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Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for Leidos Holdings Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Leidos Holdings, Inc. does not directly provide its own healthcare services; instead, it offers health insurance benefits to its employees through various third-party insurance providers. The specifics of these healthcare providers may change based on company contracts and employee preferences during open enrollment periods. Looking ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly, driven by a combination of factors impacting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Insurers are requesting steep premium increases-some exceeding 60% in certain states-partly due to higher medical costs and the potential loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies. This could lead to out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75% for a large number of enrollees, primarily affecting middle-income Americans who may struggle to maintain adequate coverage. As the insurance landscape evolves, individuals and families must prepare for these financial implications and consider proactive strategies to mitigate costs. Click here to learn more

'Leidos Holdings 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.

'Leidos Holdings 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 options does Leidos offer for employees looking to transition into retirement, and how can these options impact employees' financial planning for retirement? Employees may want to consider their defined benefit pension plans and other retirement savings options provided by Leidos, understanding how these plans complement each other.

Retirement Options at Leidos: Leidos offers employees various retirement options, including defined benefit pension plans and retirement savings plans. These options can greatly impact an employee’s financial planning for retirement, helping them ensure a steady income stream post-retirement. Employees should carefully consider how their pension plans complement their 401(k) and other retirement benefits to make informed financial decisions.

In what ways can an employee at Leidos maximize their retirement benefits, particularly regarding the integration of short-term and long-term disability benefits? Employees should assess their eligibility for both STD and LTD benefits to navigate their retirement effectively while ensuring their financial security during any potential health-related absences.

Maximizing Retirement Benefits and Disability: Employees at Leidos can maximize their retirement benefits by understanding how short-term and long-term disability (STD/LTD) benefits integrate with their retirement plans. STD covers up to 180 days, and LTD can provide up to 60% of base salary if a disability extends beyond 180 days. Understanding the eligibility and benefit durations can help employees ensure financial stability during health-related work absences(Leidos_2018 Disability …).

How do the IRS limits for 2024 relate to the retirement savings plans available at Leidos, and what strategies can employees employ to ensure they are on track to meet these limits? Understanding the contribution limits for 401(k) plans and the implications of these limits can provide an essential framework for retirement savings.

IRS Limits for 2024: The IRS contribution limits for 401(k) plans in 2024 are crucial for retirement planning. Employees should stay informed about these limits to ensure they are contributing the maximum allowable amount to their retirement accounts. Leidos’ retirement plans are structured to accommodate these limits, allowing employees to optimize their retirement savings.

What are the distinct differences between the short-term and long-term disability benefits provided by Leidos that employees should understand before entering retirement? Employees must grasp how STD and LTD benefits operate, including eligibility requirements, duration of benefits, and how they can influence financial planning for retirement.

Differences Between STD and LTD at Leidos: Leidos provides both short-term and long-term disability plans, which differ in eligibility, duration, and coverage. STD benefits last for up to 180 days, while LTD benefits take effect afterward and can cover up to 60% of base salary. Understanding these differences is key for employees planning for potential health-related income disruptions(Leidos_2018 Disability …).

How can employees learn more about Leidosâ€™ retirement benefits, including retirement counseling services and resources available for pre-retirement planning? Understanding how to navigate these resources is vital for employees approaching retirement to make informed decisions about their benefits.

Accessing Retirement Counseling and Resources: Leidos provides access to retirement counseling services and resources to support pre-retirement planning. Employees should take advantage of these services to better understand their retirement options, including pension payout options, 401(k) plans, and health coverage post-retirement.

What steps should an employee at Leidos take if they are considering early retirement, particularly concerning their health coverage and pension plan options? Exploring the implications of early retirement on health benefits and retirement income is essential as employees transition into this phase of life.

Steps for Early Retirement: Employees considering early retirement at Leidos should carefully review the impact on their health coverage and pension plans. Early retirement may reduce pension benefits and affect access to certain health benefits, so understanding the full financial impact is essential before making this decision.

How do Leidosâ€™ disability policies affect an employee's retirement plans, and what should they be aware of regarding eligibility and claims processes? Knowing when and how to file claims for disability while planning for retirement can significantly affect financial stability in later years.

Disability Policies and Retirement Plans: Leidos’ disability policies can significantly affect retirement plans. Both STD and LTD policies have eligibility requirements that can influence how long an employee can receive benefits, and they should consider these policies in their broader retirement planning(Leidos_2018 Disability …).

In what ways can retirement planning discussions evolve at Leidos, especially as employees enter their final years of service? This inquiry addresses the evolving nature of retirement benefits and effective planning practices employees should prioritize as they prepare to retire.

Evolving Retirement Planning Discussions: Retirement planning at Leidos should evolve as employees approach the end of their careers. Employees should regularly review their pension plans, retirement savings, and healthcare options to ensure they are maximizing their benefits and making adjustments as needed for a smooth transition into retirement.

What information can Leidos employees access regarding their pension plan's payout options upon retirement, and what factors should they consider when selecting their payout option? Understanding the different distributions available to employees can help them choose the best option for their financial situation post-retirement.

Pension Plan Payout Options: Leidos employees can access detailed information regarding pension plan payout options, including lump-sum and annuity payments. Employees should evaluate factors such as longevity, tax implications, and financial needs when selecting the best payout option to ensure financial security in retirement.

How can employees at Leidos contact Human Resources to inquire further about their retirement options and benefits? Clear communication channels and support can facilitate a smoother transition into retirement for all employees looking to understand their rights and benefits associated with retirement at Leidos.

Contacting Human Resources for Retirement Inquiries: Leidos employees can contact Human Resources to inquire about retirement options, benefits, and any necessary paperwork. Clear communication with HR is essential for understanding the specific retirement resources available and ensuring a smooth retirement process.

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

Leidos Holdings offers comprehensive retirement benefits, including a 401(k) plan and a pension scheme. Employees are eligible to participate in the Leidos 401(k) Retirement Plan, which includes a company match of 100% on employee Pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax contributions, up to 5% of eligible pay. Vesting for company contributions occurs over three years of service. Contributions can be made on a pre-tax, Roth after-tax, or traditional after-tax basis, and employees are immediately eligible to receive company contributions. The Leidos 401(k) plan offers a wide range of investment options, including both passive and active funds. Vanguard provides investment advice services for participants (Vanguard) (Leidos). For pension benefits, Leidos Holdings offers a matching pension scheme. This pension plan allows employees to save for retirement through a structured match program. The retirement contributions vary based on the fringe benefit package of the employee, and there are different options for how the pension plan is structured and managed based on the employee's needs (Leidos). Leidos Holdings has incorporated terminology such as "vesting," "Roth after-tax contributions," and "passive and active investment options" within their plans to clarify the specifics of the retirement benefits. These terms help employees understand how their savings will accumulate and what choices they have for investing for retirement.

Restructuring (2024): Leidos has announced a major restructuring in 2024, realigning its operating groups and making changes to corporate leadership. The company is now organized into five sectors: Health and Civil, National Security, Commercial and International, Digital Modernization, and Defense Systems. Leadership changes were also implemented to support long-term strategy execution. This restructuring is essential for the company to remain competitive in its industry and adapt to the evolving needs of national security and modernization efforts (Intelligence Community News). Importance: It is critical to address this restructuring news given the economic pressures and the strategic importance of defense and technology sectors in the political and security landscape. The company's reorganization can impact its financial stability and workforce, influencing investment decisions during uncertain political and tax environments.

Leidos Holdings offers a variety of stock options and RSUs (Restricted Stock Units) to its employees across several levels of the organization. Stock options at Leidos are primarily offered to senior management and key employees under the company's equity incentive plans, allowing them to purchase Leidos common stock at a set price within a defined period. The RSUs, on the other hand, are awarded as a form of deferred compensation, granted over a vesting period, which employees can convert into company shares upon meeting certain conditions such as tenure or performance (Leidos) (Leidos) (Leidos). In 2022, Leidos expanded its equity incentive program to include a wider pool of employees, particularly focusing on those in critical roles within national security and health sectors. The company's SEC filings show that RSUs were granted based on both performance metrics and time-based vesting schedules (Leidos) (Leidos). In 2023, Leidos continued this practice, issuing RSUs under their standard plan, with the stock options being reserved for more senior positions (Leidos). The vesting period typically spans three to four years, with performance-based RSUs awarded to leadership (Leidos). Leidos Holdings consistently aims to incentivize long-term commitment, granting equity to employees who are critical to the business's success.

Leidos Holdings offers comprehensive healthcare benefits designed to meet the diverse needs of its workforce. Employees have access to several health insurance plans, including four Consumer Directed Health Plans (CDHPs) with associated Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). These plans, known as Healthy Focus Plans (Basic, Essential, Advantage, and Premier), enable participants to manage their healthcare expenses while saving for future medical costs. Additionally, Leidos provides dental and vision coverage through national PPO plans and regional HMO options. Leidos also emphasizes mental health, offering behavioral health services via Teladoc for Aetna members and Virgin Pulse for overall wellness management. The company’s healthcare approach reflects its commitment to employee well-being in a dynamic economic environment, ensuring that workers are prepared for rising healthcare costs due to ongoing shifts in healthcare regulations (Leidos Benefits) (Leidos Benefits). The importance of discussing healthcare benefits at Leidos cannot be overstated, especially given the current political and economic landscape. With healthcare costs rising, Leidos' benefits program supports employees in making informed choices through tools like ALEX, a virtual benefits counselor. Furthermore, Leidos' partnership with wellness platforms like Virgin Pulse highlights their focus on preventive care and mental well-being. This proactive approach helps mitigate the financial burden on employees in a changing tax and healthcare policy environment. As political discourse increasingly focuses on healthcare reform, companies like Leidos play a crucial role in supporting their employees with flexible, comprehensive benefits that adapt to new legislative and economic realities (Leidos) (Leidos).

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

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