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Antero Resources Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock

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'Antero Resources employees with concentrated stock positions may benefit from thoughtful tax planning that allows for tax deferral while balancing liquidity, compliance, and long-term compounding,' Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Antero Resources employees who hold highly-appreciated stock may want to consider tax-efficient strategies that help mitigate their liabilities while aligning with their overall retirement goals,' Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How taxes can affect investment returns, particularly on concentrated stock positions.
Exchange funds and options-based strategies as methods for tax deferral and diversification.
Alternative planning techniques outside ETFs, including charitable trusts and gifting strategies.

By Carlos Hernandez, Wealth Enhancement advisor

When it comes to driving portfolio returns, many investors aim to keep management fees low by investing in low-cost index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). While fees matter, however, the real culprit for lower-than-anticipated performance is taxes. ¹

Wealth Enhancement advisor Carlos Hernandez explains: 'By losing less to taxes each year, investors have access to more capital that can continue to compound over time. This makes tax deferral an important part of an effective financial plan.' Antero Resources employees looking for long-term growth strategies could benefit by understanding how to better manage their investment tax burdens.

Trade Money

One area where taxes can take a toll is on the sale of company stock or other concentrated investment positions. Antero Resources professionals looking to diversify could face significant capital gains taxes on an outright sale. One way to diversify without triggering immediate capital gains is through exchange funds. By contributing their highy-appreciated stock to a pooled fund, investors can trade their concentrated holdings for shares in a diverse basket of securities. This method can be used by Antero Resources employees who want to diversify while postponing taxable events.

Although this method allows for tax deferral, it also requires investors to hold the exchange fund for a period of time, typically seven years. ² This could create a challenge for investors who require liquidity. Additionally, these funds are often exclusively accessible to wealthy, accredited investors—something Antero Resources executives should carefully evaluate.

Funds Based on Options

Another way to mitigate taxes on the sale of highly-appreciated stock is by using options contracts. The idea is to hedge risk with put options while covering the cost of those puts by selling call options—a strategy called 'collaring'. From there, the strategy reverses, with investors selling put options and using the proceeds to buy call option on an equity or bond index. ³ If managed effectively, this helps to diversify a concentrated portfolio while still maintaining liquidity.

Given the complexity of this strategy, meticulous planning is necessary. It's generally recommended that investors work with an experienced financial advisor before pursuing this approach.

Things to Be Aware of

Although these strategies can be beneficial for Antero Resources employees who hold highly-appreciated stock, caution is recommended. There are costs associated with these approaches, and potential liquidity risks. Additionally, the IRS may eventually contest such arrangements because their tax status has not been thoroughly examined—something Antero Resources retirees should keep top of mind.

'Tax drag reduction strategies can be effective, but they must be assessed through the lens of risk, liquidity, cost, and compliance,' warns Carlos Hernandez. What is appealing in theory must hold up to inspection in the real world.

Alternative Strategies

Although they show promise, investors with highly-appreciated stock or those looking to postpone gains have other alternatives besides exchange funds or options. Other tactics could include:

- Prepaid variable forwards (subject to IRS regulations, contracts to sell at predetermined terms in the future).
- Charitable remainder trusts (CRTs), which allow investors to donate appreciated stock to a charitable trust and receive a stream of regular income in return.
- Donor-advised funds (DAFs), which provide investors with a tax deduction for the fair market value of the appreciated stock they donate.
- Other gifting techniques, such as direct donations to charity or family.
Each has its own set of guidelines, advantages, and disadvantages. To limit unnecessary taxes or violating the constructive sale regulations, careful planning is necessary for Antero Resources professionals managing complex portfolios.

The Bottom Line

Although the movement to mitigate the tax burden on investments is not new, the instruments are changing. Both exchange funds and options-based structures offer investors a way to manage tax liabilities, especially for Antero Resources employees who hold highly-appreciated stock.

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In the end, taxes are unavoidable. However, with the correct set of instruments, they can be controlled and postponed. 'The real value comes from aligning tax strategy with investment strategy,' summarizes Carlos Hernandez.

Sources:

1. BlackRock Advisor Center. ' Investing for After-Tax Returns ,' 2025.

2. Kiplinger. ' Four Clever and Tax-Efficient Ways to Ditch Concentrated Stock Holdings ,' by Robert Waskiewicz. Sep. 11, 2025.

3. Financial Planning Association. ' Tax-Efficient Ways to Diversify Concentrated Stock Positions ,' by Peter Lazaroff. Oct. 2024.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Antero Resources?

The 401(k) plan at Antero Resources is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, helping to build a nest egg for retirement.

How can I enroll in Antero Resources' 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Antero Resources' 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal during the open enrollment period or when they first become eligible.

Does Antero Resources offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Antero Resources offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps to enhance your retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Antero Resources' 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Antero Resources' 401(k) plan is determined by IRS regulations, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest guidelines for the current limit.

Can I change my contribution percentage in Antero Resources' 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to Antero Resources' 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

What investment options are available in Antero Resources' 401(k) plan?

Antero Resources' 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.

When can I access my funds from Antero Resources' 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically access their funds from Antero Resources' 401(k) plan upon reaching retirement age, or in cases of hardship or termination of employment, subject to specific plan rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for Antero Resources' 401(k) company match?

Yes, Antero Resources has a vesting schedule for the company match in the 401(k) plan, meaning employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How does Antero Resources communicate changes to the 401(k) plan?

Antero Resources communicates changes to the 401(k) plan through official company emails, benefits newsletters, and updates on the employee benefits portal.

Can I take a loan against my 401(k) at Antero Resources?

Yes, Antero Resources allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

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

Antero Resources has announced a significant restructuring plan that includes layoffs and a review of employee benefits. The company is focusing on optimizing operations and reducing costs. Additionally, Antero is reassessing its pension and 401(k) contributions in light of current market conditions.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Antero Resources at 1615 Wynkoop St Denver, CO 80202; or by calling them at (303) 357-7310.