New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for EPAM Systems Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for EPAM Systems EPAM Systems primarily partners with large health insurers, but specific healthcare providers may vary depending on the regional office and employee benefits package they offer. Typically, recognized national insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Cigna are among those involved in providing healthcare coverage to EPAM Systems employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As 2026 approaches, EPAM Systems employees should prepare for potential healthcare cost increases, significantly influenced by the anticipated rise in Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums. States may see hikes upwards of 60%, with many large insurers adjusting their rates to counteract escalating medical expenses and the possible expiration of federal premium subsidies. Without these subsidies, over 22 million participants could face out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75%. Consequently, employees at EPAM Systems could find themselves absorbing a larger share of healthcare costs, prompting the need for proactive planning and informed decision-making regarding their healthcare benefits. Click here to learn more

'EPAM Systems 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.

'EPAM Systems 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 retirement savings options does EPAM Systems offer to its employees?

EPAM Systems offers a 401(k) plan as a primary retirement savings option for its employees.

Does EPAM Systems match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, EPAM Systems provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan?

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

How can employees at EPAM Systems enroll in the 401(k) plan?

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

What types of investment options are available in the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan?

The EPAM Systems 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, index funds, and target-date funds.

Can employees at EPAM Systems take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, EPAM Systems allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What is the vesting schedule for EPAM Systems’ 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for EPAM Systems’ 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which employees can review in the plan documents.

How often can employees at EPAM Systems change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at EPAM Systems can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as specified by the plan guidelines.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves EPAM Systems?

If an employee leaves EPAM Systems, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the EPAM Systems plan if allowed.

Are there any fees associated with the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan?

Yes, the EPAM Systems 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, 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.

EPAM Systems provides a 401(k) plan that was established in 2006. By the end of 2022, the EPAM Systems, Inc. 401(k) Plan had total assets of $258,770,185 with 4,037 participants. On average, participants had an account balance of $64,099. The plan includes automatic enrollment, meaning that employee contributions are deducted directly from payroll unless employees opt out. Additionally, EPAM Systems offers a self-directed brokerage option, allowing employees to invest part of their account as they see fit. The company matches approximately 47.93% of employee contributions, with an average employer match of $4,967 per participant in 2022. The 401(k) plan is a critical component of EPAM Systems' employee benefits package, reflecting their focus on long-term financial planning for their employees. In terms of their pension plan, EPAM Systems does not provide detailed public information about a specific pension formula or defined benefit plan in the same manner they outline their 401(k) offering. However, based on their comprehensive 401(k) plan, it is clear that the company emphasizes retirement planning through this mechanism.

Layoffs: In early 2024, EPAM Systems announced a reduction in its workforce by approximately 4% globally. This decision was influenced by a slowdown in demand for its services, which is part of a broader trend affecting the tech sector. The company indicated that the layoffs were a strategic move to align its workforce with the current economic conditions and client needs. Benefits and Pension Changes: EPAM Systems has also made adjustments to its employee benefits program, including modifications to its 401(k) matching contributions and changes to pension plan options. These changes are intended to better manage the company’s financial resources in light of current economic uncertainties. Given the volatile economic climate and evolving tax policies, staying updated on these changes is crucial for employees to make informed financial decisions.

EPAM Systems offers stock options (SO) and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their employee compensation package. SO allows employees to purchase company stock at a set price, while RSUs grant employees company shares after certain conditions are met. These benefits are typically available to senior employees and key contributors.

Company’s Official Website: Check EPAM Systems' official site for their latest health benefits information. Health Benefits Information: Plan Types: Details on the types of health plans offered (e.g., PPO, HMO). Coverage Details: Information on coverage for medical, dental, vision, mental health, etc. Acronyms and Terms: Specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms used by EPAM Systems.