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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Markel Corporation Markel Corporation primarily relies on multiple healthcare providers to offer benefits to its employees. As a major insurance company, it collaborates with various health insurers to curate competitive health plans suited for its workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are projected to escalate significantly, particularly for those relying on Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. Major insurers are expected to implement steep premium hikes, with some states forecasting increases exceeding 60%. A pivotal factor contributing to these alarming projections is the impending expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies, which, if not renewed, could result in a staggering 75% increase in out-of-pocket costs for the majority of policyholders. This combined strain of rising medical costs and policy changes presents a challenging landscape for healthcare consumers, making careful planning and proactive management essential for navigating these financial hurdles. Click here to learn more

'Markel 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.

'Markel 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 Markel offer to its employees?

Markel offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Markel provide any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Markel provides matching contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping employees boost their retirement savings.

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

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

What is the eligibility criteria for Markel's 401(k) plan?

Employees at Markel are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, usually outlined in the employee handbook.

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

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

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

Markel's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

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

Employees at Markel can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as permitted by the plan rules.

Does Markel offer financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k)?

Yes, Markel provides financial education resources and workshops to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Markel?

If you leave Markel, you have several options for your 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to a new employer's plan, an IRA, or cashing it out, subject to tax implications.

Is there a vesting schedule for Markel's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Markel has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

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

Markel’s Pension Plan Information: Look for information on the name of the pension plan, eligibility requirements (years of service and age qualifications), and the pension formula. Identify the terminology used by Markel in their pension plan documents. Markel’s 401(k) Plan Information: Look for details on the 401(k) plan name, who qualifies, and the relevant terminology used by Markel.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Markel Corporation announced a significant restructuring initiative aimed at streamlining its operations and reducing overhead costs. The company reported that this move would lead to a reduction in workforce by approximately 5%, impacting various departments, including underwriting and claims processing. This decision was driven by the need to adapt to a shifting insurance market and improve operational efficiency. Given the current economic climate and investment challenges, it's crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about such restructuring efforts, as they can affect job security and company performance.

Markel Corporation offers stock options and RSUs to its executives and senior employees. The company’s stock options usually vest over a period of several years, and the RSUs are typically awarded based on performance metrics and tenure.

2022 Benefits Overview: Markel offers a range of health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They provide various plan options, often with a focus on flexibility and employee choice. For medical coverage, Markel typically offers both PPO and HSA-compatible plans. 2023 Benefits Changes: In 2023, Markel introduced new wellness incentives and expanded telehealth services. They emphasized mental health support and added more resources for employee well-being. 2024 Benefits Update: Markel continued to expand its health benefits, focusing on comprehensive mental health services, enhanced telehealth capabilities, and preventive care programs.