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Autoliv Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Autoliv For Autoliv employees, the primary healthcare provider associated with their benefits package is Blue Cross Blue Shield. Employees may access various plans under this provider, which often include options tailored to meet a range of healthcare needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As Autoliv employees prepare for 2026, they should brace for potential healthcare costs significantly increasing due to various market pressures. Premium rates in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace are projected to rise sharply, with some states experiencing hikes of over 60%. Additionally, the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies will likely result in over 75% of enrollees facing much higher out-of-pocket premiums. This one-two punch of soaring insurer rate hikes and lost subsidies means Autoliv employees may see a substantial increase in their healthcare expenses, requiring careful planning and benefit assessment to mitigate financial strains in the coming year. Click here to learn more

'Autoliv 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.

'Autoliv 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.' Autoliv 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. Autoliv 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 Autoliv 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 Autoliv 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 Autoliv 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 Autoliv 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 Autoliv 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 Autoliv 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 purpose of Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The purpose of Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary to a tax-advantaged account.

How can I enroll in Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can enroll in Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Autoliv offer a company match for contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Autoliv offers a company match for contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What are the contribution limits for Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The contribution limits for Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan are set annually by the IRS, and employees should refer to the plan documents or HR for the current limits.

Can I change my contribution amount to Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, you can change your contribution amount to Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, typically through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.

When can I start withdrawing from my Autoliv 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can start withdrawing from your Autoliv 401(k) Savings Plan without penalties at age 59½, although you may be able to take loans or hardship withdrawals earlier under certain conditions.

What investment options are available in Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose investments that align with their retirement goals.

Is there a vesting schedule for Autoliv's 401(k) company match?

Yes, Autoliv has a vesting schedule for the company match in the 401(k) Savings Plan, which determines how much of the matched contributions you own based on your years of service.

How often can I review my investment choices in Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can review and change your investment choices in Autoliv's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, typically through the plan's online platform.

What happens to my Autoliv 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Autoliv, you can roll over your 401(k) Savings Plan balance to another retirement account, cash it out, or leave it in the plan if you meet certain criteria.

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

News: Autoliv has announced a restructuring plan to optimize its operations, which includes layoffs and consolidations across several global locations. Importance: This restructuring is crucial to monitor due to its impact on employment and benefits within the company, reflecting broader trends in the automotive industry as companies adjust to economic uncertainties and evolving market demands. Additionally, these changes could influence pension and 401(k) plans, making it essential for stakeholders to stay informed.