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Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for DXC Technology Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for DXC Technology DXC Technology collaborates with various healthcare providers to enhance its technology and consulting services. One notable partner is Optum, which is part of UnitedHealth Group. Together, they focus on implementing innovative health solutions and improving patient care through data-driven insights and technology advancements. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As healthcare costs continue to rise, 2026 is poised for significant premium increases across the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With record ACA premium hikes anticipated-some states reporting over 60% increases-consumers may face a staggering jump in out-of-pocket costs due to the potential loss of federal subsidies. Without congressional renewal of enhanced premium tax credits, over 22 million marketplace enrollees could experience premiums rising by 75% or more. This confluence of rising medical costs, structural changes in the healthcare marketplace, and insurer profit pressures marks a critical moment for consumers navigating their healthcare options. This brief overview encapsulates the challenges ahead, underscoring the importance of proactive planning for individuals and families as they face potentially overwhelming healthcare expenses in the near future. Click here to learn more

'DXC Technology 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.

'DXC Technology 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 savings plan does DXC Technology offer?

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

Does DXC Technology provide matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, DXC Technology offers matching contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the 401(k) plan at DXC Technology?

Employees at DXC Technology are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically within the first year of employment.

Can employees of DXC Technology choose how much to contribute to their 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at DXC Technology can choose their contribution percentage, allowing them to tailor their savings according to their financial goals.

What investment options are available in the DXC Technology 401(k) plan?

The DXC Technology 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the DXC Technology 401(k) plan?

Employees at DXC Technology can change their contribution amounts at any time, allowing for flexibility in their savings strategy.

Does DXC Technology allow for loans against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, DXC Technology permits employees to take loans against their 401(k) plan, subject to certain conditions and limits.

What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave DXC Technology?

If you leave DXC Technology, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, leave it in the DXC plan, or cash it out, subject to tax implications.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the DXC Technology 401(k) plan?

Yes, DXC Technology has a vesting schedule for employer matching contributions, which means you must work for the company for a certain period to fully own those contributions.

Can part-time employees participate in the DXC Technology 401(k) plan?

Yes, part-time employees at DXC Technology may be eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan, depending on their hours worked and tenure.

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

Plan Name: DXC Technology's Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Typically, employees need to meet specific age and service requirements to qualify for benefits. For DXC Technology, employees generally need a minimum of 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old to qualify for full pension benefits. Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on years of service and salary. For instance, the formula could be a percentage of the average salary multiplied by years of service, but specifics may vary. Plan Name: DXC Technology 401(k) Savings Plan Qualifications: Employees are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan immediately upon employment. Contributions are made through payroll deductions, and DXC Technology often offers a company match up to a certain percentage of employee contributions.

Restructuring and Layoffs: DXC Technology has been actively restructuring its business to streamline operations and improve profitability. In 2023, the company announced significant layoffs as part of its strategy to cut costs and refocus on core business areas. These layoffs are a response to the evolving technology landscape and economic pressures. It's crucial to monitor these changes due to the current economic and investment environment, which impacts how companies adapt to market demands and manage resources. Additionally, tax and political factors influence corporate restructuring decisions.

DXC Technology offers stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its employee compensation packages. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, these stock-based incentives were made available primarily to upper-level employees, such as executives and senior management, as part of long-term incentive plans (LTIPs). DXC Technology, referred to by its ticker symbol DXC, uses these plans to retain and reward key personnel while aligning their interests with shareholders. In 2022, the company continued offering RSUs, typically vesting over a multi-year period, often three to four years, based on performance metrics and tenure. Stock options granted to employees allow them to purchase shares at a set price, which may rise in value depending on the company’s market performance. RSUs, in particular, became a more prominent component in DXC's compensation due to stock price volatility, offering guaranteed stock over time rather than depending on option price appreciation.

Health Insurance and Benefits: Information is consistent with other sources, indicating DXC offers a range of medical and wellness benefits. Reviews suggest that while the benefits are solid, there could be improvements in plan options and cost-sharing. Forbes: Recent Healthcare Developments: Forbes has highlighted DXC’s commitment to employee wellness programs, including mental health support. The company has been recognized for its efforts in promoting a healthy work-life balance. Recent Employee Healthcare News 2023: Expansion of Wellness Programs: DXC announced enhancements to its wellness programs, focusing on mental health resources and stress management workshops. This move aligns with a broader trend of improving employee well-being. 2024

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for DXC Technology at 1775 Tysons Blvd Tysons, VA 22102; or by calling them at (703) 245-9675.

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