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What IDEX Employees Should Know About the Latest Fed Rate Cut

Healthcare Provider Update: IDEX provides medical, dental, and vision insurance through national and regional carriers. Employees benefit from prescription drug coverage, HSAs, FSAs, and company-paid life insurance. The company offers a 401(k) with matching and standalone contributions, tuition assistance, and wellness programs. Community involvement is encouraged through the IDEX Foundation 9. IDEX With ACA premiums projected to rise sharply, IDEXs competitive benefits and community-focused support help employees avoid the financial burden of marketplace plans. Click here to learn more

'IDEX 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, IDEX 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 IDEX 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 IDEX 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 IDEX 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 IDEX 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 IDEX 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 type of retirement plan does IDEX offer to its employees?

IDEX offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

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

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

Does IDEX offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, IDEX provides matching contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the maximum contribution limit for IDEX employees participating in the 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for IDEX employees is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for specific limits.

Are there any vesting requirements for the employer match in IDEX's 401(k) plan?

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

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

Yes, IDEX 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 IDEX's 401(k) plan?

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

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

IDEX employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as specified in the plan documents.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave IDEX?

If you leave IDEX, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the IDEX plan if eligible.

Is there a penalty for withdrawing funds from my IDEX 401(k) before retirement age?

Yes, there is typically a penalty for early withdrawals from the IDEX 401(k) plan, in addition to regular income taxes.

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: IDEX Corporation does not have a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, they primarily offer defined contribution plans, including 401(k) plans. Years of Service and Age Qualification: IDEX Corporation generally does not offer a traditional pension plan; thus, there are no specific criteria for years of service or age for pension benefits. Pension Formula: Not applicable as IDEX Corporation focuses on 401(k) plans. 401(k) Plan Information Name of 401(k) Plan: IDEX Corporation’s 401(k) plan is generally referred to as the "IDEX 401(k) Plan." Who Qualifies: Employees typically become eligible for the 401(k) plan after completing a probationary period, which is often six months of service. Company Contribution: IDEX Corporation may offer a company match to employee contributions, though specific match percentages and contribution limits should be verified in the most recent plan documents.

IDEX Announces Restructuring Plan: In March 2024, IDEX announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. The plan involves the closure of several non-core facilities and a reduction in workforce. This move is part of IDEX’s strategy to focus on its core business areas and improve operational efficiency. Source: Reuters

IDEX provided stock options (SO) and restricted stock units (RSU) for its employees as part of its compensation package in 2022. IDEX stock options are typically available to senior management and key employees based on performance and tenure. IDEX RSUs were granted to select employees as part of their long-term incentive plan.

Recent Changes: In 2023, IDEX increased their health benefits offerings by expanding telemedicine services and adding more preventive care benefits. They also adjusted their premium contributions to ease the financial burden on employees. Healthcare Trends: There has been a notable shift towards incorporating mental health resources and virtual care solutions into employee benefit programs.

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for IDEX employees

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

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