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

Understanding the Rise in Interest Rates: What It Means for DaVita Employees and Their Retirement Plans

Interest rates are a key driver of most financial assets. While most often referenced in relation to the bond market, rates are also a key input in traditional equity valuation models, which incorporate market interest rates to determine the appropriate rate to discount future cash flows. Interest rates are an essential element in bond pricing and the yield that investors require to own a particular fixed-income security. Since hitting an all-time low in 2020, interest rates increased in 2021 and have continued that climb higher thus far in 2022. This has put pressure on fixed incomes and certain areas of the equity market, which has led to stress in certain areas of the stock market, such as growth stocks, which can be sensitive to interest rate shocks. With that in mind, let’s examine why rates have been moving up, and whether this should be a cause for concern for DaVita employees.

MORE AGGRESSIVE FEDERAL RESERVE
The Federal Reserve (Fed) has already raised interest rates by 75 basis points this year. A 25 basis point hike in March followed by a 50 basis point hike in May. The Fed is currently expected to hike rates by 50 basis points in both the June and July meetings and will continue to hike through the better part of 2022. With inflation running hot and the job market showing strength, the fact that the Fed is finally moving away from zero shows confidence in the health of the job market. But the speed with which interest rates are expected to go up underscores its concern about the soaring cost of living. Americans living in areas like California or New York will experience this policy shift through higher borrowing costs: No longer will it be insanely cheap to take out mortgages or car loans and this along with higher inflation may lead to less investment in the market and more spending on needs, which is a main reason for market volatility, and important for DaVita employees and retirees to keep in mind.

INFLATION CONCERNS
Inflation is also a primary determinant of long-term interest rates. Rising inflation has the potential to eat away at fixed-income returns, so naturally, inflation expectations are a component of the yield that investors require to own fixed income. Put simply, inflation is a result of too much money chasing too few goods, and there are concerns that the increase in the level of money in circulation may lead to this. The extraordinary level of fiscal and monetary stimulus put in place to combat the economic damage of Coronavirus caused a significant increase in the M2 money supply. As a result, we are currently seeing this increase in the level of money in circulation translate to a pickup in consumer spending, but also elevated inflation.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

RISKS OF A RECESSION
Now that the pandemic has started to recede, the Fed has once again started to raise short-
term interest rates. This policy change has caused market volatility to spike for the three
major reasons to the right.

Today as the Fed begins to aggressively hike interest rates, market participants worry we may endure a period of high inflation alongside weakening economic growth — otherwise known as stagflation.

This environment is another example of why we believe in and suggest to our clients from DaVita that staying diversified is the best way to insulate portfolios from being too exposed to one risk factor.

Economic Definitions
M2 Money Supply: The M2 Money Supply, also referred to as “M2” or “Money Stock,” measures the amount of currency in circulation. M2 includes M1 (physical cash and checkable deposits) as well as less liquid money, such as saving bank accounts.

What steps should DaVita employees take to prepare for retirement within the context of the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan? How does the structure of this plan align with common retirement strategies, and what resources does DaVita provide to help employees understand their options when they are considering retirement?

DaVita employees preparing for retirement within the context of the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan should review their savings, evaluate their retirement goals, and ensure they are maximizing contributions. The plan aligns with common retirement strategies by offering diversified investment options and matching contributions, making it easier for employees to grow their retirement funds. DaVita provides resources, such as the Voya website and a dedicated retirement service center, to help employees understand their retirement options and plan effectively.

How does the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan accommodate employees who have previously held jobs with different retirement plans? What documentation is necessary for these employees to successfully roll over their funds to the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan, and how does DaVita ensure compliance with IRS regulations in these situations?

The DaVita Retirement Savings Plan accommodates employees who have held jobs with other retirement plans by allowing rollovers from qualified plans, including 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and IRAs. Employees need to obtain proof of plan qualification and taxability from their previous employer or financial institution. DaVita ensures compliance with IRS regulations by requiring proper documentation, including an IRS Letter of Determination or rollover distribution statement, as noted in the Rollover Contribution Form(DaVita_08_11_2016_Rollo…).

In what ways can DaVita employees maximize their contributions to the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan, particularly considering the IRS contribution limits for 2024? What strategies should employees consider when determining how much to contribute, and how can DaVita support employees in achieving their retirement savings goals?

DaVita employees can maximize their contributions to the Retirement Savings Plan by taking advantage of the IRS contribution limits for 2024. The limit for employee deferrals is expected to be around $23,000, with an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500 for those aged 50 and above. Strategies include contributing enough to receive the full employer match and adjusting contributions to meet future goals. DaVita provides support through educational resources and financial tools available on the Voya platform.

How does DaVita address the investment options available through its Retirement Savings Plan? Specifically, what guidance is provided to employees regarding the selection of investment funds, and how can employees access information about their investment choices within the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan?

DaVita offers a range of investment options in its Retirement Savings Plan, including target date funds, stock funds, and bond funds. The company provides guidance to employees through the Voya website and customer service center, where they can access detailed information about available investment funds. Employees can tailor their portfolios based on their retirement timeline and risk tolerance, and they are encouraged to review their investment choices regularly.

What are the tax implications of withdrawing funds from the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan, and how can employees prepare for this? How does DaVita provide clarity around the tax obligations faced by employees when they begin to access their retirement savings, particularly for those who are unfamiliar with tax rules relating to retirement distributions?

Withdrawing funds from the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan can have significant tax implications. Withdrawals before age 59½ may incur early withdrawal penalties, and all withdrawals are subject to income tax unless they are from a Roth account. DaVita educates employees on these tax rules through its Voya platform, providing clarity on how to manage taxes when accessing retirement savings. Employees are encouraged to consult tax professionals for specific guidance.

How does DaVita educate its employees about the importance of understanding their retirement plan features? What programs or resources are available for employees to learn about financial wellness and retirement readiness, and how frequently does DaVita conduct educational initiatives related to its Retirement Savings Plan?

DaVita educates its employees on retirement plan features through webinars, financial wellness programs, and resources available on the Voya website. These initiatives focus on retirement readiness, savings strategies, and understanding the investment options within the plan. DaVita regularly updates employees through newsletters, and webinars are conducted periodically to keep employees informed about the plan.

In the event of unexpected financial hardships, what options do DaVita employees have regarding loans or early withdrawals from the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan? What do employees need to know about the process and potential penalties associated with accessing their funds early?

In the case of financial hardships, DaVita employees can take loans or early withdrawals from their Retirement Savings Plan. However, early withdrawals may be subject to penalties and taxes, depending on the circumstances. DaVita's Voya service center provides guidance on the process, explaining the potential costs and consequences. Employees are encouraged to explore alternative solutions before opting for early withdrawals to avoid unnecessary penalties.

What role do employees' personal financial goals play when determining their participation in the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan? How can DaVita assist employees in aligning their savings plan with their individual financial objectives, and what external financial consulting resources might they recommend?

Employees' personal financial goals play a key role in determining their participation in the DaVita Retirement Savings Plan. DaVita helps employees align their retirement savings with their broader financial objectives by offering planning tools and resources on the Voya platform. Additionally, external financial advisors or consulting services may be recommended for those needing personalized financial advice.

How can DaVita employees contact the company for more information regarding the Retirement Savings Plan? What specific channels, such as phone numbers or online resources, are available, and what types of inquiries can employees expect to address when contacting DaVita about their retirement savings?

DaVita employees seeking more information about the Retirement Savings Plan can contact the plan’s service center through the Voya website or by calling the dedicated support line. Customer service representatives are available to assist with inquiries related to contributions, investment options, rollovers, and withdrawals. Online resources and account management tools are also accessible for employees who prefer digital support.

How does DaVita ensure that it stays current with regulatory changes that impact employee retirement savings, particularly with respect to IRS limits set for 2024? What processes does DaVita have in place to update employees about these changes, and how does the company maintain transparency regarding its compliance with retirement regulations?

DaVita ensures it stays up to date with regulatory changes, including IRS contribution limits and distribution rules, through regular collaboration with financial service providers and legal experts. The company updates employees via email, webinars, and its Voya platform when changes occur, maintaining transparency about compliance with retirement regulations and keeping employees informed of any adjustments to the plan.

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

DaVita offers its employees a comprehensive retirement savings plan, including a 401(k) with company match. Employees are auto-enrolled in the 401(k) plan, which features a company match that vests over four years. The plan encourages long-term savings by offering diverse investment options and tools for retirement planning. Additionally, DaVita provides a pension plan to eligible employees, though details on the specific pension formula and eligibility criteria are not as prominently highlighted. For further details, you can refer to their benefits overview pages on their official website

DaVita has faced legal challenges regarding its 401(k) plan. A class action lawsuit alleges that the company allowed excessive recordkeeping costs and offered high-fee investment options. Additionally, DaVita agreed to a settlement related to mismanagement claims.

DaVita Inc. offers stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its equity compensation program for eligible employees. The company's stock options are generally awarded to senior management and key employees, allowing them to purchase company stock at a set price after a specific vesting period. These stock options typically have a vesting schedule of three to five years and must be exercised within ten years of the grant date. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) at DaVita are also primarily awarded to senior employees. RSUs provide the right to receive shares of DaVita stock upon vesting, usually after three to four years, depending on the terms of the grant. Unlike stock options, RSUs do not require the employee to purchase the shares; the shares are delivered outright upon vesting. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, DaVita continued to issue stock options and RSUs as part of its long-term incentive plans. These equity awards are designed to align employee interests with those of shareholders and incentivize performance that contributes to the company's success. Stock options and RSUs are granted based on an employee’s role, seniority, and contribution to the company, with top executives receiving the majority of these awards.

DaVita has implemented a comprehensive approach to health benefits for its employees, with a focus on both physical and mental well-being. Between 2022 and 2024, DaVita has been recognized for its strong commitment to employee health, receiving multiple national awards in areas such as mental health and overall well-being. Medical and Prescription Plans: DaVita offers multiple medical insurance options through national carriers like Anthem and Kaiser Permanente, depending on location. The company also provides an extensive prescription plan that includes coverage for over 300 generic medications at no cost. Dental and Vision Plans: Dental coverage includes services ranging from regular cleanings to orthodontics and dentures, while vision coverage extends to eye exams, lenses, and even discounted laser surgery. Mental Health and Wellness: DaVita places a significant emphasis on mental health, offering programs like the Vitality Points incentive program to promote regular health check-ins. The company also collaborates with Included Health to support LGBTQ+ employees and offers free access to the Headspace app for guided meditation and mindfulness. Specialty Health Programs: DaVita has introduced virtual physical therapy options and a weight loss support program designed to help employees maintain a healthy lifestyle. There is also a focus on supporting diverse employee needs through surrogacy, adoption, and fertility services, as well as backup care for children and the elderly. Recent Developments and Employee Support: DaVita has actively enhanced its wellness initiatives by introducing programs such as Project Reignite, which provides resources like counseling sessions and self-care tips. Additionally, the company continues to focus on holistic care, ensuring that employees, referred to as "teammates," receive support that covers both their professional development and personal health needs. DaVita's dedication to these areas has not only earned it industry recognition but has also fostered a culture where employee well-being is a priority.

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for DaVita employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for DaVita at 2000 16th St Denver, CO 80202; or by calling them at (303) 405-2100.

https://filecache.investorroom.com/mr5ir_davita/338/DVA-12.31.2022%20DEF14A-Definative.pdf https://www.financestrategists.com/retirement-planning/deferred-compensation-plans/ https://recosa.org/update-regarding-457b-deferred-compensation-plan-changes/8270/07/27/2023/14/35/ https://www.stordahlcap.com/insights/understanding-net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-and-its-tax-benefits https://creativeplanning.com/insights/financial-planning/how-to-use-the-net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-strategy-in-your-401k/ https://www.taxfavoredbenefits.com/resource-center/retirement/net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-explained https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-tax-smart-company-stock-rollover/ https://careers.davita.com/benefits https://www.thelayoff.com/t/UtGaSTi https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/927066/000092706624000118/a401k202311-k.htm https://www.hicapitalize.com/find-my-401k/davita/ https://www.principal.com/businesses/trends-insights/interest-rates-are-rise-and-may-impact-your-lump-sum-benefits https://advisor.morganstanley.com/the-aspiro-group/articles/retirement/tax-strategies-for-retirement https://news.medtronic.com/2022-05-26-Medtronic-and-DaVita-announce-new-kidney-health-technology-company https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/DAVITA-INC-12378/news/DaVita-Inc-entered-into-a-definitive-merger-agreement-to-acquire-HealthCare-Partners-LLC-from-Summ-39360049/ https://smartasset.com/retirement/retirement-calculator https://www.schwab.com/retirement-planning-tools/retirement-calculator https://www.dol.gov/ https://www.milliman.com/en/ https://www.futureplan.com/