Luxottica Employees: Smarter Ways to Manage Taxes on Appreciated Stock
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Luxottica
Luxottica utilizes EssilorLuxottica, its parent company, as its primary healthcare provider. EssilorLuxottica has made significant strides in integrating wellness and health services for its employees to ensure they receive comprehensive healthcare tailored to their needs.
Upcoming Healthcare Cost Increases for 2026
As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly, with estimates indicating potential increases of up to 75% in out-of-pocket premiums for many consumers. This surge is largely attributed to the anticipated expiration of enhanced ACA premium subsidies and simultaneous rate hikes from major insurers, with states like New York reporting increases as high as 66%. Coupled with ongoing inflation in medical costs and a spike in demand for healthcare services, companies like Luxottica may see substantial financial pressure, necessitating strategic planning to mitigate the impact on both employees and operational budgets.
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'Luxottica employees with concentrated stock positions may benefit from thoughtful tax planning that allows for tax deferral while balancing liquidity, compliance, and long-term compounding,' Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'Luxottica employees who hold highly-appreciated stock may want to consider tax-efficient strategies that help mitigate their liabilities while aligning with their overall retirement goals,' Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
How taxes can affect investment returns, particularly on concentrated stock positions.
Exchange funds and options-based strategies as methods for tax deferral and diversification.
Alternative planning techniques outside ETFs, including charitable trusts and gifting strategies.
By Carlos Hernandez, Wealth Enhancement advisor
When it comes to driving portfolio returns, many investors aim to keep management fees low by investing in low-cost index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). While fees matter, however, the real culprit for lower-than-anticipated performance is taxes.
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Wealth Enhancement advisor Carlos Hernandez explains: 'By losing less to taxes each year, investors have access to more capital that can continue to compound over time. This makes tax deferral an important part of an effective financial plan.' Luxottica employees looking for long-term growth strategies could benefit by understanding how to better manage their investment tax burdens.
Trade Money
One area where taxes can take a toll is on the sale of company stock or other concentrated investment positions. Luxottica professionals looking to diversify could face significant capital gains taxes on an outright sale. One way to diversify without triggering immediate capital gains is through exchange funds. By contributing their highy-appreciated stock to a pooled fund, investors can trade their concentrated holdings for shares in a diverse basket of securities. This method can be used by Luxottica employees who want to diversify while postponing taxable events.
Although this method allows for tax deferral, it also requires investors to hold the exchange fund for a period of time, typically seven years.
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This could create a challenge for investors who require liquidity. Additionally, these funds are often exclusively accessible to wealthy, accredited investors—something Luxottica executives should carefully evaluate.
Funds Based on Options
Another way to mitigate taxes on the sale of highly-appreciated stock is by using options contracts. The idea is to hedge risk with put options while covering the cost of those puts by selling call options—a strategy called 'collaring'. From there, the strategy reverses, with investors selling put options and using the proceeds to buy call option on an equity or bond index.
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If managed effectively, this helps to diversify a concentrated portfolio while still maintaining liquidity.
Given the complexity of this strategy, meticulous planning is necessary. It's generally recommended that investors work with an experienced financial advisor before pursuing this approach.
Things to Be Aware of
Although these strategies can be beneficial for Luxottica employees who hold highly-appreciated stock, caution is recommended. There are costs associated with these approaches, and potential liquidity risks. Additionally, the IRS may eventually contest such arrangements because their tax status has not been thoroughly examined—something Luxottica retirees should keep top of mind.
'Tax drag reduction strategies can be effective, but they must be assessed through the lens of risk, liquidity, cost, and compliance,' warns Carlos Hernandez. What is appealing in theory must hold up to inspection in the real world.
Alternative Strategies
Although they show promise, investors with highly-appreciated stock or those looking to postpone gains have other alternatives besides exchange funds or options. Other tactics could include:
- Prepaid variable forwards (subject to IRS regulations, contracts to sell at predetermined terms in the future).
- Charitable remainder trusts (CRTs), which allow investors to donate appreciated stock to a charitable trust and receive a stream of regular income in return.
- Donor-advised funds (DAFs), which provide investors with a tax deduction for the fair market value of the appreciated stock they donate.
- Other gifting techniques, such as direct donations to charity or family.
Each has its own set of guidelines, advantages, and disadvantages. To limit unnecessary taxes or violating the constructive sale regulations, careful planning is necessary for Luxottica professionals managing complex portfolios.
The Bottom Line
Although the movement to mitigate the tax burden on investments is not new, the instruments are changing. Both exchange funds and options-based structures offer investors a way to manage tax liabilities, especially for Luxottica employees who hold highly-appreciated stock.
In the end, taxes are unavoidable. However, with the correct set of instruments, they can be controlled and postponed. 'The real value comes from aligning tax strategy with investment strategy,' summarizes Carlos Hernandez.
What is the purpose of Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The purpose of Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.
How can I enroll in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?
You can enroll in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What types of contributions can I make to Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and potentially catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan.
Does Luxottica offer a company match on 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Luxottica provides a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.
What is the vesting schedule for Luxottica's 401(k) company match?
The vesting schedule for Luxottica's 401(k) company match typically follows a graded schedule, where employees earn ownership of the match over a specified period of service.
Can I change my contribution amount in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution amount at any time during the year by submitting a request through the HR portal or contacting HR.
What investment options are available in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
How often can I reallocate my investments in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can reallocate their investments in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan as often as they wish, subject to any specific trading restrictions set by the plan.
Is there a loan option available in Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Luxottica's 401(k) Savings Plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance under certain conditions.
What happens to my Luxottica 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?
If you leave Luxottica, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or another employer's plan, or cashing it out, though cashing out may incur taxes and penalties.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Luxottica provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Luxottica matches a percentage of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options, such as target-date funds and mutual funds. Luxottica provides financial planning resources and tools to help employees manage their retirement savings.
EssilorLuxottica, formed from the merger of Luxottica and Essilor, has announced the consolidation of marketing jobs from Mason, Ohio to New York, with other corporate functions moving to Dallas. This restructuring is aimed at improving collaboration and building a unified corporate culture. While hundreds of jobs are being relocated, positions in EyeMed Vision Insurance, IT, and legal departments will remain in Mason. In response to economic pressures, EssilorLuxottica has decided to cancel its dividend for the fiscal year 2023 and reduce directors' pay. This measure is intended to mitigate financial impacts and ensure business continuity. The company may propose a special dividend payment later if the business recovery is robust enough.
Luxottica includes RSUs in its compensation packages, vesting over a specific period and providing shares upon vesting. Stock options are not typically part of their compensation plan.
Luxottica has designed its employee healthcare benefits to adapt to the dynamic economic and political climate of recent years. In 2023 and 2024, Luxottica has offered multiple medical and dental insurance plan options, ensuring comprehensive coverage for their employees. These options include high-deductible health plans with Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions of $500 for employees and an additional $500 for their spouses. The company also provides free vision insurance, leveraging its expertise in the eyewear industry to offer significant eyewear and product discounts to its employees. Additionally, Luxottica's benefits package includes a robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP), mental health support, and wellness initiatives to promote overall well-being (HACONTENT) (EssilorLuxottica Group Jobs).
In the current economic landscape, addressing healthcare benefits is crucial for attracting and retaining talent. Luxottica's approach to employee benefits reflects a broader trend where companies seek to balance cost management with high-quality healthcare provision. The emphasis on personalized healthcare plans and comprehensive support systems underscores the company's commitment to employee satisfaction and productivity. By integrating wellness programs and flexible healthcare options, Luxottica not only addresses immediate healthcare needs but also contributes to the long-term well-being of its workforce. Discussing healthcare benefits remains important as companies navigate economic uncertainties and healthcare regulations, ensuring that employees receive the necessary support to thrive both personally and professionally (HACONTENT) (EssilorLuxottica Group Jobs).
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Luxottica at 1000 nicollet mall Minneapolis, MN 55403; or by calling them at 612-696-6098.
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