Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for MGM Resorts International Employees

New Update: Rising Oil Costs are Affecting Retirement Plans. Will you be impacted?

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Navigating Sequence Risk in Retirement: Lessons and Strategies for MGM Resorts International Employees

August 27, 2025

How Oil Volatility Affects Your MGM Resorts International Retirement

Crude oil prices remain elevated and volatile, with annualized volatility around 80% and prices ranging between $50 and $120 per barrel over the past six months. Facility energy costs and travel demand suppression from high fuel prices create direct and indirect headwinds for hospitality companies. For MGM Resorts International employees building retirement savings, oil-driven inflation and market volatility make disciplined saving and diversified allocation more important, as energy cycles can disrupt both portfolio values and purchasing power. Working with a financial advisor can help you position your planning strategy for sustained energy price uncertainty.

'MGM Resorts International 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.

'MGM Resorts International 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.
Researchâ€‘backed strategies for managing sequence risk and supporting longâ€‘term retirement goals.

Contributed by Paul Bergeron and Brent Wolf of Wealth Enhancement

For Fortuneâ€¯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-ofâ€‘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

Fortuneâ€¯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&Pâ€¯500 dropped roughly 48% during the 1973-74 bear market, compounding inflation-related difficulties. ¹ Likewise, those retiring 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 Fortuneâ€¯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 Fortuneâ€¯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 shortâ€‘ to intermediateâ€‘term bonds, may give equities time to recover before they're tapped for income. For some Fortuneâ€¯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 Fortuneâ€¯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.

As you plan your transition from MGM Resorts International into retirement, understanding the company's benefit structure can help you make more informed decisions. According to publicly available information, MGM Resorts International does not maintain a traditional defined benefit pension plan, making your 401(k) plan and personal savings the primary vehicles for retirement income. MGM Resorts International does not appear to offer a formal retiree healthcare program, so healthcare coverage planning before Medicare eligibility at age 65 is an important consideration. We encourage you to review your Summary Plan Description (SPD) or speak with MGM Resorts International's HR or benefits team for the most current details.

Sources:

1.The New York Times. ' What Happens When Stock Markets Become Bears ,' by William Davis, Karl Russell, and Stephen Gandel. 13 June 2022.

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 MGM Resorts International offer to its employees?

MGM Resorts International offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Does MGM Resorts International match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, MGM Resorts International provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement for employees to participate in MGM Resorts International's 401(k) plan?

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

Can employees of MGM Resorts International choose how much to contribute to their 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at MGM Resorts International can choose their contribution percentage within the limits set by the IRS.

What investment options are available in the MGM Resorts International 401(k) plan?

The 401(k) plan at MGM Resorts International offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

How can MGM Resorts International employees access their 401(k) account information?

Employees of MGM Resorts International can access their 401(k) account information through the company’s designated retirement plan website or mobile app.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in MGM Resorts International's 401(k) plan?

Yes, MGM Resorts International has a vesting schedule for the employer match, meaning employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched contributions.

What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave MGM Resorts International?

If you leave MGM Resorts International, you can choose to leave your 401(k) funds in the plan, roll them over to an IRA, or transfer them to a new employer's retirement plan.

Can MGM Resorts International employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

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

Are there penalties for early withdrawal from the MGM Resorts International 401(k) plan?

Yes, early withdrawals from the MGM Resorts International 401(k) plan may incur taxes and penalties unless specific exceptions apply.

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: MGM Resorts International does not have a traditional defined benefit pension plan; instead, it offers a 401(k) plan for retirement benefits. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Not applicable, as MGM Resorts International does not provide a defined benefit pension plan. Name of 401(k) Plan: MGM Resorts International 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing 30 days of service. Contribution: Employees can make pre-tax or Roth contributions, and MGM Resorts International may provide matching contributions.

MGM Resorts International has been actively involved in restructuring efforts due to the economic challenges brought by the ongoing market volatility. The company announced a significant reduction in its workforce in early 2024, affecting various departments across its properties. This move is part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs amid declining revenues and increased operational expenses. The layoffs impact not only the operational staff but also senior management, indicating a deep organizational restructuring. In addition to the layoffs, MGM Resorts has made adjustments to its company benefits and retirement plans, including changes to its 401(k) matching contributions and pension plans. The company has revised its retirement benefits to align with new economic realities, potentially affecting employees' long-term financial planning. These changes underscore the importance of staying updated on how shifts in company policies could influence personal financial strategies. Understanding these adjustments is crucial in the current economic and investment climate, as it impacts both individual retirement planning and overall job security. Being informed about such developments helps employees and investors make more strategic decisions in response to the evolving landscape of company benefits and economic conditions.

MGM Resorts International offers stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to key executives and employees based on performance and tenure. The company uses the acronyms "SO" for Stock Options and "RSU" for Restricted Stock Units. Information about these benefits can be found in the annual reports and SEC filings.

Healthcare Coverage: MGM Resorts provides a range of health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They offer multiple plan options to suit various needs, with benefits such as preventive care, mental health services, and wellness programs. Wellness Programs: The company promotes wellness through programs such as fitness reimbursements, health screenings, and access to employee assistance programs (EAPs). Acronyms & Terms: Commonly used terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), and EAP (Employee Assistance Program).

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

https://finance.yahoo.com/ https://www.marketwatch.com/ https://www.businessinsider.com/ https://www.reuters.com/ https://www.cnbc.com/world/?region=world https://www.bloomberg.com/asia https://www.pbgc.gov/

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