New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

What Flowserve Employees Should Know About the Latest Fed Rate Cut

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Flowserve Flowserve Corporation partners with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield to provide healthcare plans and services for its employees. Anthem is noted for its extensive provider network and range of health insurance options, which includes access to various plans tailored to meet the diverse needs of Flowserve's workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are poised to escalate significantly, driven by expected record premium hikes in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With premium increases averaging 18% and some states experiencing hikes exceeding 60%, the impact on Flowserve employees could be notable. The expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies adds to the financial burden, potentially resulting in out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75% for many workers, raising concerns about accessibility and affordability of essential healthcare services as we move into the next year. Click here to learn more

'Flowserve 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, Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve offer to its employees?

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

How can Flowserve employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Flowserve employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Flowserve match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Flowserve offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution percentage that Flowserve employees can contribute to their 401(k)?

Flowserve employees can contribute up to the IRS limit, which is adjusted annually. Employees should check the latest guidelines for the current limit.

Are there any eligibility requirements for Flowserve employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Flowserve employees must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as a minimum length of service, to participate in the 401(k) plan.

Can Flowserve employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Flowserve allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What investment options are available in Flowserve's 401(k) plan?

Flowserve offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How often can Flowserve employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Flowserve employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at designated times throughout the year, typically during open enrollment periods.

Is there a vesting schedule for Flowserve's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Flowserve has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, which determines when employees fully own those contributions.

Can Flowserve employees access their 401(k) funds before retirement?

Flowserve employees may access their 401(k) funds before retirement under certain circumstances, such as hardship withdrawals or loans.

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

Flowserve Corporation offers a Defined Benefit Pension Plan known as the Flowserve Corporation Pension Plan, which is a traditional pension plan. This plan provides a monthly retirement benefit to participants based on a formula that takes into account years of service and compensation. The normal retirement age is typically the time when these benefits begin, and the plan follows a "cash balance" formula. This means that the benefits are calculated similarly to those in a defined contribution plan, with the accrued benefit expressed in terms like a single sum distribution amount (QDRO.com). The Flowserve 401(k) plan is another retirement benefit available to employees. The plan includes matching contributions, with Flowserve matching 75% of the employee's contributions up to 6% of their salary. Employees can contribute both pre-tax and Roth contributions to the 401(k). Catch-up contributions are available for employees over the age of 50. In 2023, the contribution limit for individuals under 50 was $22,500, while those over 50 could contribute an additional $7,500

Restructuring: In February 2023, Flowserve announced significant management changes as part of its ongoing restructuring efforts. This restructuring is aligned with its strategy to diversify, decarbonize, and digitize operations. The restructuring included executive shifts and operational changes aimed at improving efficiency and meeting the company's long-term sustainability goals. Benefits and 401(k) Changes: Flowserve continues to offer comprehensive benefits, including retirement planning options such as 401(k) plans. While no major changes have been announced for 2024, the company maintains a robust benefits package designed to support its employees' financial well-being.

Flowserve Corporation provides stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its employees as part of its equity compensation program. The specific stock options and RSUs available to Flowserve employees are designed to incentivize long-term commitment and align employee interests with company performance. For stock options, Flowserve typically grants options that allow employees to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, usually set at the market price on the grant date. These options generally vest over several years, meaning employees must remain with the company for a specific period before they can exercise the options. The company uses the acronym "ESOs" (Employee Stock Options) to refer to this program. Regarding RSUs, Flowserve awards these units as a form of deferred compensation. RSUs do not require employees to purchase the stock; instead, the units are converted into actual shares once they vest, which occurs over a set period or upon meeting specific performance targets. These RSUs are often part of a broader performance-based incentive structure, ensuring that employees contribute to the company’s growth and success over the long term. The acronym "RSU" is used for Restricted Stock Units in Flowserve's compensation documents.

Flowserve provides a comprehensive range of health benefits designed to support the physical, mental, and financial well-being of its employees. The health benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA). The company also offers short- and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and parental leave. Some of the healthcare-related terms associated with Flowserve include FSA, HSA, and AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) insurance. Benefits may vary depending on location and collective bargaining agreements

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Flowserve employees

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

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