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These Countries Are Safer for Retirees Than the U.S. – What Ingredion Employees Need to Know

'Ingredion employees planning their retirement should consider the stability and peace of their chosen destination, as a tranquil environment not only enhances well-being but can also offer financial advantages, such as tax exemptions, making for a truly rewarding retirement experience.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Ingredion employees looking to retire abroad should prioritize destinations that combine peace, low cost of living, and favorable tax incentives, as these factors contribute to a more relaxed and financially efficient retirement.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

The most peaceful countries for retirees in 2025, including Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica.
Key factors, such as the Global Peace Index and Global Retirement Index, influencing retirement destinations.
The lifestyle and financial benefits of retiring in these peaceful countries, specifically for Ingredion employees.

Retirement should be a time of comfort, leisure, and, most importantly, well-being. After years of hard work at Ingredion, the freedom to relax in a calm and tranquil setting becomes essential. According to a recent International Living study, the most peaceful countries for retirees in 2025 were identified using data from the Global Peace Index and the Global Retirement Index. This list features countries like Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica, all renowned for their low crime rates and peaceful environments, offering retirees an opportunity to live with less stress.

The research was compiled by International Living's team using their annual Global Retirement Index, which rates countries based on factors like health care, cost of living, infrastructure, and overall quality of life for seniors. The inclusion of the Global Peace Index, which measures political stability and crime rates, lends further depth to this list. These countries are ideal for those looking for a calm and serene retirement abroad, as they score highly on both indexes, making them particularly relevant for Ingredion employees considering life after retirement.

Why These Nations Stand Out

The countries highlighted in International Living's 2025 list not only provide a peaceful and stable environment but also offer economic benefits such as affordable health care and low living costs. Portugal, for instance, consistently ranks highly for its tranquility and low crime rate. With its welcoming culture and excellent infrastructure, Portugal is an attractive option for those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing comfort. It ranks 7th on the Global Peace Index and 2nd on the Global Retirement Index, making it a top choice for retirees, including Ingredion employees.

One retiree interviewed by International Living, who has lived in Portugal for over seven years, shares that the country offers a 'sense of calm that wraps around you like a warm blanket—steady, comforting, and always present.' With its peaceful environment and high standard of living, Portugal may provide an ideal retreat for retirees, including Ingredion employees looking to unwind after years of hard work.

Malaysia, ranked 7th on the Global Retirement Index and 10th on the Global Peace Index, is another top destination. Known for its blend of modernity and tradition, Malaysia is a peaceful, cosmopolitan country that boasts low crime rates and a laid-back lifestyle. Cities like Penang and Langkawi are especially popular with expatriates. An expat interviewed by International Living, a 16-year resident of Malaysia, emphasizes that the country’s cultural respect and harmonious cohabitation are key to its tranquility—ideal for those from Ingredion looking for a calm place to retire.

Another favorite among retirees is Costa Rica, which ranks 3rd on the Global Retirement Index. Despite its lower ranking on the Global Peace Index (38th), Costa Rica is known for its natural beauty, stable democracy, and affordable health care. 'I'm grateful that my kids have grown up on the beach, surrounded by nature's playground,' says an International Living interviewee, who has lived in Costa Rica since 2013. Costa Rica offers retirees a lifestyle that is harmonious with nature, making it an appealing choice for those from Ingredion looking for a peaceful retirement.

Other Noteworthy Retirement Locations

In addition to Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica, several other countries offer peaceful and tranquil retirement options. Ireland, ranked 2nd on the Global Peace Index and 15th on the Global Retirement Index, is another excellent option. With its stable political climate, low crime rate, and high-quality health care, Ireland provides a peaceful and enjoyable lifestyle for retirees, including those from Ingredion, who are seeking relaxation in retirement.

Vietnam, ranked 16th on the Global Retirement Index and 41st on the Global Peace Index, is also gaining popularity among retirees. With its vibrant culture, affordable living, and stunning landscapes, Vietnam offers a cost-effective and tranquil retirement option for those, including Ingredion employees, looking to settle in Southeast Asia.

Uruguay, often overlooked, ranks 14th on the Global Retirement Index and 52nd on the Global Peace Index. Known for its low crime rates and political stability, Uruguay provides retirees with a peaceful lifestyle and a friendly, welcoming community. With easy access to both the beach and countryside, Uruguay offers a relaxed and affordable way of life—perfect for those from Ingredion seeking a laid-back retirement.

Retirement Planning and Global Peace Index

When considering potential retirement destinations, the Global Peace Index is an important factor. In 2024, the United States ranked 132nd on the Global Peace Index, which is much lower than many of the countries listed by International Living. For Ingredion employees seeking peace of mind, it's important to consider not only the cost of living but also the stability and tranquility of the country.

For those planning to retire abroad, the level of stability should be a key consideration. Retirees who settle in countries with high Global Peace Index scores are more likely to feel at ease, allowing them to enjoy their retirement without the concerns of living in an unstable region. Whether it’s the peaceful streets of Portugal, the cultural harmony of Malaysia, or the natural beauty of Costa Rica, these countries offer retirees, including those from Ingredion, the ideal setting for a worry-free life.

In Conclusion

Retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of years of hard work and planning, and choosing the right location is essential for a fulfilling future. According to International Living, the most peaceful retirement locations offer a blend of affordability, stability, and tranquility, making them perfect for those seeking a calm and enjoyable lifestyle. By considering both the Global Retirement Index and the Global Peace Index, Ingredion employees can make informed decisions about where to spend their golden years, helping them enjoy a high quality of life and stability.

Many of the countries on this list, including Portugal and Malaysia, also provide retirees with significant financial advantages. Portugal, for example, offers a tax structure for non-habitual residents that allows retirees to enjoy tax exemptions on certain types of income for up to ten years. Malaysia also offers tax breaks, including exemptions on foreign pension income. These tax benefits can help reduce the overall cost of retirement abroad, which may be particularly appealing for Ingredion employees looking to stretch their retirement savings.

For Ingredion employees planning their retirement, exploring these countries may provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a tranquil and affordable retirement. Consider retiring in a place that offers both financial incentives and a calm, tranquil environment where you can truly unwind.

Selecting the right retirement destination is like choosing a second home. The United States, while offering many benefits, can be like living in a bustling city where the constant activity may detract from the tranquility you desire. Countries like Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica offer a quieter, more peaceful environment—much like a relaxing retreat—where you can enjoy the calm and serenity of retirement, making them the perfect destination for Ingredion employees seeking a less stressful future.

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Sources:

1. International Living Editorial Team. 'The 2025 Annual Global Retirement Index.' International Living , Apr. 2025, https://internationalliving.com/the-best-places-to-retire/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

2. Institute for Economics & Peace. 'Global Peace Index 2024.' Vision of Humanity , June 2024, https://www.economicsandpeace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GPI-2024-web.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

3. Travel + Leisure Editorial Team. 'These Countries Were Just Named Safer for Retirees Than the U.S.' Travel + Leisure , May 2025, https://www.travelandleisure.com/countries-safer-for-retirement-than-usa-11739864?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

4. Kiplinger Editorial Team. 'Retire in Costa Rica for Expat Heaven.' Kiplinger , May 2025, https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/retire-in-costa-rica-for-expat-heaven?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

5. SeniorLiving.org Editorial Team. 'Best Places to Retire for Seniors in 2025.' SeniorLiving.org , Mar. 2025, https://www.seniorliving.org/retirement/best-places/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

What is the 401k plan offered by Ingredion?

The 401k plan offered by Ingredion is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their earnings on a tax-deferred basis.

How does Ingredion match employee contributions to the 401k plan?

Ingredion matches employee contributions to the 401k plan up to a certain percentage, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

Can employees of Ingredion choose how their 401k contributions are invested?

Yes, employees of Ingredion can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401k plan to align with their retirement goals.

What is the eligibility requirement for Ingredion's 401k plan?

To be eligible for Ingredion's 401k plan, employees typically need to meet specific criteria such as age and length of service.

When can employees of Ingredion enroll in the 401k plan?

Employees of Ingredion can enroll in the 401k plan during the initial enrollment period or during open enrollment periods as specified by the company.

How can Ingredion employees change their 401k contribution amount?

Ingredion employees can change their 401k contribution amount by submitting a request through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department.

Does Ingredion offer a loan option against the 401k savings plan?

Yes, Ingredion does offer a loan option against the 401k savings plan, allowing employees to borrow from their savings under certain conditions.

What happens to my 401k savings if I leave Ingredion?

If you leave Ingredion, you have several options for your 401k savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

Are there any fees associated with Ingredion's 401k plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with Ingredion's 401k plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

Can Ingredion employees access their 401k funds while still employed?

Generally, Ingredion employees cannot access their 401k funds while still employed, except through loans or hardship withdrawals as permitted by 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.

Pension Plan Details: Look for the specific name of Ingredion's pension plan. Check eligibility criteria such as years of service and age requirements. 401(k) Plan Details: Identify the name of Ingredion's 401(k) plan. Check who qualifies for the 401(k) plan.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Ingredion announced a significant restructuring plan to streamline operations and reduce costs. This includes a reduction of approximately 200 positions globally as part of their strategic realignment to focus on core businesses. The decision is driven by the need to adapt to changing market conditions and enhance operational efficiency. This move reflects broader industry trends of companies optimizing their workforce amidst economic uncertainties. Benefit and Pension Changes: Ingredion is also revising its employee benefits package, including adjustments to its pension plan and 401(k) offerings. The company is shifting from a defined benefit pension plan to a defined contribution plan, impacting employees’ retirement savings and planning. Additionally, changes to the 401(k) plan will involve adjustments in matching contributions and investment options. This is crucial for employees to understand as it directly affects their retirement readiness and financial planning. Given the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment, these changes necessitate careful attention and adjustment to individual retirement strategies.

Ingredion provides stock options to select employees as part of their compensation plan. The company uses the acronym "ISO" for Incentive Stock Options and "NSO" for Non-Qualified Stock Options. Stock options are typically granted to executives and senior management. RSUs Ingredion grants RSUs to executives and other high-level employees. The acronym "RSU" stands for Restricted Stock Units. RSUs are part of Ingredion’s long-term incentive plan and vest over a period of time, often contingent on performance or continued employment.

2022 Report: The annual report mentions a focus on maintaining competitive benefits to attract and retain top talent, with specific attention to healthcare and wellness programs. 2023 Report: Details include enhanced telehealth services and expanded mental health support as part of their benefits package. 2024 Report: Highlights ongoing improvements in health benefits, particularly in response to employee feedback and market trends.

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