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Hub Group Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock

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'Hub Group 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.

'Hub Group 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.' Hub Group 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. Hub Group 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 Hub Group 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 Hub Group 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 Hub Group 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 Hub Group 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 Hub Group 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 Hub Group 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 Hub Group?

The 401(k) plan at Hub Group is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, helping them prepare for retirement.

Does Hub Group match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Hub Group offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement for Hub Group's 401(k) plan?

Employees at Hub Group are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, usually within the first year.

How can employees at Hub Group enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Hub Group's 401(k) plan through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of investment options are available in Hub Group's 401(k) plan?

Hub Group offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles tailored to different risk tolerances.

Can employees at Hub Group take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Hub Group allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Hub Group?

If you leave Hub Group, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) account to another retirement plan, cash it out, or leave it in the Hub Group plan, depending on your preferences and the plan's rules.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Hub Group 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their contribution amounts to Hub Group's 401(k) plan at any time, typically through the HR portal or by submitting a request to HR.

Is there a vesting schedule for Hub Group's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Hub Group has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, meaning employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Hub Group's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Hub Group's 401(k) plan is subject to IRS regulations, which may change annually. Employees should check with HR for the current limits.

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

Pension Plan Information Name of Pension Plan: Hub Group Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Generally, companies have specific criteria for years of service and age. This information is typically found in official plan documents. Pension Formula: The formula used to calculate pension benefits, which might include factors like years of service and final average salary. Specific Page Numbers: Document sources will be cited with page numbers. 401(k) Plan Information Name of 401(k) Plan: Hub Group 401(k) Savings Plan Who Qualifies: Eligibility criteria for participating in the 401(k) plan, which may include employment status or other criteria. Specific Page Numbers: Document sources will be cited with page numbers.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Hub Group announced a restructuring plan aimed at optimizing their operational efficiency. This plan included a significant reduction in the workforce as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and cut costs. The company cited changing market conditions and the need for increased agility in their operations as key reasons for these changes. Source: Logistics Management

Stock Options and RSUs: In 2022, Hub Group provided stock options and RSUs as part of their employee compensation packages. These options were typically granted to key executives and senior management. RSUs were often awarded based on performance metrics and time-based vesting schedules.

Official Hub Group Website: Visit Hub Group's official website and navigate to the "Careers" or "Employee Benefits" section. This section typically includes details on health benefits provided to employees. Glassdoor: Check employee reviews and benefits descriptions on Glassdoor. Reviews often include information on health insurance plans, wellness programs, and other benefits. Indeed: Similar to Glassdoor, Indeed has company reviews and employee benefits information. Search for Hub Group’s benefits section to gather details. LinkedIn: Review Hub Group’s LinkedIn page, where company updates and employee-related information might be posted. Look for any recent posts about employee health benefits.