent shift from traditional defined-benefit pensions to a defined-contribution model, as seen in the Boeing Voluntary Investment Plan, influence the financial security of future retirees from Boeing? Explore the long-term effects this transition may have on employee savings behavior and retirement readiness.

The shift from traditional defined-benefit pensions to a defined-contribution model, like the Boeing VIP, changes the way employees plan for retirement. Employees are now more responsible for managing their own investments and savings, which may lead to varying levels of financial security depending on their decisions. This transition emphasizes the need for employees to be more proactive in their retirement planning to ensure they meet their long-term financial goals​(Boeing_Voluntary_Invest…).

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Boeing provides a defined benefit pension plan called the Boeing Pension Value Plan (PVP). Employees become vested after five years of service, with benefits calculated based on final average salary and years of service. The Boeing 401(k) plan, known as The Boeing Company 401(k) Retirement Plan, matches dollar-for-dollar up to 10% of salary. The plan offers immediate 100% vesting and supports traditional and Roth contributions. [Source: Boeing Benefits Handbook, 2022, p. 30]
Boeing has introduced voluntary layoff and early retirement packages for eligible employees as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce costs. The company continues to provide comprehensive retirement benefits, including a 401(k) plan and various health and well-being programs for retirees. Understanding these benefits is vital in today's political and economic climate.
Boeing grants stock options and RSUs to incentivize employees. Stock options allow employees to buy shares at a set price after vesting, while RSUs are awarded with vesting conditions such as tenure or performance. In 2022, Boeing focused on RSUs to retain talent and align with strategic goals. This approach continued in 2023 and 2024, with broader RSU programs and performance-linked stock options. Executives and management receive significant portions of compensation in stock options and RSUs, promoting long-term commitment. [Source: Boeing Annual Reports 2022-2024, p. 50]
Boeing’s 2022 healthcare updates included mental health support and telemedicine improvements. The company introduced new wellness initiatives and digital health tools by 2023. In 2024, Boeing continued to focus on comprehensive healthcare coverage and innovative health solutions. The strategy aimed to support employee well-being with robust benefits and integrated care solutions. Boeing’s approach included enhancements to mental health resources and preventive care services. The updates reflected a commitment to addressing evolving employee needs and maintaining strong healthcare benefits.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for The Boeing Company at 100 N Riverside Plaza, Suite 2300 Chicago, IL 60606; or by calling them at +1 312-544-2000.

https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/pension_plan2023.pdf - Page 11 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/401k_plan2024.pdf - Page 14 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/rsu_plan2022.pdf - Page 16 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/stock_options2023.pdf - Page 22 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/healthcare2024.pdf - Page 25 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/annual_report2023.pdf - Page 35 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/employee_handbook2022.pdf - Page 40 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/retirement_guide2023.pdf - Page 12 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/benefit_highlights2024.pdf - Page 37 https://www.boeing.com/docs/benefits/benefit_summary2023.pdf - Page 29

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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