Healthcare Provider Update: Offers multiple High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) through UnitedHealthcare, with HSA contributions, dental (MetLife), vision, and wellness programs 1. As ACA premiums rise and subsidies expire, Energizers HDHPs with HSA support offer a tax-advantaged way to manage healthcare costs, especially for employees with predictable medical needs. Click here to learn more
'Energizer Holdings 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, Energizer Holdings 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:
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How recent Federal Reserve decisions could impact retirement and investment planning.
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The effects of interest rate cuts and balance sheet policy changes on borrowing, savings, and markets.
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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 Energizer Holdings 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 Energizer Holdings 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 Energizer Holdings 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:
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- Changes to prime rate-linked borrowing costs, such as adjustable rate mortgages, certain credit cards, and home equity lines of credit.
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- Lower returns on short-term fixed income vehicles, like money market funds, short-term Treasuries, and CDs.
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- Potential support for financial markets—particularly equities—depending on broader economic conditions, which may be relevant to Energizer Holdings 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 Energizer Holdings 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 type of retirement savings plan does Energizer Holdings offer to its employees?
Energizer Holdings offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
Does Energizer Holdings provide a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Energizer Holdings provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan?
Employees of Energizer Holdings are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.
Can employees of Energizer Holdings choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?
Yes, employees at Energizer Holdings can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions.
How does Energizer Holdings ensure that employees are informed about their 401(k) plan options?
Energizer Holdings provides educational materials, workshops, and access to financial advisors to help employees understand their 401(k) plan options.
Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan?
Yes, there is a vesting schedule for the company match in the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan, which determines how much of the match employees are entitled to based on their years of service.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan is in line with IRS guidelines, which may change annually.
Can employees of Energizer Holdings take loans against their 401(k) accounts?
Yes, Energizer Holdings allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions outlined in the plan.
What happens to an employee's 401(k) account if they leave Energizer Holdings?
If an employee leaves Energizer Holdings, they have several options for their 401(k) account, including cashing out, rolling it over to another retirement account, or leaving it in the Energizer Holdings plan if allowed.
Does Energizer Holdings offer any resources for retirement planning?
Yes, Energizer Holdings provides resources and tools for retirement planning, including access to financial advisors and online calculators.



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