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Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for Gap Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Gap Inc. Gap Inc., the global apparel retail company, typically provides employee health benefits through various insurance carriers. As of recent data, they predominantly utilize UnitedHealthcare for their healthcare plans. This partnership offers their employees comprehensive coverage options, including medical, dental, and vision plans. Healthcare Cost Increases for Gap in 2026 As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly, impacting Gap's overall employee benefits expenditures. Recent projections indicate that premiums for health insurance plans may increase by an average of 20%, with certain states experiencing jumps of 60% or more, primarily due to heightened medical expenses and the potential loss of federal premium subsidies. Consequently, many employees enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans might see out-of-pocket costs surge by over 75%, compelling employers like Gap to reassess and potentially adjust their health benefits strategies to mitigate these financial pressures for their workforce. Click here to learn more

'Gap 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.

'Gap 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 is Gap's 401(k) plan?

Gap's 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How does Gap match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Gap offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.

What are the eligibility requirements for Gap's 401(k) plan?

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

Can Gap employees change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Gap employees can change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan at any time, allowing them to adjust their savings based on their financial situation.

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

Gap's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose investments that align with their retirement goals.

Does Gap provide financial education regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Gap provides resources and financial education to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions about their retirement savings.

How can Gap employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Gap employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance with the enrollment process.

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

If you leave Gap, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to an individual retirement account (IRA) or another employer’s plan, or cashing it out.

Are there any fees associated with Gap's 401(k) plan?

Yes, like many 401(k) plans, Gap's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How often can Gap employees change their investment allocations in the 401(k) plan?

Gap employees can change their investment allocations in the 401(k) plan at any time, allowing them to respond to market conditions or personal financial changes.

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

Name of Pension Plan: Gap Inc. Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Eligibility: Employees are generally eligible for the pension plan if they have at least 5 years of service. The retirement age qualification is typically 65 years, but early retirement options may be available with reduced benefits. Pension Formula: 401(k) Plan Details Name of 401(k) Plan: Gap Inc. 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Eligibility: Generally available to employees who meet the minimum service requirements, which is usually one year of service. The plan allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary pre-tax.

In 2023, Gap Inc. announced a significant restructuring plan as part of its efforts to streamline operations and improve profitability. This included a reduction in its global workforce and the closure of several underperforming stores. These changes are part of a broader strategy to adapt to shifting consumer preferences and economic pressures. It's crucial to monitor these developments due to the current economic climate, which impacts employment stability and corporate financial health. The restructuring aims to position Gap Inc. better amidst evolving market conditions, emphasizing the need for employees and investors to stay informed about these changes.

Gap Inc. offered stock options (SO) and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to key executives and senior management in 2022. SO typically allowed for purchase at a set price, while RSUs were granted as a form of performance or retention incentive.

1. Gap Official Website Health Benefits Page: The official Gap website typically contains information on employee benefits, including health insurance plans. Specific terms and acronyms used might include "HMO" (Health Maintenance Organization), "PPO" (Preferred Provider Organization), and "HSAs" (Health Savings Accounts). 2. Glassdoor Employee Reviews: Glassdoor often includes employee reviews and feedback on benefits. Look for terms like "medical insurance," "dental coverage," and "vision benefits." 3. Indeed Company Reviews: Indeed provides employee reviews and sometimes includes details on benefits packages. Key terms might be "401(k) match," "healthcare coverage," and "family leave." 4. LinkedIn Company Page: LinkedIn's company page sometimes features posts about benefits and changes. Acronyms like "FSA" (Flexible Spending Account) and "EAP" (Employee Assistance Program) might be mentioned. 5. Benefit News Websites Recent Articles: Websites focused on employee benefits, such as BenefitsPro or Employee Benefit News, may have articles detailing recent changes or updates in Gap's benefits. Summary of Recent Employee Healthcare News: Healthcare Plans: Gap has been known to offer a variety of healthcare plans including PPO and HMO options. Recent changes in 2023 included enhancements to their telehealth services and expansion of mental health resources. Healthcare Terms & Acronyms: PPO: Preferred Provider Organization HMO: Health Maintenance Organization HSA: Health Savings Account FSA: Flexible Spending Account EAP: Employee Assistance Program Recent Changes: 2023: Introduction of new mental health support services and increased coverage for telemedicine visits. 2024: Possible updates to premium rates and network expansions; specific details will be more apparent as official announcements are made. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should visit the official Gap website and check recent employee reviews and benefit articles from reliable sources. If you need further details on any specific aspect, let me know!

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Gap at , ; or by calling them at .

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