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Would Laying Off Workers be Beneficial or Detrimental to Loews?

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Wesley Boudreaux, Financial Advisor at The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group: 'Loews employees should see layoffs not as the end of the road, but as a fresh start, a chance to reset their career and financial goals. It is especially important to concentrate on individual development and strength during such moments,' notes Wesley Boudreaux from The Retirement Group, stressing the importance of an active attitude towards change in the workplace.

Patrick Ray, Financial Advisor at The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group: 'Due to the recent layoffs, Loews employees need to focus on the future and develop a solid plan for their career and financial future. According to Patrick Ray of The Retirement Group, it is now more important than ever to build professional and financial diversity in order to improve job security and financial position,' noting that people must get ready for the uncertainties that are likely to come in the job market.

In this article, we will discuss :

1. The direct and indirect effects of layoffs on employees’ work output and organization culture, and how layoffs are usually detrimental to the remaining employees and the organization as a whole.

2. Options to layoffs recommended by professionals and other ways, such as job internal movement and executive salary reductions, based on the models that demonstrate the strategies that companies can employ during the economic downturn.

3. The psychological and emotional processes that employees who have been laid off from Loews companies should undergo, with a particular focus on the need for self-care and the importance of not relying on a single identity to cope with job loss.

Loews employees may wish to consider how research and workplace experts have concluded that mass layoffs are likely to be damaging for a company in the long term. Layoffs.fyi reported that in the first two months of the year, 366 tech companies had laid off 107,370 employees.

The overall picture: A study found that after layoffs, those who stayed in their positions tended to perform worse and were less satisfied with their jobs, especially in research-intensive industries. In addition, layoffs can enhance turnover; people – usually the best ones – do not want to work on a losing team. Recently, there has been a reported trend of people ‘rage-applying’ for other jobs.

  • The level of fear that comes with firing can also harm the climate. For example, in Bloomberg’s Sarah Green Carmichael, ‘Survivors may respond to a layoff by defending their territory or by speaking more frequently to prove their knowledge.’

Yes, but at times, layoffs are necessary, particularly if a company cannot cover its expenses or if it expects to grow at a slower rate.

In addition, Loews employees should review how Kevin Delaney, CEO of Charter, a media and research firm that advises businesses on talent strategy, recommends that highly profitable tech companies may not want to lay off workers in a tight labor market.

  • The technology sector remains a growth area. Can these companies ever need to employ people in the future? The answer is always yes.'

However, there are other ways to deal with layoffs, for instance, by assigning employees to other positions within the company, which Zapier is currently testing. Companies can also decide not to replace outgoing employees. Delaney also highlights that there is the possibility of managerial furloughs and cuts in salaries.

Things to Consider When Experiencing a Layoff

To the previous Loews employees, being laid off is clearly a nasty thing that happens in the workplace. It is possible to have difficulty in transitioning, which can increase levels of negativity and decrease levels of productivity. Some of the emotions that are likely to be experienced by people who have been laid off include fear, negative self-image, and feelings of worthlessness.

Although one is allowed to have such feelings, it is important not to let them control one’s life. Worrying too much about such kind of thoughts may hinder you from moving forward to a better future and may even make you do something you may regret. It is not recommended to complain about your previous employer on social network sites right after being fired. As a former employee of Loews, even though they may be in the wrong, there is much to be lost on your end. Giving the 24 hours to elapse will give you a chance to reduce the intensity of the feelings that you are experiencing.

The ability to allow oneself to be consumed with anger and to send nasty e-mails will make you a victim and this will affect your job-hunting efforts in the future. Moreover, one should understand that when being angry and feeling betrayed, one looks like the perpetrator, which is not helpful at all in an interview.

Some of the previous Loews employees may also want to choose their words carefully and only use them to people they can trust. “Don’t do to the people around you what you are doing, that is, crying, being angry and aggressive, and shouting at people. You are directing it at your friends and family who love you and had nothing to do with this event. This is not the way you should release your feelings.” Dr. Jantz advised.

Coping Strategies for Loews Employees

For those with overwhelming feelings, it is crucial that those who have worked for Loews practice good self-care and be strong. It may be useful when angry to try to improve your diet, your sleep, and your physical activity. Walking, exercising and working are all methods which can be used to help release anger. Also, other ways of coping with strong negative emotions are not to resort to self-destructive behavior, not to blame oneself for what has happened, and to write down feelings. One must also refocus and reevaluate what must be done to fortify and increase well-being. Those who used to work in Loews can be isolated, to stay at home and not to leave the house, and to become depressed.

Although it is helpful for the employees of Loews to consider work as part of their identity, it is dangerous to make it the only part of who you are. A study in the journal Frontiers of Psychology revealed that people who described themselves as workaholics felt dehumanized, as if they were machines or tools, and had higher levels of disengagement, depression, and burnout. Hence, it is possible that Loews employees may gain benefit from understanding the theory of self-complexity. Self-complexity is the complexity of the characteristics that define who you are in your everyday life.

The more complicated your self-identity, the more resourceful you are. That’s why it’s important to think about building your self-esteem and not in the way of your finances. You can build your self-identity and develop your self-complexity across the various aspects of your life. That way when things at work aren’t going well, you don’t lose your entire sense of self. You might decide to spend time on your hobbies, your spirituality or your health.

As for the people who have worked for Loews it is possible that resilience and the search for improvement will help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety that come with being laid off. It is important to ask oneself: “Am I angry and resentful? Has fear and worry taken over my life?” Give positive encouragement to convince yourself that there is nothing wrong with you and that you are going through a rough patch in life.

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Sources: 

1. 'The Long-Term Impact of Layoffs on Company Performance: A Deep Dive.'  Cyphertech Blog . 10 Oct. 2024.  www.cyphertech.co/long-term-impact-layoffs .

2. Daily Report Staff. 'The Negative Long-Term Impact of Layoffs on Companies.'  Baton Rouge Business Report . 10 Oct. 2024.  www.businessreport.com/negative-long-term-impact-layoffs .

3. 'Mass Layoffs: Cost Cutting or Costly Mistake?'  Alp Consulting . 15 Sept. 2024.  www.alp.consulting/mass-layoffs-cost-cutting .

4. 'Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Layoffs.'  Fast Company . 15 Oct. 2024.  www.fastcompany.com/long-term-effects-layoffs .

5. 'Exploring the Hidden Costs of Layoffs.'  Hatchproof . 1 Oct. 2024.  www.hatchproof.com/hidden-costs-layoffs .

What is the purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by Loews?

The 401(k) plan offered by Loews is designed to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

How can I enroll in Loews' 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Loews' 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance with the enrollment process.

Does Loews offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Loews offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps to enhance overall retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Loews' 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Loews' 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which can change annually. Employees should check the latest limits for accuracy.

Can I change my contribution percentage to Loews' 401(k) plan at any time?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to Loews' 401(k) plan at any time, typically through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.

What investment options are available in Loews' 401(k) plan?

Loews' 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

When can I start withdrawing from my Loews 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically start withdrawing from their Loews 401(k) plan at age 59½, but specific rules and penalties may apply depending on the circumstances.

Are there any fees associated with Loews' 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with Loews' 401(k) plan, which can include administrative fees and investment management fees. Employees should review the plan documents for details.

How does Loews communicate changes to the 401(k) plan?

Loews communicates changes to the 401(k) plan through official company emails, newsletters, and updates on the benefits portal to ensure all employees are informed.

Can I take a loan against my 401(k) with Loews?

Yes, Loews allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined 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.
Loews offers a defined contribution plan (401(k)) to its employees, allowing them to save for retirement. Employees can contribute a percentage of their salary, with limits set by the IRS, which have increased from $20,500 in 2022 to $22,500 in 2023 and $23,000 in 2024. Employees aged 50 and above can make catch-up contributions, which are $6,500 in 2022 and $7,500 in 2023 and 2024​ (Pension Rights Center)​ (CliftonLarsonAllen). These plans are structured to encourage long-term savings, with Loews often matching employee contributions up to a certain percentage, enhancing retirement security​ (CliftonLarsonAllen). The company also provides a defined benefit pension plan for certain long-term employees. This pension plan has age and years of service requirements, typically requiring employees to be at least 65 years old with a set number of years of service to receive full benefits. The pension formula is generally based on final average pay and years of service​ (CliftonLarsonAllen)​ (My Lowe's Life). For both the pension and 401(k) plans, Loews has specific terminology and acronyms, such as "final average pay" for pension calculations and "vesting periods" for the 401(k) plan. These details help employees understand how their benefits are calculated and when they become eligible​
Loews Corporation has been navigating significant corporate restructuring, leading to workforce reductions across several of its subsidiaries, particularly in the insurance and energy sectors. Alongside these layoffs, Loews has implemented changes in employee benefit structures, with a stronger emphasis on enhanced 401(k) plans replacing traditional pension offerings. Employees who were previously enrolled in defined benefit pensions have seen modifications, including the cessation of new contributions to these pensions, in favor of shifting toward defined contribution plans, such as 401(k)s.
For Loews, stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are a significant part of employee compensation, especially in fostering long-term engagement and retention. Loews typically offers time-based RSUs to a select group of employees, with vesting periods linked to tenure at the company. RSUs at Loews grant employees shares of company stock once they have met the vesting conditions, such as staying with the company for a specified number of years. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Loews continued to issue stock options and RSUs as a key component of their long-term incentive plans (LTI). These incentives are available to employees based on their role within the company, particularly to senior management and executives. RSUs are vested over a set period, and employees must meet specific performance or tenure criteria to receive their shares. Once the shares vest, employees have the option to either hold or sell them, though this is subject to Loews’ trading policies. The RSU grants at Loews are taxed as ordinary income upon vesting, and the company withholds federal income tax at the time of vesting to meet IRS requirements. Additionally, employees who qualify for Loews' RSUs may also benefit from capital gains tax treatment on any price appreciation of the stock after the vesting period.
Health Plan Design & Cost: Loews has incorporated High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) into their offerings, which are becoming increasingly popular among employees due to their lower premium costs but higher deductibles. This is aligned with a broader industry trend, as HDHP enrollment has risen in 2023 despite significant increases in premiums​ (Stephens). Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms: Loews employees frequently encounter terms such as HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan), PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), and HSA (Health Savings Account). The HSA is particularly relevant for employees enrolled in HDHPs, offering tax advantages for medical expenses​ (Loews). Recent Employee Healthcare News: In recent years, Loews has been proactive in responding to healthcare inflation. In 2023, Loews adjusted its plan designs to mitigate rising costs, with a focus on prescription drug tiers and other cost-containment strategies. This reflects a broader trend among employers to manage healthcare spending through strategic plan modifications, particularly for small and midsize businesses
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Loews at , ; or by calling them at .

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/retirement/net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-tax-treatment-amp-strategies/c71vBJZ2B https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/retirement/company-stock https://www.robinsonsmithwealth.com/blog/company-stock-in-a-401k-consider-net-unrealized-appreciation-nua https://www.claconnect.com/en/resources/articles/2023/new-federal-law-changes-retirement-rules-for-companies-and-employees https://pensionrights.org/resource/retirement-plan-contribution-and-benefit-limits/ https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1jUfOiEX https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/restricted-stock-unit.asp https://carta.com/learn/equity/rsu/ https://www.imercer.com/articleinsights/Long-Term-Incentives-the-Basics https://www.irs.gov/irm/part4/irm_04-023-005r https://www.boeing.com/employee-and-retiree https://www.loews.com/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loews_Hotels https://stockanalysis.com/ https://www.stephens.com/insurance/perspectives/2024-trends-report-employee-benefits-benchmarking https://loews.com/investors/financials/annual-reports/default.aspx https://www.preqin.com/data/profile/investor/loews-corporation-pension-plan/99515 https://www.myloweslife.com/lowesnet/portal/hr_portal/documents/benefits_brochure_us.pdf https://talent.lowes.com/us/en/compensation-benefits https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/cash-balance-pension-plan-options https://www.pentegra.com/current-thinking/retirement-industry-trends-and-marketplace-expertise/whats-the-deal-with-cash-balance-plans/ https://www.futureplan.com/resources/news-articles/defined-benefit-cash-balance-plan-key-priorities/

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