Delek US Holdings Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock
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'Delek US Holdings 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.
'Delek US Holdings 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.
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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.' Delek US Holdings 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. Delek US Holdings 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 Delek US Holdings 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.
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This could create a challenge for investors who require liquidity. Additionally, these funds are often exclusively accessible to wealthy, accredited investors—something Delek US Holdings 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.
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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 Delek US Holdings 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 Delek US Holdings 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 Delek US Holdings 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 Delek US Holdings employees who hold highly-appreciated stock.
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.
What type of retirement plan does Delek US Holdings offer to its employees?
Delek US Holdings offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of Delek US Holdings enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Delek US Holdings can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does Delek US Holdings match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Delek US Holdings provides a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Delek US Holdings?
The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Delek US Holdings follows the IRS guidelines, which can change annually. Employees should check the current limits each year.
Can employees of Delek US Holdings take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, Delek US Holdings allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.
What investment options are available in the Delek US Holdings 401(k) plan?
The 401(k) plan at Delek US Holdings offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Delek US Holdings 401(k) plan?
Employees of Delek US Holdings can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan on a quarterly basis, or as specified in the plan documents.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Delek US Holdings 401(k) plan?
Yes, Delek US Holdings has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which determines how much of the matched contributions employees are entitled to based on their length of service.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Delek US Holdings?
If an employee leaves Delek US Holdings, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.
Can employees of Delek US Holdings access their 401(k) funds while still employed?
Employees of Delek US Holdings may be able to access their 401(k) funds through hardship withdrawals, depending on the circumstances and the plan’s rules.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Delek US Holdings offers a 401(k) plan for its employees with several features aimed at enhancing retirement savings. Employees are eligible for the company 401(k) plan, which allows them to make pre-tax contributions from their salary. The contribution limits follow the IRS guidelines, which increased to $22,500 for 2023 and $23,000 for 2024. Delek provides a matching contribution up to a specific percentage, although details on the precise matching percentage for 2022-2024 were not readily available. Their 401(k) plan is known to include options for traditional and Roth 401(k) contributions, giving employees flexibility in how they save for retirement. Employees are typically eligible for this plan from the start of employment (SEC.gov) (SEC.gov).
For pensions, Delek US Holdings does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan to all employees but focuses on their defined contribution 401(k) plan instead. This structure is more common in modern corporate retirement offerings, especially in the refining and logistics sectors. Their focus is on matching contributions and enhancing the overall retirement package through the 401(k) system
Delek US Holdings Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Delek US Holdings announced a significant restructuring initiative aimed at streamlining its operations. This move includes a reduction in workforce by approximately 10% across its various divisions. The company stated that these layoffs are part of a broader effort to enhance operational efficiency and align with its strategic goals in a challenging economic environment. Importance: Given the current economic uncertainties, such as fluctuating oil prices and geopolitical tensions, it is crucial for employees and stakeholders to stay informed about these changes. The restructuring could impact job security, benefits, and future company performance, making it essential to monitor how these developments unfold.
Delek US Holdings offers a range of stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) through its long-term incentive plans, primarily focused on motivating key employees and aligning their interests with shareholders. These awards are part of the company’s broader equity incentive plan, which was initially approved in 2017 and updated in 2018.
The RSUs and stock options are granted under the Delek US Holdings Equity Incentive Plan and are designed to promote long-term commitment and performance. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, eligible employees received these awards based on their role and performance, with awards vesting over a period of four years. The stock options are tied to the company’s Class A common stock, while performance share units (PSUs) and performance units (PUs) are aligned with total shareholder return (TSR) relative to industry peers.
Health Benefits Overview: Delek US Holdings’ official website provides a broad overview of their benefits package. Key elements often include medical, dental, and vision insurance, health savings accounts (HSAs), flexible spending accounts (FSAs), and wellness programs.
Recent Updates: The website may have recent updates about changes in healthcare plans or enhancements in coverage for 2023 or 2024.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Delek US Holdings at 7102 Commerce Way Brentwood, TN 37027; or by calling them at (615) 771-6701.
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