Diamondback Energy Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Diamondback Energy
Diamondback Energy partners with UnitedHealthcare as its healthcare provider. This relationship is significant as UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest health insurers in the United States, offering a comprehensive range of plans that cater to the diverse needs of Diamondback's workforce.
Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026
In 2026, the healthcare landscape is anticipated to face considerable challenges, particularly for Diamondback Energy and its employees. With health insurance premiums for ACA marketplace plans projected to rise sharply-potentially by over 75% for many enrollees-the impact of expiring federal premium subsidies will be profoundly felt. This scenario is compounded by rising medical costs, with forecasts suggesting that many states may experience increases as steep as 66%, significantly affecting overall healthcare affordability for Diamondback's workforce. As these changes unfold, it is crucial for companies like Diamondback Energy to strategize on managing healthcare-related expenses effectively to support their employees amidst a fluctuating market.
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'Diamondback Energy 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.
'Diamondback Energy 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.' Diamondback Energy 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. Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy 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 Diamondback Energy offer?
Diamondback Energy offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.
Is there a company match for contributions to the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?
Yes, Diamondback Energy provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, enhancing your retirement savings.
How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?
Employees can enroll in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What is the eligibility requirement to participate in Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan?
Most employees at Diamondback Energy are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.
What investment options are available in Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan?
Diamondback Energy's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Diamondback Energy?
Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan at any time, subject to certain guidelines.
Does Diamondback Energy offer loans against the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Diamondback Energy allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) plan balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
How often can I change my investment allocations in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan?
Employees can change their investment allocations in the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan as frequently as they wish, typically through the plan’s online portal.
What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Diamondback Energy?
If you leave Diamondback Energy, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Diamondback plan if eligible.
Are there any fees associated with the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the Diamondback Energy 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
For Diamondback Energy, the company offers a 401(k) plan under the name "Diamondback Energy 401(k) Plan" with eligibility based on service and age requirements that vary slightly depending on employee classification. The company uses industry-specific terminology and acronyms, including "FANG" as its stock symbol and commonly referring to its operations as part of the Permian Basin. For its pension plan offerings, while there is no traditional defined benefit pension available, Diamondback provides substantial retirement contributions through its 401(k) plan, matching employee contributions up to 6% of salary (Diamondback Energy) (Diamondback Energy).
Regarding the years of service and age qualification, employees typically become eligible for Diamondback Energy’s 401(k) match after completing one year of service. The matching contributions are vested gradually, with full vesting occurring after 5 years of service. While detailed documentation does not explicitly list a traditional pension formula, the 401(k) match is a significant part of their retirement strategy
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Diamondback Energy announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. The plan included a reduction of 5% in workforce to align with the company's strategic goals and to enhance operational efficiency. This restructuring was influenced by fluctuating oil prices and the need to adapt to a more competitive market. Given the current economic environment, understanding these changes is crucial for investors and employees to make informed decisions.
In 2022, Diamondback Energy provided stock options and RSUs to senior executives and key employees. The RSUs typically vest over a four-year period. Eligibility was determined based on performance and tenure.
Company Official Website: For the most direct and accurate information on Diamondback Energy's health benefits.
Industry News Sources: Reputable news outlets that cover employee benefits and changes in healthcare policies within the industry.
Employment and Benefits Websites: Sites like Glassdoor, Indeed, or LinkedIn for employee reviews and company benefit details.
Company Reports: Annual reports or benefits summaries released by Diamondback Energy.
Healthcare and Insurance Providers: Websites of insurance providers that partner with Diamondback Energy, if available.
Additional Articles
Check Out Articles for Diamondback Energy employees
For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Diamondback Energy at 500 West Texas Ave, Suite 1200 Midland, TX 79701; or by calling them at (432) 221-7400.
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