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Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for Martin Marietta Materials Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Martin Marietta Materials The healthcare provider for Martin Marietta Materials is primarily UnitedHealthcare. They offer a range of health insurance plans to employees, which typically include various coverage options catering to both individual and family needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look toward 2026, Martin Marietta Materials anticipates significant challenges as healthcare costs are projected to rise substantially, driven by several factors. The expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies may lead to a surge in premiums, with some states witnessing increases of over 60%. Additionally, industry-wide medical costs are expected to rise by approximately 8.5%, spurred by ongoing inflation in healthcare services and the increasing costs of prescription drugs. This confluence of factors means that many employees could face a steep increase in their out-of-pocket expenses, compelling the company to consider strategic adjustments to its health benefits offerings. Click here to learn more

'Martin Marietta Materials 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.

'Martin Marietta Materials 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 Martin Marietta Materials offer to its employees?

Martin Marietta Materials offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal.

Does Martin Marietta Materials match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Martin Marietta Materials provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plan contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials is in line with the IRS annual contribution limits, which can change each year.

Can employees at Martin Marietta Materials take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees at Martin Marietta Materials may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan’s terms.

What investment options are available in the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan?

The Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan?

Yes, there is a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan, which determines when employees fully own the matched contributions.

Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials at any time, subject to plan rules.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Martin Marietta Materials?

If you leave Martin Marietta Materials, you have several options for your 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.

Are there any fees associated with the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan, 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.

Pension Plan: Martin Marietta Materials Pension Plan provides benefits based on years of service and age, with a defined benefit formula. 401(k) Plan: Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) Savings Plan offers opportunities for employees to contribute with an employer match after 30 days of service.

Layoffs & Restructuring: In 2023, Martin Marietta Materials announced a strategic restructuring plan aimed at optimizing operational efficiency. This involved a reduction in workforce, particularly in non-core areas, to streamline operations and reduce costs. The company stated that the layoffs were part of a broader strategy to enhance its competitive position amid fluctuating market conditions. Given the current economic climate, such restructuring is significant as it reflects the company’s effort to remain agile in response to economic uncertainties and shifts in the construction industry. Benefit Changes & 401k: There have been notable changes to the company's benefits package and 401k plan. Martin Marietta updated its retirement benefits by increasing the company match for 401k contributions to better support employee financial planning. Additionally, there have been adjustments to health benefits to align with new regulations and to improve coverage. These changes are important to address because they impact employee financial security and retirement planning, especially in a volatile economic environment where investment and tax conditions are continually evolving

Martin Marietta Materials stock options and RSUs are granted to attract and retain key talent within the company. Martin Marietta Materials provides these benefits primarily to executives and high-potential employees to align their interests with the company's long-term goals. The stock options and RSUs offered by Martin Marietta Materials in 2022, 2023, and 2024 are designed to incentivize and reward significant contributions to the company's success.

Health Benefits Summary: Martin Marietta Materials provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. The benefits extend to both employees and their dependents. Specific Terms: HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan): A health insurance plan with higher deductibles and lower premiums. HSA (Health Savings Account): Tax-advantaged savings account used in conjunction with an HDHP. EAP (Employee Assistance Program): Provides mental health resources and counseling.