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Freddie Mac and the New Tariff Extension: What It Means for Employees and Retirees

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Healthcare Provider Update: Freddie Mac offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible healthcare plans such as POS, HMO, and high-deductible options with HSAs. Employees also receive dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with access to an on-site wellness center and fitness facilities. Additional perks include student loan repayment assistance, adoption and fertility benefits, legal services, commuter subsidies, and generous paid time off. The company contributes to 401(k) plans with matching and automatic contributions, and supports employee well-being through EAPs and backup care services 1. Freddie Mac Healthcare costs in the United States are projected to continue rising through 2026, with insurers proposing significant premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. A recent analysis found that ACA insurers are seeking a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, marking the largest hike since 2018. This surge is attributed to factors such as the anticipated expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, rising medical costsincluding expensive medications and increased hospital staysand a shift in the risk pool towards higher-cost enrollees. Without the renewal of enhanced subsidies, out-of-pocket premiums for ACA marketplace enrollees could increase by more than 75% on average. Click here to learn more

'Given the ongoing uncertainty in global trade and the potential impact of shifting tariffs on both corporate operations and retirement planning, it is essential for Freddie Mac employees to regularly assess their financial strategies and remain attentive to economic developments.' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Freddie Mac employees should monitor trade negotiations closely, as changes in tariff policy can influence market conditions, company benefits, and long-term retirement planning decisions.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

  1. The impact of the extended U.S. tariff halt and new deadlines on global markets and trade negotiations.

  2. How ongoing and upcoming international trade agreements could influence corporate operations, supply chains, and employee benefits.

  3. The financial risks and planning considerations for employees as tariff decisions shape economic stability, inflation, and retirement outlooks.

The extension of the U.S. tariff halt through August 1, 2025—delayed from its previous July 9 expiration—marks a significant moment for global economic relations, directly influencing markets and trade negotiations that could affect Freddie Mac employees.

The initial 90-day suspension was recently pushed out by three weeks by the Trump administration, now setting the new tariff deadline at August 1, 2025. This move aims to provide a more consistent environment for international business, including large companies like Freddie Mac, while negotiators work toward new trade agreements.

On July 7, 2025, administration officials notified 14 countries of proposed tariff rates, with most resembling those first announced in April. While final numbers are still subject to discussion, further talks are anticipated, signaling a period of ongoing uncertainty for companies engaged in global trade, such as Freddie Mac.

If negotiations fail or extensions lapse, steep tariffs—potentially exceeding 70% for certain goods and regions—will take effect August 1, with a baseline 10% tariff already in place during this interim. These pressures are closely watched by industry leaders, including Freddie Mac, since trade costs can influence both supply chains and international operations.

Tariff announcements have historically resulted in significant fluctuations in stock markets, with the April 2025 news prompting a sharp market response, followed by stabilization as deadlines shifted. Recent muted reactions suggest that investors expect future tariffs to be manageable. 

Upcoming trade deals between the United States and major partners like China and the European Union have the potential to alter market dynamics before the August deadline. A successful agreement could lessen trade-related uncertainty for multinational firms—including Freddie Mac—but complex international negotiations mean full resolutions may not occur soon.

Negotiations are progressing differently with each trading partner. The United Kingdom recently set tariffs at 10% in a completed agreement, while China obtained an extension on most tariff pauses after a June deal on rare-earth elements—resources critical to energy and technology sectors. In contrast, discussions with Japan, South Korea, and India remain tense, with higher tariffs threatened on key imports.

Talks with Canada and the EU are proving challenging as well. While Germany advocates for consistency in the EU’s delicate talks, Canada’s negotiations broke down in June and are currently on hold. These developments hold implications for Freddie Mac’s North American and European operations.

A new deal with Vietnam, imposing a 20% duty on Vietnamese imports and a 40% charge on trans-shipped goods, illustrates a tailored tariff approach. In return, Vietnam removed certain taxes on U.S. imports—a reminder that reciprocal agreements can provide benefits to both sides.

The U.S. administration is also weighing an extra 10% tariff on countries aligned with the BRICS coalition (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), including Egypt and the UAE, adding to the complex trade landscape affecting global companies.

Some negotiations, notably with Japan and India, have reached an impasse. India’s threat of retaliatory tariffs after August 1 and President Trump’s skepticism about a Japanese deal highlight the persistent challenges in reaching broad agreements—factors that Freddie Mac executives are monitoring closely.

These deadlines directly influence economic stability and market volatility. The initial April 2025 tariff news caused the CBOE Volatility Index to rise and temporarily unsettled bond markets, while ongoing uncertainty continues to impact investment outlooks for Freddie Mac employees and retirees alike.

The risks of high tariffs include disrupted supply chains, rising inflation, delayed or reduced business investments, and compressed corporate margins—all of which can eventually impact household budgets and Freddie Mac employee benefits.

Yet, successful trade deals could help steady supply chains and increase confidence, supporting economic growth for both the company and its employees.

Given the ongoing uncertainty, maintaining a diversified investment portfolio remains prudent. For Freddie Mac employees, this might mean balancing fixed income and equity assets to adapt to shifts in global markets.

Ultimately, the new tariff deadline highlights the need for careful financial review. Staying updated on trade developments and understanding their potential impact is important for anyone managing retirement investments or planning for the future.

A Yale Budget Lab study estimates that the 2025 tariff increases may lead to an average 2.3% rise in consumer prices, costing U.S. households around $3,800 in 2024 dollars. 1  Meanwhile, real U.S. GDP could fall by almost 0.9 percentage points in 2025, remaining 0.6% lower for the foreseeable future—equivalent to $160 billion less in annual output, 1  outcomes that could influence Freddie Mac’s business environment.

Stay informed on how ongoing trade negotiations, tariff deadlines, and global market shifts may shape retirement planning, supply chains, company earnings, and inflation. For Freddie Mac employees, remaining aware of these evolving factors is vital to navigating financial decisions in today’s economy.

Analogy:

Planning a dream cruise while navigating today’s shifting tariff environment is like watching a storm approach from the horizon. The skies may seem calm for now, but global trade winds can quickly change course as deadlines loom. Much like a traveler packing for all weather, Freddie Mac employees and retirees are weighing their options and preparing for changing economic conditions. Whether the outcome brings calmer seas or new turbulence, staying alert and prepared is essential for the journey ahead.

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Sources:

1. The Budget Lab at Yale. ' Where We Stand: The Fiscal, Economic, and Distributional Effects of All U.S. Tariffs Enacted in 2025 through April ,' by Che, Yan, et al., April 2, 2025. Accessed 13 July 2025.

2. Financial Times. ' A Case of Schrödinger’s Tariffs ,' by Hodgson, Camilla, 9 July 2025. Accessed 13 July 2025.

3. Barron's. ' What the Latest Tariffs Mean for the Economy ,' by McCarthy, Matt, 9 July 2025. Accessed 13 July 2025.

4. Business Insider. ' Trump's Moving Tariff Targets Could Add Another Layer of Uncertainty to the Fed’s Rate Decisions ,' by Giedraitis, Vincent, 10 July 2025. Accessed 13 July 2025.

5. Fidelity Investments. ' US Tariffs: What Comes Next? Fidelity Learning Center , 9 July 2025. Accessed 13 July 2025.

What type of retirement savings plan does Freddie Mac offer to its employees?

Freddie Mac offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Does Freddie Mac match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Freddie Mac provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, up to a certain percentage.

What is the eligibility requirement for Freddie Mac's 401(k) plan?

Employees at Freddie Mac are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

Can Freddie Mac employees make pre-tax contributions to their 401(k) plan?

Yes, Freddie Mac employees can make pre-tax contributions to their 401(k) plan, which can reduce their taxable income.

Does Freddie Mac allow after-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Freddie Mac allows employees to make after-tax contributions to their 401(k) plan.

How often can Freddie Mac employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?

Freddie Mac employees can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan during designated enrollment periods or as specified by the plan rules.

What investment options are available in Freddie Mac's 401(k) plan?

Freddie Mac's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and other investment vehicles.

Is there a vesting schedule for Freddie Mac's matching contributions?

Yes, Freddie Mac has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which determines when employees fully own those contributions.

How can Freddie Mac employees access their 401(k) account information?

Freddie Mac employees can access their 401(k) account information through the company's designated retirement plan website or portal.

What happens to a Freddie Mac employee's 401(k) account if they leave the company?

If a Freddie Mac employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, withdraw the funds, or leave the account with Freddie Mac, subject to plan rules.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Freddie Mac is a government-sponsored enterprise that provides liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S. housing market. It supports the housing finance system through its various programs.
Freddie Mac provides RSUs to certain employees. The RSUs vest over a specific period, supporting employee retention.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Freddie Mac at , ; or by calling them at .

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