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Navigating Market Challenges: Essential Insights for EnLink Midstream Employees Amidst Tech Sector Volatility

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for EnLink Midstream: EnLink Midstream primarily collaborates with health insurance providers to manage employee health benefits; however, specific healthcare providers associated with EnLink Midstream aren't publicly detailed in available resources. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for EnLink Midstream in 2026: As we look towards 2026, EnLink Midstream could face significant increases in healthcare costs driven by a perfect storm of economic factors. Affordability concerns are amplified by anticipated record hikes in ACA premiums, with some states seeing increases over 60%. The potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies may push out-of-pocket expenses for employees, causing premiums to rise by over 75% for many. This combination of escalating medical costs and regulatory changes could strain both company resources and employee health benefits, necessitating strategic adjustments in how EnLink approaches healthcare coverage. Click here to learn more

During the intensely volatile first 100 trading days of 2022, the stocks of companies in the S&P 500 index delivered their worst performance since 1970. 1  The S&P 500 continued to tumble, and the benchmark index descended into a bear market — typically defined as a sustained drop in stock prices of at least 20% — on June 13, 2022. When the market closed, the S&P 500 had dropped 21.8% from its January 3 peak, and the tech-heavy NASDAQ, already in bear territory, had plunged 32.7% from its November 19, 2021 peak. 2


Some investors who are nervous about the future and their portfolios seem to have taken a defensive stance by selling riskier assets, including investments in growth-oriented technology stocks.


What's triggering market volatility?
Throughout 2021 businesses across the U.S., like EnLink Midstream, dealt with unpredictable demand shifts and supply shocks related to the pandemic, but near-zero interest rates and trillions of dollars in pandemic relief supported consumer spending, boosted economic growth, and drove record corporate profits. Companies in the S&P 500 posted profits in 2021 that were 70% higher than in 2020 and 33% higher than in 2019, which helped fuel a stock market total return of nearly 29%. 3-4

But in the first months of 2022, investors began to worry that the anticipated tightening of monetary policies by the Federal Reserve — intended to cool off stubbornly high inflation — would stifle economic growth and cause a recession. Prices began rising in the spring of 2021 due to high demand, supply-chain issues, and a labor shortage that pushed up wages. Inflation picked up speed in the first quarter of 2022 when China's COVID-19 lockdowns impacted the supply of goods, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine sent already high global food and fuel prices through the roof. In May 2022, the Consumer Price Index rose at an annual rate of 8.6%, a 40-year high. 5

The relentless acceleration of price increases puts pressure on the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which meets on June 14 and 15, to act aggressively to tame inflation. At the beginning of May, the FOMC raised the benchmark federal funds rate by 0.5% (to a range of 0.75%–1.00%). This was the first half-percent increase since May 2000, and Fed projections suggest there will be more to come. 6

Rising interest rates push bond yields upward, and the opportunity for higher returns from lower-risk bond investments makes higher-risk stock investments less attractive. Moreover, stock investors are buying a portion of a company's future cash flows, which become less valuable in an inflationary environment. Higher borrowing costs can also crimp consumers' spending power and cut into the profits of companies that rely on debt.


The downside of domination
Stocks tracked by the S&P Information Technology Sector Index, which fell 29.2% from a January 3 high, have been hit harder than the S&P 500 as a whole. Plus, like many benchmark indexes, the S&P 500 is weighted by market capitalization (the value of a company's outstanding shares). This gives the largest companies, most of which are in the tech sector, an outsized role in index performance. As of May 31, the information technology sector still accounted for 27.1% of the market cap of the S&P 500, compared with weightings of 14.4% for health care and 11.2% for financials, the next-largest sectors. Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon, respectively, are the four most-valuable companies in the index; Nvidia is ranked ninth and Meta has fallen to number 11. 7

For the past several years, tech stock gains drove the market to new heights, but when their share values began to plunge, they dragged the broader stock indexes down with them. A Wall Street Journal analysis of market data through May 17 found that just eight of the largest U.S. companies — the six previously mentioned, plus Netflix and Tesla (in the consumer discretionary sector) — were responsible for an astounding 46% of the S&P 500's 2022 losses (on a total return basis). 8

These well-known technology companies have grown into massive multinational businesses that have a major influence on everyday life. Some dominate their respective business spaces — social media, smartphones, online search and advertising, e-commerce, and cloud computing — enough to spark antitrust investigations and calls for stricter regulations in the United States and abroad. They also have plenty of cash on hand, which means they may be in better shape to withstand an economic slowdown than their smaller competitors. 9

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Takeaways for investors
Spreading investments among the 11 sectors of the S&P 500 is a common way to diversify stock holdings. But over time, a stock portfolio that was once diversified can become overconcentrated in a sector that has outperformed the broader market. Tech-sector stocks notched huge total returns of about 50% in 2019, 44% in 2020, and 35% in 2021, so EnLink Midstream employees and retirees may want to look closely at the composition of their portfolio and consider rebalancing if they find themselves overexposed to this highly volatile sector. (Rebalancing involves selling some investments in order to buy others. Keep in mind that selling investments in a taxable account could result in a tax liability.)  10

If you feel shell-shocked after more than five months of market turbulence, we suggest our clients from EnLink Midstream try to regain some perspective. Some market analysts view recent price declines as a painful but long overdue repricing of stocks with valuations that had grown excessive, as well as a reality check brought on by waning growth expectations. The forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of companies in the S&P 500 has fallen from 23.3 at the end of 2021 to 17.8 in May 2022, much closer to the 10-year average of 16.9. 11-12

It could be a while before investors can better assess how the economy and corporate profits will ultimately fare against fast-rising inflation and higher borrowing costs — and the stock market is no fan of uncertainty. Disappointing economic data and company earnings reports could continue to spark volatility in the coming months. 

It may not be easy to take troubling headlines in stride, but if you have a sufficiently diversified, all-weather investment strategy, sticking to it is often the wisest course of action. If you panic and flee the market during a downturn, you won't be in a position to benefit from upward swings on its better days. And if you continue investing regularly for a long-term goal such as retirement, a down market may be an opportunity to buy more shares at lower prices.

The return and principal value of stocks fluctuate with changes in market conditions. Shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Investments seeking a higher return tend to involve greater risk. Diversification is a method we suggest to our clients from EnLink Midstream; it's used to help manage risk, but it's also important that EnLink Midstream employees note that it doesn't guarantee a profit or protect against investment loss. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged group of securities that is considered representative of the U.S. stock market in general. The performance of an unmanaged index is not indicative of the performance of any specific investment. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Actual results will vary. Dollar-cost averaging does not ensure a profit or prevent a loss. Such plans involve continuous investments in securities regardless of fluctuating prices. EnLink Midstream employees and retirees should consider their financial ability to continue making purchases during periods of low and high price levels. However, this can be an effective way for investors to accumulate shares to help meet long-term goals.

1) SIFMA, 2022
2) Yahoo! Finance, 2022
3) The New York Times, May 31, 2022
4, 7, 10-11) S&P Dow Jones Indices, 2022
5) U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
6) Federal Reserve, 2022
8) The Wall Street Journal, May 19, 2022
9) The New York Times, May 20, 2022
12) FactSet, 2022

 

What is the primary purpose of the 401(k) plan at EnLink Midstream?

The primary purpose of the 401(k) plan at EnLink Midstream is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

How can employees enroll in the 401(k) plan at EnLink Midstream?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at EnLink Midstream by accessing the enrollment portal through the company's HR website or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does EnLink Midstream offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?

Yes, EnLink Midstream offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

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

EnLink Midstream's 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 employees start contributing to the 401(k) plan at EnLink Midstream?

Employees at EnLink Midstream can start contributing to the 401(k) plan after they have completed their eligibility requirements, typically within their first few months of employment.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at EnLink Midstream?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at EnLink Midstream follows the IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the current limits for the specific year.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at EnLink Midstream?

Yes, EnLink Midstream allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What happens to an employee's 401(k) balance if they leave EnLink Midstream?

If an employee leaves EnLink Midstream, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash it out (which may incur penalties), or leave it in the EnLink Midstream plan if allowed.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in EnLink Midstream's 401(k) plan?

Yes, EnLink Midstream has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts in EnLink Midstream's 401(k) plan?

Employees at EnLink Midstream can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Eastman Chemical offers a comprehensive 401(k) plan that includes both traditional and Roth options. Employees at Eastman Chemical are automatically enrolled with a 7% deferral rate, with an annual "Auto Increase" feature that raises this rate by 1% each year until it reaches 10%. The company matches 50% of employee contributions up to 7%. Additionally, Eastman Chemical contributes a Retirement Savings Contribution (RSC), equivalent to 5% of the employee's RSC-eligible earnings, which is separate from employee contributions. Employees can further enhance their retirement savings through after-tax contributions, and they can utilize Roth in-plan conversions to potentially grow tax-free retirement income​ (MyEastmanBenefits)​ (MyEastmanBenefits). Eastman Chemical's pension plan is a defined benefit plan, where employees accrue benefits based on a combination of years of service and age qualification. However, specific details about the pension formula, years of service, and age qualification were not available in the sources consulted, and further document review would be necessary to obtain this data.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, EnLink Midstream announced a strategic restructuring aimed at optimizing operations and reducing costs. This included a reduction in workforce to streamline management and enhance operational efficiency. The company cited market conditions and operational challenges as reasons for these changes. The layoffs were part of a broader initiative to align resources with strategic priorities. Importance: Addressing this news is crucial given the current economic environment, where companies are under pressure to adapt to market fluctuations and regulatory changes. The impact of such restructuring on employees and stakeholders, especially in a volatile economic climate, underscores the importance of staying informed about these developments.
EnLink Midstream offers its employees various stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its executive compensation packages. The RSUs are awarded under the company's incentive plan, and eligibility extends to executives and key personnel who contribute to the company's growth​ (EnLink Midstream)​ (FinViz). EnLink Midstream employees receive these RSUs with vesting schedules typically tied to performance metrics and tenure within the company. Stock options are also available but are generally reserved for senior executives​ (EnLink Midstream)​ (EnLink Midstream). EnLink Midstream's stock options and RSUs play a crucial role in aligning employee incentives with shareholder value. The company expanded its RSU awards in 2022, 2023, and 2024 to support long-term employee retention and performance​ (EnLink Midstream)​ (Stock Analysis). Senior management and key employees are the primary recipients of these stock options, with vesting conditions tied to financial milestones such as EBITDA growth​
Benefits Overview: EnLink Midstream provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. Employees can also access health savings accounts (HSAs), flexible spending accounts (FSAs), and various wellness programs. Healthcare Terms: HSA: Health Savings Account FSA: Flexible Spending Account EAP: Employee Assistance Program
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for EnLink Midstream at 1722 Routh St, Suite 1300 Dallas, TX 75201; or by calling them at (214) 953-9500.

https://www.thelayoff.com/

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