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What Cisco Systems Employees Should Know About the Latest Fed Rate Cut

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'Cisco Systems 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, Cisco Systems 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 Cisco Systems 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 Cisco Systems 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 Cisco Systems 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 Cisco Systems 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 Cisco Systems 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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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 Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

The Cisco Systems 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

How can I enroll in the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan through the employee benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the employer match for the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

Cisco Systems offers a competitive employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of employee contributions up to a certain limit.

Are there any fees associated with the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

Yes, the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

What investment options are available in the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

The Cisco Systems 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

Can I take a loan from my Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees may have the option to take a loan from their Cisco Systems 401(k) plan, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What happens to my Cisco Systems 401(k) plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Cisco Systems, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or a new employer’s plan, or cashing it out.

At what age can I start withdrawing from my Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

You can typically start withdrawing from your Cisco Systems 401(k) plan without penalties at age 59½.

Does Cisco Systems offer financial counseling for 401(k) participants?

Yes, Cisco Systems may provide access to financial counseling services to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) investments.

How often can I change my contribution amount to the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically change their contribution amount to the Cisco Systems 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

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

Cisco Systems provides a 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Cisco matches 100% of the first 4.5% of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options such as target-date funds, mutual funds, and a self-directed brokerage account. Cisco also offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with a discount on company stock. Financial planning resources and tools are available to help employees manage their retirement savings.

Cisco is undergoing a major restructuring, which includes laying off thousands of employees to focus on high-growth markets like AI and cloud computing. The company is also planning to acquire Splunk Inc., which is expected to enhance its capabilities in these areas. Cisco offers a 401(k) plan with immediate enrollment and a range of health and wellness benefits for retirees. Staying updated on these benefits is crucial given the current political climate.

Cisco Systems offers both RSUs and stock options to employees. RSUs vest over time and convert into shares, while stock options allow employees to buy shares at a fixed price.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Cisco Systems at 170 W Tasman Dr San Jose, CA 95134; or by calling them at (408) 526-4000.