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6 Retirement Myths Every Fox Employee Should Rethink

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'Fox employees should view retirement planning as an opportunity to enhance long-term clarity and resilience by challenging outdated myths and aligning financial decisions with their personal goals.' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'For Fox employees aiming to build financial confidence, it can help to realize that retirement success often comes from balancing disciplined financial management with meaningful life choices.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

Common retirement myths that may affect financial decisions.
How charitable giving, spending, and debt management can shape retirement strategies.
Overlooked risks, such as fraud, that may be more damaging than market downturns.

There are several myths related to retirement finance that have the potential to jeopardize even the most meticulously crafted financial strategies. Last quarter, for instance, we debunked the idea that bond allocations should match your age and that retirees should never touch principal. Misconceptions about retirement planning, however, go far beyond outdated guidelines.

Here, we look at six common myths that can influence retirement decision-making and aim to dispel them before they affect the financial well-being of Fox employees.

Myth 1: Making a Large Splurge Is Not Acceptable

It's commonly believed that spending large amounts of money too soon in retirement is irresponsible and should be strongly discouraged. This isn't always the case, though.

'Enjoying the results of your hard work is what retirement is all about,' says Wealth Enhancement advisor Wesley Boudreaux. 'One well-considered investment won't ruin your future if you've laid a solid foundation.'

Take the case of a person who has saved $3 million and plans to withdraw roughly 4% annually, which comes to about $120,000 a year. The total balance falls to $2.95 million if the person decides to buy a $50,000 recreational vehicle to realize a lifelong goal. The reward of reaching a significant life goal likely outweighs the $2,000 reduction in the sustainable yearly withdrawal that results from this modification. Intentionality is the fundamental difference: a planned, one-time expense is not the same as ongoing discretionary spending that undermines long-term consistency—a lesson relevant for Fox retirees envisioning lifestyle goals.

Myth 2: You Should Only Give Money to Charities After You Die

Many people believe that bequests are the most effective way to give to charities. However, waiting until death is not always the best course of action, even though donating assets to charity through estate planning is a noble goal.

Carlos Hernandez, a Wealth Enhancement financial advisor, observes, 'The estate tax exemption is almost $14 million per individual today.' ¹ This generally exempts many estates from federal estate tax. The upshot? By waiting until death to donate, you might miss advantages you could have right now.

Giving during one’s lifetime has many benefits. It can reduce an estate's size, lower current taxable income, and provide the personal satisfaction of witnessing charitable contributions in action. Donors can feel the direct effects of their gift while they are still alive by establishing a scholarship, setting up a community shelter, or funding a local program. This can create both tax efficiency and emotional gratification for Fox employees interesting in pursuing long-term philanthropic strategies.

Myth 3: You Should Save Everything for Your Heirs and Spend Less

Although modest spending practices are generally recommended, being overly frugal in retirement might result in regrets and lost opportunities.

According to Boudreaux, 'Far too many people undervalue themselves by treating retirement as just another stage of accumulation. A life well-lived is what your savings are supposed to support.'

Decades of financial resources are meant to be used meaningfully in addition to being preserved. Beyond inheritance, thoughtful financial support can offer advantages such as financing family vacations, helping adult children with a down payment on a house, or contributing to grandchildren's education funds. For Fox workers approaching retirement, these investments in opportunities and experiences may yield greater satisfaction than leaving behind a larger inheritance.

Myth 4: Before You Can Retire, You Must Pay Off Your Mortgage

Although it is a compelling goal, it's not always financially advantageous to enter retirement debt-free.

Hernandez says, 'When properly managed, mortgage debt can be a strategic tool.' Low interest rates may compare favorably to investment returns, and interest is frequently tax deductible. Furthermore, paying off a mortgage with tax-advantaged retirement assets may result in needless taxes and possibly place retirees in a higher tax bracket.

The choice should be based on weighing the prospective growth of unaltered investments against the after-tax cost of holding mortgage debt. While putting money into investment accounts may improve long-term financial results, for certain households, ongoing mortgage payments maintain liquidity and flexibility. For Fox families, the right decision depends on evaluating your broader financial picture rather than making a blanket assumption about debt.

Myth 5: You Should Never Take Out a Reverse Mortgage

Despite their reputation for predatory behavior, ² reverse mortgages are now strictly regulated financial instruments. They can give homeowners 62 years of age or older access to their home equity without necessitating a sale or producing taxable income.

'A reverse mortgage can be helpful for the right retiree—supplementing income, helping cover health care costs, or reducing the need to draw from investments during market downturns,' Boudreaux explains, adding that they are not for everyone.

The proceeds are usually not regarded as taxable income because they are structured as a loan. In some cases, this can result in meaningful tax savings. But careful consideration is essential. Long-term objectives, estate planning factors, and household financial dynamics must all be taken into account when implementing a reverse mortgage. Fox employees should consult trusted advisors before deciding if this tool fits their retirement plan.

Myth 6: Your Greatest Financial Risk Is a Stock Market Crash

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Market downturns frequently make the news, escalating retirement worries. Yet, even though it can be unnerving, volatility isn't always the biggest risk to long-term financial health.

Hernandez says, 'Diversification and careful planning help cushion market downturns. But fraud and scams are among the most underrated threats.'

Con artists commonly use text messages, emails, and phone calls to target older individuals. Scammers take advantage of weaknesses, such as cognitive deterioration, to obtain personal information or money. ³ Financial losses resulting from fraud can quickly damage a retirement fund, frequently more severely than a brief drop in the stock market. Fox retirees should remain cautious by safeguarding personal information, rejecting unverified payment requests, and confirming suspicious communications with trusted advisors.

Retirement Is Individual

Dispelling these six fallacies reveals an important reality: retirement preparation is very personal. Decisions that depend on particular conditions can be oversimplified by general guidelines and recommendations.

Boudreaux highlights that each retiree has distinct objectives, family dynamics, and risk tolerances. 'For this reason, a customized strategy is more important than merely adhering to general myths.'

The objective is to use your savings wisely—to support your lifestyle, your loved ones, and the causes that are most important to you—rather than merely preserving them, Hernandez adds.

Retirement ought to be viewed as a living strategy that is adaptable, flexible, and representative of individual priorities. By moving past outdated beliefs, Fox retirees can approach their financial prospects with clarity, resilience, and the freedom that retirement was intended to offer.

According to recent behavioral finance research, retirees who are financially literate, optimistic, future-oriented, and reward-focused are more proactive in their retirement planning—qualities that can be developed over time. People who possessed these traits were less stressed about money and had a tendency to save more regularly. Even though just about 10% of respondents had all four qualities, the study shows that cultivating them may help enhance retirement results. ⁴

Closing Analogy

Retirement planning is similar to driving across the country. Myths like 'every detour is dangerous,' 'fuel should never be used for a scenic stop,' and 'the journey must end with a perfectly full tank' are examples of out-of-date maps that can lead people astray. Knowing when to share resources along the journey, when to save for unforeseen circumstances, and when to savor a meaningful pause are all essential components of true success. For Fox employees, the path ahead becomes smoother and more rewarding when outdated misconceptions are replaced with well-informed tactics.

Sources:

1. IRS, ' Estate tax ,' October 29, 2024.

2. Bankrate, ' Reverse mortgage scams: What they are and how to avoid them ,' by Kacie Goff, June 9, 2025.

3. FBI, ' Elder Fraud ,' 2025.

4. Goldman Sachs Asset Management, ' Retirement Mindset Matters ,' October 2023.

How does 21st Century Fox America Inc. determine the funding status of its pension plan, and what key metrics are utilized in evaluating its financial health? Employees may want to understand the significance of the Funding Target Attainment Percentage and how it influences their retirement benefits, especially as it pertains to both the general and specific circumstances affecting funding levels.

Funding Status and Metrics: 21st Century Fox America Inc. determines the funding status of its pension plan by calculating the Funding Target Attainment Percentage (FTAP), which divides the plan’s net assets by its liabilities. For the 2022 plan year, the FTAP was 125.79%. This metric is crucial because it indicates how well the plan is funded. A high FTAP suggests that the plan is well-funded and capable of meeting its obligations, which directly influences employees' retirement security(21st Century Fox Americ…).

What considerations does 21st Century Fox America Inc. take into account when deciding the investment strategies for its pension plan? Employees should be informed about the policy guidelines that govern the allocation of the plan's assets, including which asset classes are prioritized and the expected outcomes from such investment decisions.

Investment Strategy Considerations: The company follows specific investment policies that establish guidelines for asset allocation within the pension plan. These policies ensure that assets are allocated among major categories like equities, fixed income, and cash. The fiduciaries of the plan determine the target ranges for each category, aiming for stable returns and long-term viability(21st Century Fox Americ…).

How can employees of 21st Century Fox America Inc. assess their rights and the processes involved should the pension plan terminate? This includes evaluating the stipulations provided by federal laws that dictate what happens to vested benefits upon termination and what steps participants can take to secure their entitlements.

Rights and Pension Termination: Should the pension plan terminate, federal law requires 21st Century Fox America Inc. to follow certain procedures. If fully funded, the plan would undergo a standard termination, where an insurance company provides annuities, or a lump sum may be offered. In underfunded cases, a distress termination could occur, where the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) takes over(21st Century Fox Americ…).

What are the recent changes in federal regulations influencing how pension plans, such as the one at 21st Century Fox America Inc., calculate their liabilities? Employees need to grasp the implications of these regulations on their future benefits, specifically regarding the new methodologies for determining financial sufficiency.

Impact of Federal Regulations: Recent changes in federal regulations, including the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, adjusted the methodologies for calculating pension liabilities. Plans now incorporate a 25-year interest rate average, which typically results in higher interest rates and lower liabilities, affecting the funding status and employer contributions(21st Century Fox Americ…).

In the context of 21st Century Fox America Inc., what is the role of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) in guaranteeing pension benefits, and what are the criteria for ensuring benefits remain secure? Understanding how the PBGC functions and its limits is critical for employees planning their retirements.

Role of PBGC: The PBGC provides a guarantee for vested pension benefits in the event of plan termination. The guarantee is subject to legal limits, which vary depending on the participant’s age and the plan’s termination date. For 2023, the maximum annual benefit for a 65-year-old retiree was $81,000(21st Century Fox Americ…).

What steps can employees take to access information related to their pension plan from 21st Century Fox America Inc., and how can they ensure they receive timely updates regarding their benefits? Details about the channels available for inquiries and the importance of keeping informed about funding levels and benefits are crucial.

Accessing Pension Information: Employees can access information about their pension plan through the Disney Benefits Center by calling (800) 354-3970. Staying informed about the plan’s funding levels and benefits is essential, and employees are encouraged to review the annual funding notice for updates(21st Century Fox Americ…).

How does 21st Century Fox America Inc. manage the risks associated with its pension investments, particularly in a volatile market climate? Employees could benefit from insights into risk management strategies and how they affect long-term pension viability.

Risk Management in Investments: To manage investment risks, 21st Century Fox America Inc. adheres to a diversified asset allocation strategy. This approach helps mitigate market volatility and ensures the long-term sustainability of pension benefits despite changing economic conditions(21st Century Fox Americ…).

In what ways can a participant's years of service and salary history with 21st Century Fox America Inc. affect their retirement benefits, and what mechanisms are in place to ensure accurate benefit calculations? Exploring the relationship between service, salary, and pension outcomes can help clarify employee expectations.

Service and Salary Impact on Benefits: The pension plan is structured to account for employees' years of service and salary history in calculating their retirement benefits. These factors directly affect the benefit amount, and the plan ensures that accurate records are maintained to reflect this information(21st Century Fox Americ…).

What unique benefits does 21st Century Fox America Inc. offer that may enhance its pension plan, and how can employees maximize their advantages while planning for retirement? Understanding available supplemental benefits can empower employees in their retirement planning journeys.

Enhancing Pension Benefits: Employees of 21st Century Fox America Inc. may benefit from supplemental retirement benefits, including early retirement options or disability benefits. Understanding and maximizing these options can significantly impact long-term retirement planning(21st Century Fox Americ…).

How can employees of 21st Century Fox America Inc. get in touch with the Disney Benefits Center to inquire further about their employee benefits or to clarify any aspects of the pension plan? Having clear contact information and the process for accessing support can greatly assist employees in navigating their retirement preparation.

Contacting the Disney Benefits Center: Employees can reach out to the Disney Benefits Center at (800) 354-3970 for any inquiries related to their pension plan or other employee benefits. This resource is crucial for clarifying benefit details and addressing any concerns(21st Century Fox Americ…).

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

Fox Corporation offers a 401(k) plan and a pension plan to its employees. The 401(k) plan includes a company match, typically up to 4-6% of the employee's salary, with a partial match beyond that percentage. The company also offers a defined benefit pension plan, although specific details like the pension formula, years of service, or age qualifications were not detailed in the sources reviewed. However, Fox emphasizes comprehensive benefits, including financial security through retirement plans.

In 2023, Fox News underwent significant layoffs as part of a broader restructuring effort, largely driven by the financial strain following the $787.5 million lawsuit settlement with Dominion Voting Systems. These layoffs, including those from the investigative unit, are believed to be part of cost-cutting measures. This is critical to address due to the current economic and political environment, where the company must adjust to financial pressures while maintaining investor confidence and adapting to changing tax regulations.

Stock Options: Fox Corporation offers stock options that allow employees to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise or strike price, after the options have vested. Vesting periods for these options vary, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years. Once vested, employees can exercise their options within a specified period, generally up to 10 years from the grant date. The value of the stock options depends on the market price of Fox Corporation’s stock at the time of exercise; if the market price is higher than the exercise price, the options are "in the money" and can be profitable. Stock options at Fox are primarily available to executives and senior management, although some plans extend to other key employees depending on their role within the company. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs): Fox Corporation also provides RSUs, which represent a grant of company stock that is transferred to employees once the RSUs vest. Unlike stock options, RSUs do not require the employee to purchase the stock; instead, the shares are automatically granted at no cost upon vesting. The value of RSUs is more predictable, as it is tied directly to the market value of Fox Corporation’s stock at the time of vesting. The vested shares are considered taxable income and are typically subject to withholding for taxes. RSUs at Fox are usually granted to a broader group of employees, including executives, senior management, and other employees as part of their annual performance reviews or hiring packages.

Fox Corporation offers a comprehensive range of health benefits to its employees, which are designed to support their well-being from the first day of employment. The health benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, which are available without any waiting period for many positions. In addition to these core health benefits, Fox also provides flexible spending accounts (FSAs), life insurance, business travel insurance, and long-term disability insurance. Fox places a strong emphasis on whole-person health, including not just physical but also mental health support through their Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This reflects broader trends in employee health benefits, where companies are increasingly focusing on holistic wellness programs that address both physical and mental well-being, especially given the rising costs of healthcare and pharmaceuticals.

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

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