New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Hubbell Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Hubbell Hubbell Incorporated typically partners with various health insurance providers depending on the specific employee benefits offered. Common providers in the industry include major insurers like Anthem, UnitedHealthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, among others. The exact provider details may vary by location and the workforce's coverage needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the healthcare landscape shifts in 2026, significant premium increases are anticipated for many consumers, influenced by a combination of rising medical costs and the potential expiration of enhanced federal ACA subsidies. With some states reporting premium hikes exceeding 60%, many families may face a staggering average rise of over 75% in their out-of-pocket costs. This perfect storm of factors challenges individuals and families to navigate an increasingly expensive healthcare environment, requiring strategic planning and early interventions to mitigate the financial impact. Click here to learn more

'Hubbell 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.

'Hubbell 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.' Hubbell 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. Hubbell 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 Hubbell 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 Hubbell 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 Hubbell 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 Hubbell 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 Hubbell 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 Hubbell employees who hold highly-appreciated stock.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

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 Hubbell's 401(k) Savings Plan?

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

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

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

What types of contributions can I make to Hubbell's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and may also have the option for catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.

Does Hubbell offer a company match for the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Hubbell offers a company match for the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for Hubbell's 401(k) company match?

The vesting schedule for Hubbell's 401(k) company match typically follows a graded vesting schedule over a period of years, which is outlined in the plan documents.

Can I take a loan from my Hubbell 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees may be eligible to take a loan from their Hubbell 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to the plan’s specific terms and conditions.

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

Hubbell's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and potentially other investment vehicles, depending on the plan's offerings.

How often can I change my contribution amount to Hubbell's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can typically change their contribution amount to Hubbell's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's specific rules.

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

If you leave Hubbell, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if allowed.

How can I check my Hubbell 401(k) Savings Plan balance?

You can check your Hubbell 401(k) Savings Plan balance by logging into the plan’s online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

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 Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees generally need to complete a minimum of 5 years of service and reach age 65 to qualify for full benefits. Early retirement options may be available, typically with reduced benefits starting from age 55. Pension Formula: The formula used is generally based on the employee’s average salary and years of service. For example, it might be calculated as 1.5% of the average salary multiplied by years of service. Hubbell 401(k) Savings Plan Eligibility: Employees are generally eligible to participate after completing 30 days of service. The company may offer a match up to a certain percentage of employee contributions.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Hubbell Inc. announced a restructuring plan in early 2024 as part of its strategic focus on operational efficiency and market responsiveness. The company is expected to lay off approximately 500 employees, primarily affecting its manufacturing and administrative divisions. This restructuring is aimed at streamlining operations and aligning resources with evolving market demands. The decision reflects broader trends in the industry where companies are optimizing their workforce to adapt to changing economic conditions and market dynamics. Importance: It is crucial to address this news due to its implications on the current economic landscape, particularly in light of investment shifts and tax policy changes. The restructuring could impact employee morale, community economic stability, and overall market confidence, making it essential to stay informed about such developments.

Hubbell Inc. offers stock options and RSUs to various levels of employees, including executives and senior management. The availability of stock options and RSUs is outlined in the company’s annual proxy statements and SEC filings. Typically, RSUs are granted to employees as part of their compensation package, with vesting schedules varying by role and performance.

Plans Offered: Hubbell offers a range of health insurance plans including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Healthcare Terms & Acronyms: Common terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), and FSA (Flexible Spending Account). Recent Updates: In 2023, Hubbell updated its benefits package to include enhanced mental health support and telemedicine services.