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What Avis Budget Group Employees Should Know About the Latest Fed Rate Cut

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Avis Budget Group Avis Budget Group employees primarily receive their health insurance through Elevance Health, Inc., which offers various plans designed to meet the needs of the workforce. Anticipated Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, Avis Budget Group employees should prepare for potentially significant healthcare cost increases. With healthcare costs projected to rise sharply-driven by increased medical expenses and the possible expiration of enhanced ACA premium subsidies-workers may face greater out-of-pocket expenses. Reports suggest that over half of large employers plan to shift more healthcare costs onto employees, indicating that those at Avis Budget Group could see changes in benefit structures and increased deductibles. Proactive planning and understanding benefit changes will be crucial for workers seeking to mitigate the financial impact. Click here to learn more

'Avis Budget Group employees should recognize that recent rate shifts underscore the importance of regularly reviewing retirement cash flow plans and adapting to evolving economic conditions, rather than waiting for perfect data to act.' — Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'With the Federal Reserve adjusting rates despite limited economic data, Avis Budget Group employees should view this as a reminder to stay proactive and flexible in planning long-term retirement income strategies.' — Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How recent Federal Reserve decisions could impact retirement and investment planning.
The effects of interest rate cuts and balance sheet policy changes on borrowing, savings, and markets.
How The Retirement Group can assist with navigating these economic developments.

Important Takeaways

The Federal Reserve lowered the federal funds rate by 25 basis points at its most recent October meeting, even though the federal government shutdown caused delays in releasing key economic data. This development may be particularly relevant for Avis Budget Group employees who monitor economic trends for retirement and investment planning.

The benchmark federal funds rate was reduced to its lowest level since September 2022, and now ranges between 3.75% and 4.00%. ¹

Along with the rate cut, the Federal Reserve announced it would end its quantitative tightening (QT), or balance sheet reduction process.

These policy shifts may affect savings rates, short-term borrowing costs, and overall market behaviour—factors that could influence retirement decisions for Avis Budget Group employees.

The Fed’s Decision Despite Limited Data

The Federal Reserve typically relies on government-issued economic data to support policy decisions. However, during the government shutdown, many federal reports—including updates on employment and payroll growth—were paused. A delayed Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showed ~3% inflation in September. But no new unemployment or payroll data was available after early September. ²

Despite limited data, the Fed acted based on viewpoints shared at its September meeting, when many members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) signalled further rate cuts before year-end, supported by prior trends.

Before the shutdown began, interest rate levels were considered “restrictive”—meaning high enough to slow economic activity—and earlier reports signalled weakening labor market conditions that could be meaningful to Avis Budget Group employees.

What the Rate Cut Means for Consumers and Investors

While the Federal Reserve controls short-term interest rates, it does not directly set rates for mortgages, bonds, or certificates of deposit (CDs).

Typical short-term effects of a rate cut can include:

- Changes to prime rate-linked borrowing costs, such as adjustable rate mortgages, certain credit cards, and home equity lines of credit.
- Lower returns on short-term fixed income vehicles, like money market funds, short-term Treasuries, and CDs.
- Potential support for financial markets—particularly equities—depending on broader economic conditions, which may be relevant to Avis Budget Group retirement accounts or company stockholders.

Changes to the Federal Reserve’s Balance Sheet Strategy

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Reserve used quantitative easing (QE) to aid markets by purchasing large quantities of Treasury and mortgage-backed securities.

In 2022, the Fed shifted to quantitative tightening (QT), reducing its holdings primarily by not reinvesting maturing securities.

At its latest meeting, the Fed announced it would fully end QT rather than simply slow it.

Although these balance sheet adjustments may not be immediately obvious in day-to-day life, they can affect liquidity in the financial system and lending conditions, which may indirectly influence Avis Budget Group employees.

How The Retirement Group Can Assist

Understanding how interest rate cuts, inflation trends, and Federal Reserve policy affect your retirement savings can be challenging. The Retirement Group can help you review how these economic shifts may relate to pension options, investment income planning, and retirement strategies tailored to your situation. For help, you can reach us at (800) 900-5867.

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Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. nerdwallet. ' Fed Rate Drops for Second Time in 2025 ,' by Cara Smith. 21 Nov. 2025.

2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. ' Consumer Price Index ,' 24 Oct. 2025.

Other Resources:

1. Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. “Federal Reserve Issues FOMC Statement.” FederalReserve.gov, 29 Oct. 2025, https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20251029a.htm .

2. Schneider, Howard. “Fed Lowers Rates, but Powell Suggests Move May Be the Last of 2025.” Reuters, 29 Oct. 2025, https://www.reuters.com/business/fed-in-fog-it-heads-toward-another-rate-cut-2025-10-29/ .

3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “September 2025 CPI Release Rescheduled.” BLS.gov, 10 Oct. 2025, https://www.bls.gov/bls/092025-cpi-reschedule-notice.htm .

4. Ackerman, Andrew. “Consumer Prices in September Rise to a Pace Not Seen Since January.” The Washington Post, 24 Oct. 2025, https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/10/24/delayed-inflation-report-tariffs/ .

5. Foster, Sarah. “6 Ways the Fed’s Interest Rate Decisions Impact Your Money.” Bankrate, 2025, https://www.bankrate.com/banking/federal-reserve/how-federal-reserve-impacts-your-money/

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Avis Budget Group?

The 401(k) plan at Avis Budget Group is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How can employees at Avis Budget Group enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for guidance.

Does Avis Budget Group offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Avis Budget Group offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save for retirement more effectively.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan is determined by the IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

Can employees at Avis Budget Group change their contribution percentage?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s rules.

Are there any fees associated with the Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with the management of the Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

What investment options are available in the Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan?

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

When can employees at Avis Budget Group begin withdrawing from their 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically begin withdrawing from their Avis Budget Group 401(k) plan at age 59½, but specific conditions may apply.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Avis Budget Group?

If an employee leaves Avis Budget Group, they can roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account or withdraw the funds, subject to taxes and penalties.

Does Avis Budget Group provide financial education regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Avis Budget Group offers resources and financial education to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions.

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

Avis Budget Group announced a restructuring plan aimed at reducing operational costs and streamlining its operations. The plan includes potential layoffs as part of the effort to improve efficiency.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Avis Budget Group at 6 Sylvan Way Parsippany, NJ 7054; or by calling them at +1 973-496-4700.