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Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for Diamondback Energy Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Diamondback Energy Diamondback Energy partners with UnitedHealthcare as its healthcare provider. This relationship is significant as UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest health insurers in the United States, offering a comprehensive range of plans that cater to the diverse needs of Diamondback's workforce. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, the healthcare landscape is anticipated to face considerable challenges, particularly for Diamondback Energy and its employees. With health insurance premiums for ACA marketplace plans projected to rise sharply-potentially by over 75% for many enrollees-the impact of expiring federal premium subsidies will be profoundly felt. This scenario is compounded by rising medical costs, with forecasts suggesting that many states may experience increases as steep as 66%, significantly affecting overall healthcare affordability for Diamondback's workforce. As these changes unfold, it is crucial for companies like Diamondback Energy to strategize on managing healthcare-related expenses effectively to support their employees amidst a fluctuating market. Click here to learn more

'Diamondback Energy employees approaching retirement should recognize that the sequence of market returns in their early years can influence the longevity of their income far more than the average return itself, making disciplined withdrawal strategies and diversified income planning essential.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Diamondback Energy employees nearing retirement can benefit from understanding how market downturns early in retirement may have lasting effects, and from adopting flexible, research-based withdrawal and allocation strategies to help sustain their income over time.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

Historical examples of sequence-of-returns risk and their effects on retirement income.
Why the first years of retirement are most critical for portfolio sustainability.
Research‑backed strategies for managing sequence risk and supporting long‑term retirement goals.

Contributed by Paul Bergeron and Brent Wolf of Wealth Enhancement

For Fortune 500 employees approaching retirement, recognizing the timing of returns—not just the average return—can be critical to keeping income going over the long term. This concept, known as sequence-of‑returns risk, shows how poor early market performance in retirement can have a lasting impact on a withdrawal plan, even if long-term averages seem strong. Historical market data provides clear examples of this risk and offers practical methods for responding to it.

Historical examples of sequence risk

Fortune 500 retirees entering retirement during tough market cycles face situations similar to the declines seen in the late 1960s, when the market hit two bear markets (1968–70 and 1973–74) alongside high inflation. The S&P 500 dropped roughly 48% during the 1973–74 bear market, compounding inflation-related difficulties. ¹ Likewise, those retiring in 2000 endured two severe bear markets in the decade, while 2022 proved one of the toughest years for balanced portfolios, with sharp drops in both U.S. stocks and high-quality bonds.

Why the early years matter most

For a Fortune 500 retiree, significant losses in the first five to ten years of retirement—combined with regular withdrawals—can shrink the number of shares left to rebound when markets recover. Academic studies and industry research repeatedly show that even with the same average return, the order of gains and losses plays a huge role in retirement outcomes.

Research-backed strategies to manage sequence risk

One effective method for Fortune 500 retirees is keeping a mix of asset types to help weather downturns. Cash and bonds can act as “shock absorbers” for immediate expenses, reducing the need to sell stocks during market dips. Flexible withdrawal approaches—such as adjusting withdrawals within set guardrails—have been shown to support portfolio longevity better than fixed-dollar withdrawal methods.

Staging risk in a retirement portfolio—by holding one to two years of expenses in cash-like assets and several years in short‑ to intermediate‑term bonds—may give equities time to recover before they're tapped for income. For some Fortune 500 retirees, delaying income sources like Social Security can help raise total lifetime income and lessen the need to tap investments during volatile times. Thoughtful rebalancing and managing tax lots, especially during downturns, can also help maintain equity exposure and extend portfolio lifespan.

Implications for retirement planning

While higher stock allocations may offer greater long-term growth potential, they also increase sequence risk in early retirement for Fortune 500 workers. Historically, balanced portfolios—often with 30% to 50% equities for income-focused funds—have supported more resilient initial withdrawal rates compared to all-stock strategies. ² Strong early-market results can set up long-term success, but disciplined spending limits, guardrails, and rebalancing remain key.

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Sources:

1.The New York Times. ' What Happens When Stock Markets Become Bears ,' by William Davis, Karl Russell, and Stephen Gandel. 13 June 2022.

2. Vanguard UK. ' Sustainable Spending Rates in Turbulent Markets ,' by Daga, Ankul, et al. Mar. 2021, pp. 1–7.

Other Resources:

1. Guyton, Jonathan T., and William J. Klinger. “ Decision Rules and Maximum Initial Withdrawal Rates .” Journal of Financial Planning , vol. 19, no. 3, Mar. 2006, pp. 48–50, 52–54, 56–58. Financial Planning Association.

2. “ Timeline of U.S. Stock Market Crashes .” Investopedia , 30 Oct. 2024, section “The 1973–74 Oil Crisis Bear Market.”

3. ' When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits. ' Social Security Administration, Pub. No. 05-10147, May 2024, pp. 1–2.

4. Arnott, Amy C., CFA, and Ivanna Hampton. “ Why More Diversification Doesn’t Mean Better Returns .” Morningstar , 7 June 2024.

What type of retirement plan does Diamondback Energy offer?

Diamondback Energy offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Is there a company match for contributions to the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?

Yes, Diamondback Energy provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, enhancing your retirement savings.

How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?

Employees can enroll in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan?

Most employees at Diamondback Energy are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

What investment options are available in Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan?

Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan at any time, subject to certain guidelines.

Does Diamondback Energy offer loans against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Diamondback Energy allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) plan balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

How often can I change my investment allocations in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their investment allocations in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan as frequently as they wish, typically through the plan’s online portal.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Diamondback Energy?

If you leave Diamondback Energy, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Diamondback plan if eligible.

Are there any fees associated with the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

For Diamondback Energy, the company offers a 401(k) plan under the name "Diamondback Energy 401(k) Plan" with eligibility based on service and age requirements that vary slightly depending on employee classification. The company uses industry-specific terminology and acronyms, including "FANG" as its stock symbol and commonly referring to its operations as part of the Permian Basin. For its pension plan offerings, while there is no traditional defined benefit pension available, Diamondback provides substantial retirement contributions through its 401(k) plan, matching employee contributions up to 6% of salary (Diamondback Energy) (Diamondback Energy). Regarding the years of service and age qualification, employees typically become eligible for Diamondback Energy’s 401(k) match after completing one year of service. The matching contributions are vested gradually, with full vesting occurring after 5 years of service. While detailed documentation does not explicitly list a traditional pension formula, the 401(k) match is a significant part of their retirement strategy

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Diamondback Energy announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. The plan included a reduction of 5% in workforce to align with the company's strategic goals and to enhance operational efficiency. This restructuring was influenced by fluctuating oil prices and the need to adapt to a more competitive market. Given the current economic environment, understanding these changes is crucial for investors and employees to make informed decisions.

In 2022, Diamondback Energy provided stock options and RSUs to senior executives and key employees. The RSUs typically vest over a four-year period. Eligibility was determined based on performance and tenure.

Company Official Website: For the most direct and accurate information on Diamondback Energy's health benefits. Industry News Sources: Reputable news outlets that cover employee benefits and changes in healthcare policies within the industry. Employment and Benefits Websites: Sites like Glassdoor, Indeed, or LinkedIn for employee reviews and company benefit details. Company Reports: Annual reports or benefits summaries released by Diamondback Energy. Healthcare and Insurance Providers: Websites of insurance providers that partner with Diamondback Energy, if available.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Diamondback Energy at 500 West Texas Ave, Suite 1200 Midland, TX 79701; or by calling them at (432) 221-7400.

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