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Navigating Volatile Markets: Two Strategies Genuine Parts Employees Can Use to Balance Growth and Protection

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Genuine Parts: Genuine Parts Company, primarily known for its automotive replacement parts, benefits from its association with several healthcare providers, but its specific health insurance options are not publicly detailed. Generally, employees are likely covered under major national providers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, or Aetna, which offer group health plans as part of their employee benefits. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: Healthcare consumers can anticipate significant premium hikes in 2026, driven by the looming expiration of enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Reports indicate that many states could see premiums increase by as much as 66%, with average national hikes exceeding 20%. These increases stem from soaring medical costs and projected double-digit rate adjustments proposed by major insurers, putting additional financial strain on millions of Americans reliant on marketplace plans. If not addressed, this combination of factors could push some consumers' out-of-pocket healthcare expenses up by 75% or more, effectively pricing many individuals out of adequate coverage. Click here to learn more

'Genuine Parts employees who recognize the emotional impact of market swings and adopt strategies to balance growth with principal preservation can better position themselves for long-term financial health, rather than letting short-term fear drive critical decisions.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Genuine Parts employees who combine disciplined strategies like anchor and protected accumulation approaches can help reduce the influence of loss aversion and support more consistent retirement outcomes over time.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

The impact of market volatility on investment behavior and long-term growth for Genuine Parts employees.
Two established strategies—anchor strategy and protected accumulation—for balancing growth and principal preservation.
Key considerations and practical tips for addressing loss aversion, including the role of diversification and liquidity in retirement portfolios.

In unpredictable markets, Genuine Parts employees can find balance between building wealth and managing losses.

Market volatility often triggers strong emotional responses, especially the fear of losing hard-earned savings. For Genuine Parts employees, it’s important to recognize that decisions made out of fear—such as selling off assets during market downturns—can have lasting negative effects. For instance, after the 2008–2009 financial crisis, many investors shifted large sums into cash and missed out on the long-term gains that followed, demonstrating how efforts to sidestep risk can inadvertently limit future growth.

Market swings are a constant, but impulsive reactions to short-term turbulence can disrupt even the most well-crafted investment plan. Maintaining some exposure to equities is essential for long-term growth, yet hesitancy due to risk aversion is common. As Wealth Enhancement advisor Wesley Boudreaux notes, this reluctance may hinder wealth building for Genuine Parts workers, particularly as inflation reduces the value of cash held on the sidelines.

The good news is that prioritizing both growth and limiting losses does not have to be an either/or proposition. Genuine Parts employees can use established strategies that help reduce downside risk while still participating in potential market gains.

Why Timing the Market Rarely Works

Attempting to “time the market” by guessing ups and downs is notoriously difficult, even for seasoned professionals. Missing just a few of the market’s strongest days can substantially cut long-term returns. According to Fidelity research, skipping the ten best days in a 20-year period could reduce overall gains by half. ¹ For Genuine Parts team members, fully stepping away from stocks could mean missing out on one of the best long-term tools for keeping up with inflation and meeting income needs throughout retirement.

Those with a time horizon of at least five to ten years may benefit from strategies that balance market participation with preservation of principal. The anchor strategy and protected accumulation approach are two practical methods Genuine Parts employees can consider.

Anchor Strategy: Building Stability Into Your Portfolio

This approach divides a retirement portfolio into two parts: a conservative “anchor” and a growth-focused section. The anchor portion often uses certificates of deposit (CDs) or single-premium deferred annuities (SPDAs) that offer fixed or consistent returns. For example, investing $82,200 in a five-year SPDA yielding 4.0% can mature to $100,000, ² with the remaining funds allocated to stocks or equity funds for growth potential. The anchor provides the reassurance that the initial principal is restored at maturity, even if growth investments underperform.

For cautious Genuine Parts employees, this technique helps reduce the likelihood of losing initial investments. However, it’s important to remember that inflation can still erode purchasing power over time. Additionally, annuity or CD interest in taxable accounts may be subject to annual taxes, even though tax-deferred accounts offer certain benefits.

Protected Accumulation: Growth Potential Plus Principal Preservation

This approach leverages certain deferred variable annuities—especially those with a Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Benefit (GMAB) rider. Under this strategy, Genuine Parts employees may invest a higher percentage in equities, sometimes more than the 15–20% seen in anchor portfolios. The GMAB feature, for a fee, provides for the principal to be restored to at least the original investment after a set period, even if the market underperforms. ³

An additional advantage is the “step-up” option found in many GMAB riders. If your investments increase, you can reset your principal floor to the new higher value, locking in gains and beginning a new investment period. For example, if your Genuine Parts retirement portfolio with a GMAB rider grows from $100,000 to $110,000 in the first year, you can set $110,000 as your new principal floor. However, note that step-ups may result in higher fees, and annuity features vary among providers.

As with all financial tools, Genuine Parts employees should review terms, features, and costs carefully when considering annuities or other investment products.

What Genuine Parts Employees Should Consider When Addressing Loss Aversion

Choosing between these approaches depends on factors like your investment goals, interest rate environment, product fees, time horizon, and risk tolerance. While both strategies may help limit concerns about loss, they may also restrict the full potential of a diversified portfolio. Studies show that investors may experience greater long-term success with a balanced mix of stocks, bonds, and other assets. ⁴

Liquidity is another key factor for Genuine Parts staff. Both annuities and CDs often impose penalties for early withdrawal, which can eat into returns. The protected accumulation strategy may be less suitable for those with shorter investment horizons (under ten years).

Ultimately, psychology shapes investment decisions. For Genuine Parts employees, knowing that principal is preserved can make it easier to pursue growth opportunities without moving entirely out of equities.

Conclusion

While loss aversion is normal, it shouldn’t be the only driver of your investment choices. Genuine Parts employees are encouraged to weigh their personal goals, risk tolerance, and portfolio needs when considering protected accumulation or anchor strategies. Consulting with a financial professional can also help maintain proper diversification and tax efficiency. Careful planning allows Genuine Parts workers to navigate retirement savings through changing market conditions without letting fear dictate decisions.

Combining a ladder of bonds with dividend-paying stocks is another approach for Genuine Parts retirees to consider. Bond ladders can reduce interest rate risk and provide steady income, ⁵ while dividend equities offer both income and growth potential.

Managing your Genuine Parts retirement portfolio to balance growth and principal preservation is like preparing a ship for a long voyage: the protected accumulation approach serves as a reinforced hull, shielding you from rough waves, while the anchor strategy keeps your financial ship steady during storms. By using both strategies, Genuine Parts employees can confidently navigate market volatility while seeking new opportunities to grow their retirement savings.

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Sources:

1. Fidelity Investments. “ What high inflation and market volatility mean for retirees ,” Fidelity, n.d. Accessed 13 July 2025.

2. Fidelity Viewpoints. “ Fighting loss aversion: How to stay invested for growth ,” Fidelity, n.d. Accessed 13 July 2025.

3. Investopedia. “ Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Benefit (GMAB), ” by Julia Kagan. July 25, 2024.

4. BlackRock. ' Diversifying investments .' Portfolio Construction Modules. 2025.

5. Vanguard. “ Bond trading strategies: Ladders, barbells & swaps .” Vanguard, n.d. Accessed 13 July 2025.

What benefits does the GPC Pension Plan provide to employees of Genuine Parts Company, and how are these benefits calculated for both Group 1 and Group 2 employees? In the context of Genuine Parts Company, what are the critical factors that determine the pension benefits for employees and how have recent changes to the plan affected these calculations?

The benefits of the GPC Pension Plan for Genuine Parts Company employees are calculated based on the employee’s Final Average Monthly Earnings (FAME) and years of Credited Service. For Group 1 employees, benefits are frozen as of December 31, 2013, with the FAME calculated from the five highest-paid years within the last ten years of service before that date. For Group 2 employees, benefits are similarly frozen as of December 31, 2008, and the same calculation of FAME is applied using the highest earnings before that freeze date(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

How do the eligibility requirements of the GPC Pension Plan differ between Group 1 and Group 2 employees at Genuine Parts Company? Additionally, what specific service requirements must employees meet to qualify for the benefits under each group, particularly considering the impact of employment history and rehire status on benefits?

Eligibility requirements differ between Group 1 and Group 2 employees. Group 1 includes employees with Rule of 70 status, who opted to continue participation in the plan after January 1, 2009. Group 2 employees, which include those rehired before December 31, 2013, had their Credited Service frozen earlier in 2008. Group 1 employees have Credited Service frozen as of December 31, 2013, while Group 2’s freeze date is December 31, 2008(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

What strategies can employees of Genuine Parts Company consider for optimizing their pension benefits when transitioning to retirement? Are there specific actions that employees should take prior to retirement to enhance their benefit calculations under the GPC Pension Plan, particularly in relation to Credited Service and Final Average Monthly Earnings?

To optimize pension benefits, Genuine Parts Company employees should focus on maximizing Credited Service and Final Average Monthly Earnings (FAME). Ensuring a full work history before the freeze date (2013 for Group 1, 2008 for Group 2) can enhance the benefit calculation. Employees can also review their Social Security benefit estimates, which are considered in calculating their pension(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

How does the vesting process work for employees participating in the GPC Pension Plan at Genuine Parts Company, and what implications does it have for those contemplating early retirement? Furthermore, how does the ability to vest at different service intervals specifically impact the retirement planning of employees?

The vesting process for the GPC Pension Plan requires employees to accumulate vesting service years, which continues even after the freeze date. Employees are automatically fully vested after seven years of service, or if they worked at least one hour after December 31, 2013. Vesting ensures the right to the earned pension benefits, which may affect retirement planning, especially for those contemplating early retirement(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

What information should Genuine Parts Company employees know about the different forms of payment available under the GPC Pension Plan once they reach retirement age? How do options such as life annuities and lump-sum payments affect the overall financial planning for retiring employees?

Genuine Parts Company employees can choose from various forms of pension payments upon retirement, including life annuities, joint and survivor annuities, and lump-sum payments. Each option affects financial planning differently: life annuities provide steady income, while lump sums offer flexibility but require careful management to ensure long-term financial stability(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

In the event of a termination of employment, what options are available for employees of Genuine Parts Company to access their pension benefits under the GPC Pension Plan? Additionally, what are the specific procedures that employees must follow to ensure they receive their benefits in a timely manner?

In the event of termination, employees who are vested can access their pension benefits, either at their normal retirement age or earlier if they meet the eligibility criteria for early retirement. Employees must submit a request within 180 days of their termination date to receive benefits, with options for lump sum payments for amounts under $75,000(Genuine Parts Company_P…)(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

How can employees of Genuine Parts Company ensure that their beneficiaries are appropriately named under the GPC Pension Plan? What considerations should employees keep in mind when designating beneficiaries, particularly understanding consent needs for spouses and the impact of domestic relations orders?

Genuine Parts Company employees should ensure their beneficiaries are properly named, particularly if married. A spouse is the default beneficiary, but spousal consent is required if an employee designates someone else. Domestic relations orders may also affect beneficiary designations(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

What unique situations might affect the pension benefits of employees at Genuine Parts Company, and how does the plan specifically address employees on military leave or long-term disability? In these circumstances, what communication strategies should employees employ to navigate their benefits?

For employees on military leave or long-term disability, the GPC Pension Plan provides special rules for calculating benefits. These employees should maintain close communication with the Employee Service Center to ensure their benefits are appropriately adjusted(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

Regarding the reporting and update of personal information, why is it essential for employees of Genuine Parts Company to keep the GPC Employee Service Center informed about any changes in marital status or address? How can failure to report these changes potentially impact the pension benefits they receive?

Employees must keep the GPC Employee Service Center informed of any changes in marital status or address, as failure to do so could result in delayed or incorrect pension benefit payments(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

How can employees at Genuine Parts Company reach out for further clarification on the details presented in the Summary Plan Description of the GPC Pension Plan? What resources or contact points are available that could assist in navigating the complexities of the pension plan, ensuring employees can maximize their benefits effectively?

Genuine Parts Company employees can reach out to the GPC Retirement Plan Services through their toll-free number or website for clarification on the pension plan details. These resources are crucial for navigating the complexities of the pension system(Genuine Parts Company_P…).

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 Name of the Pension Plan: Genuine Parts Company Defined Benefit Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees generally need to have at least 5 years of service to qualify for benefits. Full benefits typically begin at age 65, but early retirement options may be available with reduced benefits. Pension Formula: The pension is calculated based on a formula that takes into account the employee's years of service and average salary over the highest-paid years. 401(k) Plan Name of the 401(k) Plan: Genuine Parts Company 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing 30 days of service. 401(k) Plan Details: The plan allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary to a tax-deferred account, with potential company matching contributions.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Genuine Parts announced a significant restructuring initiative aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. This restructuring plan includes the reduction of approximately 5% of its workforce across various divisions. This move is expected to help the company better adapt to market fluctuations and optimize its operational costs. The restructuring reflects broader industry trends as companies adapt to evolving economic pressures and changing market dynamics.

Genuine Parts Company (GPC) Stock Options and RSUs in 2022 GPC offered stock options and RSUs to executives and key employees as part of their compensation package. The stock options typically included a strike price set at market value at the grant date. RSUs granted by GPC generally vested over a period of three to four years, with the exact vesting schedule specified in individual agreements. Genuine Parts Company (GPC) Stock Options and RSUs in 2023 In 2023, GPC continued to offer stock options and RSUs to their management team and senior employees. The stock options were often part of performance-based compensation. The RSUs were allocated with a focus on aligning employee incentives with company performance, typically vesting in tranches over a multi-year period. Genuine Parts Company (GPC) Stock Options and RSUs in 2024 For 2024, GPC maintained its stock option and RSU programs, enhancing the benefits for senior executives and select high-performing employees. The company adjusted the vesting criteria and performance metrics for RSUs to reflect the company's strategic goals and market conditions.

1. Official Website and Key Benefits Information Genuine Parts Company Official Website Visit: Genuine Parts Careers Review sections on employee benefits and health plans. Look for specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms. Key Terms and Acronyms: HDHP: High Deductible Health Plan HSA: Health Savings Account EAP: Employee Assistance Program FSA: Flexible Spending Account PPO: Preferred Provider Organization HMO: Health Maintenance Organization Recent Updates: Genuine Parts Company offers comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision plans. They also provide wellness programs and access to telemedicine services. 2. Reliable Sources and Recent Employee Healthcare News a. Glassdoor Search for Genuine Parts Company’s benefits reviews. Look for employee feedback on healthcare coverage and recent changes. b. Indeed Check employee reviews and Q&A sections for insights into health benefits. c. LinkedIn Explore company posts and employee discussions about health benefits. d. BenefitsPro Look for articles or reports on Genuine Parts Company’s health benefits updates and changes. e. Business Insider Search for news articles related to recent changes in health benefits or related employee programs at Genuine Parts. 3. Summary of Findings Healthcare Plans: Genuine Parts offers a range of health insurance options including PPO and HDHP plans, with contributions to HSAs and FSAs. They also provide access to preventive care and wellness programs. Recent Changes: Recent updates to their health benefits have included enhancements to telemedicine services and expanded mental health support through EAP programs. Employee Feedback: Employees generally appreciate the comprehensive coverage but have noted that premium costs and deductibles can be high.