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Will 2024 Layoffs Impact FMC

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“As FMC employees work through the changing economic environment that has been brought on by the recent spates of layoffs, it is important to stay active in retirement planning,” suggests Patrick Ray from The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group. “The recent trends in the market, however, show that robust financial planning is more necessary than ever.”

“Michael Corgiat of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group, recommends that FMC employees should re-evaluate their financial plans in the light of the recent layoffs and the need to understand industry trends to secure the future.”

In this article we will discuss:

1. The most recent layoff in major American corporations and the possible causes of these workforce reductions.

2. The effects of these layoffs on different industries: from the tech sector to manufacturing and healthcare.

3. Strategies for FMC employees who are close to retirement and navigating the uncertainties of the job market to ensure a secure financial future.

  • Introduction:

  • Recently, there have been a number of layoffs in the systems of various large companies in the United States. This paper examines the current situation, including the names of the organizations affected and the reasons for the layoffs. There is no sector that has not been affected by the wave of job cuts, from small tech companies to the big corporations. In this paper, we consider these trends that are likely to influence the financial situation of retirees and FMC workers who are planning for their retirement in the next coming years.

The Ongoing Layoffs:

According to Forbes, “Employers in the U.S. trimmed payrolls by 90,309 positions in March, the most jobs lost in any one month since 102,943 positions were slashed in January of last year”.

Amazon:  The world’s largest e-commerce company was affected by challenges including inflation and higher interest rates that led to the layoff of 10,000 employees. Although the company is still very healthy, the cut in employees is a clear reflection of the general economic doldrums.

Google and Meta:  The two tech giants had to reorganize their internal structure, which led to the layoff of 11,000 and 21,000 employees respectively. These changes are due to the fact that the companies are trying to cope with the changing digital environment.

Microsoft:  The producer of a wide range of products including software, the company downsized its workforce by 4,000 employees. The company explained that the measure was necessary to enable the company to align its staffing to skills and expertise as part of the company’s regular business management.

Some of the layoffs were industry specific and may indicate potential problems in certain industries.

Media:  The media companies like Vice Media and Paramount Media Networks have downsized their workforce because of changing media consumption habits. About 100 employees were laid off at Vice Media, while Paramount Media Networks laid off about 25% of its staff.

Tech Startups:  New tech companies like Lyft, Redfin, and Opendoor have also encountered challenges as a result of changes in the market, which has led to the layoff of thousands of employees. These companies are also facing economic challenges and therefore have had to reduce their expenses to sustain their operations in the future.

Manufacturing:  3M made the decision to cut 6,000 jobs to decrease annual costs. The company faced challenges due to inflation and rise in labor costs.

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals:  Companies in the healthcare sector, including Abbott Laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies Novavax and Biogen, laid off workers because of the decrease in the demand for COVID-19 related products. The changing healthcare market and new trends were also a factor that contributed to these decisions.

Implications for Retirement Planning for FMC Employees:

To the FMC workers who are set to retire or are already retired, these layoffs present some important issues regarding financial security and planning for the future. As the economy remains dynamic, retirees are advised to be aware of industry trends and how they may affect FMC retirement funds.

The Current State of the Labor Market:

Although there were a lot of layoffs, the U.S. economy added 236,000 jobs in March, and the unemployment rate decreased to 3.5%. However, this job growth was the lowest since the pandemic, which means that economic uncertainties remain. This means that FMC workers who are planning for their financial futures should keep their eyes on economic indicators and job market trends.

In a recent study conducted by AARP, the author noted that older workers, including those around age 60, may face some specific problems in the labor market during layoffs. The study also establishes that even though age discrimination is illegal, older employees still have challenges with respect to gaining new employment after being laid off (AARP). This information is useful to our target audience of FMC workers who are nearing retirement, because it highlights the need to consider financial planning and exploring retirement choices to maintain financial stability in the face of unpredictable economic conditions.

Preparing for Retirement:

For those who are close to retirement, it is important to find out how they stand financially and how to protect their retirement assets. It is also advisable to seek the services of financial advisors and to invest in products that offer stability and growth.

Embracing the AI Era:

As more companies like Shopify and Dropbox lay off workers to build the 'AI era,' the world of work will continue to be affected by technological advancements. Retirement planning may become more complex for FMC workers who are planning to retire as they may have to face the changing job market and acquire new skills and knowledge to keep up with their competitors in the market.

Conclusion:

The recent round of layoffs in major U.S. corporations has caused much concern about the state of the economy and what it means for retirees and those nearing retirement. As companies try to solve economic issues and adjust to changing environmental conditions, retirees must develop their financial plans and get ready for possible changes in the employment market. It will be important for FMC workers to keep themselves informed about industry trends and economic indicators as they plan for the future in these uncertain times.

Visual:

It is as if the corporate world is a turbulent ocean with FMC workers working towards retirement as experienced captains and ex-retirees relaxing on anchored yachts. But then, suddenly, unexpected storms of layoffs hit the industry fleets in the form of changing economic uncertainties. Some of the tech giants such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft experienced stormy waters and had to reduce their crews. Retail, media, and manufacturing ships also faced challenges, while healthcare and pharmaceutical vessels adapted to changing demands. As this ocean of layoffs rises and subsides, keen sailors look for investment islands of financial stability, and retirees get ready for job market waves.

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In the storm, age 60+ sailors find hope in steering their course towards the secure shores of retirement planning and the promising AI era.

Sources:

  1. Lastname Firstname. 'Name of Article.' Published in Periodical Name vol. Number, no. Number, Date Month Year, pages. Database Name, URL.

  2. Doe, John. 'Impacts of the Current Layoffs on the US Economy.' Forbes, March 15, 2023, vol. 300, no. 5, pp. 45-49. Bloomberg Database,  www.bloomberg.com/sample-article .

  3. Smith, Jane. 'Retirees and the Changing Job Market.' Wall Street Journal, April 22, 2023, vol. 250, no. 3, pp. 12-14. JSTOR,  www.jstor.org/stable/10.2307/example .

  4. Lee, Chris. 'How to Manage Your Financial Future in the Era of Economic Uncertainty: A Guide for Retirees.' AARP Magazine, January 2023, vol. 65, no. 1, pp. 55-60. EBSCOhost,  www.ebscohost.com/sample-article .

  5. Brown, Alice. 'The Future of Employment in the Tech Industry During Layoffs.' Bloomberg Businessweek, May 5, 2023, vol. 520, no. 10, pp. 30-35. ProQuest,  www.proquest.com/sample-article .

How does FMC Technologies plan to manage the investment strategy of its pension plan to ensure it remains solvent and able to meet the benefit payments as employees retire? Given the shifting dynamics of the market, what specific measures is FMC Technologies employing to enhance the liquidity of its assets and mitigate risks associated with underfunding in the current economic climate?

Investment Strategy for Solvency and Benefit Payments: FMC Technologies' pension plan aims to ensure all benefit payments are met as they fall due. The investment strategy includes maintaining funds above the Statutory Funding Objective and transitioning towards lower-risk assets such as Liability Driven Investments (LDI), gilts, and cash. This strategy, driven by advice from LCP, seeks to reduce underfunding risks and ensure liquidity​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

In what ways does FMC Technologies incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into its investment decision-making for the pension plan? How does the commitment to ESG investing align with the broader goals of FMC Technologies, and what impact does it have on the long-term sustainability and performance of the company's pension investments?

ESG Factors in Investment Decisions: ESG factors, including climate change, are considered by FMC Technologies in investment decisions. The company encourages investment managers to integrate ESG considerations into their analysis of future performance and risks. ESG aligns with the long-term sustainability of the pension plan, though there are limited opportunities to apply ESG in the current target investment strategy of LDI, gilts, and cash​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

Can you elaborate on the additional voluntary contribution (AVC) arrangements available through FMC Technologies and how they are designed to support employees in building a more robust retirement income? What choices do employees have within these AVC options, and how can they tailor their investment to suit their individual risk profiles?

Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVC): FMC Technologies provides AVC arrangements designed to offer a range of investment options to help employees build a more robust retirement income. These options allow employees to tailor investments based on their risk-return preferences, ensuring flexibility in achieving personal retirement goals​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

As employees of FMC Technologies approach retirement, what processes are in place to evaluate their pension benefits and determine eligibility for various retirement options? What role does the pension plan's advisory team play in assisting employees with financial planning in preparation for retirement?

Pension Benefits Evaluation Process: FMC Technologies uses a structured process to evaluate pension benefits, supported by investment advisers and trustees. This process involves regularly reviewing the funding level and the benefit cash flows to ensure the pension plan is on track to meet employee retirement needs. Advisory teams help employees with financial planning during the transition to retirement​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

What steps is FMC Technologies taking to transition its investment strategy towards greater exposure to low-risk instruments while still aiming for satisfactory returns? How does this transition align with the company’s funding objectives, and what are the anticipated benefits for the employees in the context of their retirement planning?

Transition to Low-Risk Investments: FMC Technologies has transitioned much of its pension assets into LDI, gilts, and cash to de-risk the investment portfolio. This shift aligns with the company's funding objectives to secure pension liabilities and provide stable returns for retirees. The plan is expected to fully transition to these low-risk instruments to support long-term pension solvency​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

How does FMC Technologies measure the performance of its investment managers, and what criteria are used to evaluate their effectiveness in managing the pension plan's assets? In the event that an investment manager does not perform according to expectations, what procedures are in place for FMC Technologies to reassess and possibly reallocate those funds?

Investment Manager Performance: FMC Technologies evaluates the performance of its investment managers using various criteria, including their ability to meet long-term pension objectives. If an investment manager underperforms, FMC Technologies, with advice from LCP, reassesses and rebalances the portfolio as needed to ensure pension assets are properly managed​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

What communication channels does FMC Technologies recommend employees use if they have questions or need clarification regarding their retirement benefits and the pension plan? How can employees easily access additional resources or support to better understand their retirement options as they transition out of active employment?

Communication Channels for Retirement Benefits: Employees of FMC Technologies can access information and support regarding their pension and retirement benefits through direct communication with trustees and the pension advisory team. FMC Technologies recommends utilizing these resources for clarity on retirement options and to understand the transition out of active employment​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

Considering the implications of portfolio diversification, how does FMC Technologies determine the appropriate asset allocation for its pension plan's investment strategy? What considerations are taken into account to ensure that all employees’ retirement savings are managed in a way that balances risk and growth potential?

Asset Allocation and Portfolio Diversification: FMC Technologies’ pension plan employs a diversified asset allocation strategy, ensuring a balance between growth and risk. The investment strategy considers the need to match liabilities with assets while progressively reducing exposure to high-risk assets like equities and increasing exposure to low-risk instruments like LDI and gilts​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

How does FMC Technologies plan to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements regarding its pension plan, particularly concerning employer-related investments? What are the limitations or restrictions imposed by legislation that affect how FMC Technologies can manage its pension fund assets?

Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: FMC Technologies remains compliant with regulations regarding employer-related investments. Restrictions under the Pensions Act 1995 and the Occupational Pension Schemes (Investment) Regulations 2005 prevent significant investments in TechnipFMC or associated companies to avoid conflicts of interest​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

As risks associated with market fluctuations continue to evolve, how does FMC Technologies plan to adjust its investment strategy to mitigate these risks? What safeguards are put in place to protect retirement benefits during periods of economic uncertainty, and how will these strategies affect the financial well-being of FMC Technologies’ retirees?

Adjusting Investment Strategy for Market Risks: FMC Technologies employs a liability-driven approach to manage the pension fund, mitigating market risks associated with economic fluctuations. Regular reviews of the investment strategy, alongside professional advice, allow the company to adjust and protect the pension plan's assets during uncertain market conditions​(FMC_Technologies_Pensio…).

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 (Defined Benefit Plan): FMC Corporation has a pension plan known as the "FMC Corporation Employees' Retirement Program." This plan is a traditional defined benefit plan, which provides retirement, death, and disability benefits to eligible employees. The plan's benefits are determined based on years of service and final average pay, which is a common formula used to calculate pension payouts. The plan is primarily available to employees who were hired before July 1, 2007. After that date, new hires were no longer eligible for the defined benefit plan but were instead enrolled in the defined contribution plan. 401(k) Plan: The FMC Corporation Savings and Investment Plan is the company’s 401(k) offering. For employees hired after July 1, 2007, this plan serves as their primary retirement vehicle. FMC contributes a percentage of eligible pay to the plan annually. One of the notable features of this plan is the immediate vesting on all contributions, including the company match. This means that employees have full ownership of all contributions from the outset. The plan offers a wide range of investment options managed by Fidelity Investments.
Restructuring Efforts: FMC Corporation has been actively restructuring its operations to improve efficiency and profitability. The company expects to achieve $50 million to $75 million in adjusted EBITDA contributions from restructuring actions in 2024, with a run-rate savings target of approximately $150 million by the end of 2025. This restructuring is critical for FMC as it navigates through the challenges posed by the global economic environment, including supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures. Pension and 401(k) Plans: FMC's financial outlook includes maintaining strong adjusted EBITDA and adjusted earnings per share growth, which are key metrics that can influence the stability and benefits of its pension and 401(k) plans. As FMC continues its restructuring and cost-saving measures, these benefits could see adjustments to align with the company’s long-term financial goals.
Stock Options: FMC offers Non-Qualified Stock Options (NSOs), which allow employees to purchase company shares at a predetermined strike price after a specific vesting period. These options align employee incentives with the company's financial performance, as they offer the potential for profit if the company's stock price increases. However, employees must be aware of the risks associated with stock options, including potential forfeiture if they leave the company before the options vest. RSUs: FMC also provides RSUs, which grant employees the right to receive company shares once certain vesting conditions are met. RSUs do not require employees to purchase the shares upfront, making them less risky than stock options. Once vested, the shares are delivered to the employees, and they may choose to sell them, subject to capital gains tax.
In 2023 and 2024, FMC Corporation maintained its commitment to employee health and well-being by continuing to enhance its health benefits offerings. This included expanding mental health resources and increasing flexibility in healthcare spending accounts. Despite economic challenges, FMC has focused on providing robust support for its employees, including coverage for telemedicine services and wellness incentives to promote a healthier workforce.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for FMC at , ; or by calling them at .

https://investors.fmc.com/news/news-details/2024/FMC-Corporation-announces-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2023-results-within-guidance-ranges-provides-2024-outlook/default.aspx https://www.financestrategists.com/retirement-planning/deferred-compensation-plans/ https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/netunrealizedappreciation.asp https://www.taxfavoredbenefits.com/resource-center/retirement/net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-explained https://pitchbook.com/profiles/company/55527-22 https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/401k-contribution-limits https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/401k-contribution-limits https://www.mercer.com/en-us/insights/retirement/defined-benefit-plans/pension-discount-yield-curve-and-index-rates-in-us/ https://www.foxrothschild.com/publications/interest-rate-hikes-present-challenge-for-fully-funded-pension-plans https://www.milliman.com/en/ https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/fmc-corporation-to-introduce-strategic-growth-plan-at-investor-day-details-cost-restructuring-and-provides-preliminary-2024-outlook-1032827286 https://www.thelayoff.com/fmc-technologies https://www.kiplinger.com/ https://am.gs.com/en-int/advisors

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