New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

What Phillips 66 Employees Should Know About the Latest Fed Rate Cut

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Phillips 66 Phillips 66 offers healthcare coverage through multiple providers, primarily Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), depending on the employee's home ZIP code. Employees also have access to a Kaiser HMO option if they live in designated areas of California or Washington. The medical plans include comprehensive coverage for various healthcare services, including preventive care, regular checkups, mental health, and substance use disorder treatments. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 Healthcare costs for Phillips 66 employees can be expected to rise significantly in 2026, reflecting broader trends impacting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. As major insurers are filing for rate increases that may exceed 60% in certain states, Phillips 66 employees could face steep hikes in out-of-pocket premiums, especially if federal subsidies are not extended. The combination of escalating medical costs and the potential loss of enhanced subsidies means many employees may see their premium costs increase substantially, leaving them with difficult choices regarding their healthcare coverage amidst these changing economic conditions. Click here to learn more

'Phillips 66 employees should recognize that recent rate shifts underscore the importance of regularly reviewing retirement cash flow plans and adapting to evolving economic conditions, rather than waiting for perfect data to act.' — Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'With the Federal Reserve adjusting rates despite limited economic data, Phillips 66 employees should view this as a reminder to stay proactive and flexible in planning long-term retirement income strategies.' — Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How recent Federal Reserve decisions could impact retirement and investment planning.
The effects of interest rate cuts and balance sheet policy changes on borrowing, savings, and markets.
How The Retirement Group can assist with navigating these economic developments.

Important Takeaways

The Federal Reserve lowered the federal funds rate by 25 basis points at its most recent October meeting, even though the federal government shutdown caused delays in releasing key economic data. This development may be particularly relevant for Phillips 66 employees who monitor economic trends for retirement and investment planning.

The benchmark federal funds rate was reduced to its lowest level since September 2022, and now ranges between 3.75% and 4.00%. ¹

Along with the rate cut, the Federal Reserve announced it would end its quantitative tightening (QT), or balance sheet reduction process.

These policy shifts may affect savings rates, short-term borrowing costs, and overall market behaviour—factors that could influence retirement decisions for Phillips 66 employees.

The Fed’s Decision Despite Limited Data

The Federal Reserve typically relies on government-issued economic data to support policy decisions. However, during the government shutdown, many federal reports—including updates on employment and payroll growth—were paused. A delayed Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showed ~3% inflation in September. But no new unemployment or payroll data was available after early September. ²

Despite limited data, the Fed acted based on viewpoints shared at its September meeting, when many members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) signalled further rate cuts before year-end, supported by prior trends.

Before the shutdown began, interest rate levels were considered “restrictive”—meaning high enough to slow economic activity—and earlier reports signalled weakening labor market conditions that could be meaningful to Phillips 66 employees.

What the Rate Cut Means for Consumers and Investors

While the Federal Reserve controls short-term interest rates, it does not directly set rates for mortgages, bonds, or certificates of deposit (CDs).

Typical short-term effects of a rate cut can include:

- Changes to prime rate-linked borrowing costs, such as adjustable rate mortgages, certain credit cards, and home equity lines of credit.
- Lower returns on short-term fixed income vehicles, like money market funds, short-term Treasuries, and CDs.
- Potential support for financial markets—particularly equities—depending on broader economic conditions, which may be relevant to Phillips 66 retirement accounts or company stockholders.

Changes to the Federal Reserve’s Balance Sheet Strategy

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Reserve used quantitative easing (QE) to aid markets by purchasing large quantities of Treasury and mortgage-backed securities.

In 2022, the Fed shifted to quantitative tightening (QT), reducing its holdings primarily by not reinvesting maturing securities.

At its latest meeting, the Fed announced it would fully end QT rather than simply slow it.

Although these balance sheet adjustments may not be immediately obvious in day-to-day life, they can affect liquidity in the financial system and lending conditions, which may indirectly influence Phillips 66 employees.

How The Retirement Group Can Assist

Understanding how interest rate cuts, inflation trends, and Federal Reserve policy affect your retirement savings can be challenging. The Retirement Group can help you review how these economic shifts may relate to pension options, investment income planning, and retirement strategies tailored to your situation. For help, you can reach us at (800) 900-5867.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. nerdwallet. ' Fed Rate Drops for Second Time in 2025 ,' by Cara Smith. 21 Nov. 2025.

2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. ' Consumer Price Index ,' 24 Oct. 2025.

Other Resources:

1. Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. “Federal Reserve Issues FOMC Statement.” FederalReserve.gov, 29 Oct. 2025, https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20251029a.htm .

2. Schneider, Howard. “Fed Lowers Rates, but Powell Suggests Move May Be the Last of 2025.” Reuters, 29 Oct. 2025, https://www.reuters.com/business/fed-in-fog-it-heads-toward-another-rate-cut-2025-10-29/ .

3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “September 2025 CPI Release Rescheduled.” BLS.gov, 10 Oct. 2025, https://www.bls.gov/bls/092025-cpi-reschedule-notice.htm .

4. Ackerman, Andrew. “Consumer Prices in September Rise to a Pace Not Seen Since January.” The Washington Post, 24 Oct. 2025, https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/10/24/delayed-inflation-report-tariffs/ .

5. Foster, Sarah. “6 Ways the Fed’s Interest Rate Decisions Impact Your Money.” Bankrate, 2025, https://www.bankrate.com/banking/federal-reserve/how-federal-reserve-impacts-your-money/

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Phillips 66?

The 401(k) plan offered by Phillips 66 is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are deducted.

How does Phillips 66 match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Phillips 66 offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which typically matches a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.

When can employees at Phillips 66 enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Phillips 66 can enroll in the 401(k) plan during their initial eligibility period, which is typically within 30 days of their hire date.

What types of investment options are available in the Phillips 66 401(k) plan?

The Phillips 66 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

Can Phillips 66 employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Phillips 66 employees may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What is the vesting schedule for Phillips 66's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Phillips 66's 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded schedule, meaning employees earn rights to the match over a period of time.

How can Phillips 66 employees access their 401(k) account information?

Phillips 66 employees can access their 401(k) account information through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to a Phillips 66 employee's 401(k) if they leave the company?

If a Phillips 66 employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Phillips 66 plan if eligible.

Are there any fees associated with the Phillips 66 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with the Phillips 66 401(k) plan, including administrative fees and investment management fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

Can Phillips 66 employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Phillips 66 employees can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at certain times throughout the year, typically during open enrollment or at designated times.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Phillips 66 offers multiple pension plans, including a traditional defined benefit plan for employees hired before April 1, 2013, and a cash balance plan for those hired after this date. The defined benefit plan calculates retirement benefits based on years of service and final average pay. The cash balance plan credits a percentage of the employee's salary annually to an account that grows with interest. Additionally, Phillips 66 provides a 401(k) savings plan with company matching contributions to enhance retirement savings. Employees can manage their retirement accounts through the Vanguard platform.

Operational Changes: Phillips 66 is restructuring its business to focus more on its core refining and petrochemicals segments, leading to layoffs affecting around 1,500 employees (Source: Bloomberg). Strategic Initiatives: The company aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. Financial Performance: Phillips 66 reported a 10% increase in net sales for Q3 2023, driven by strong demand for its refining products (Source: Phillips 66).

Phillips 66 includes RSUs in its compensation packages, vesting over a specific period and converting into shares. Stock options are also provided, enabling employees to buy shares at a predetermined price.

Phillips 66 has actively enhanced its employee healthcare benefits to align with the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, the company introduced comprehensive health and wellness programs designed to support the overall well-being of its employees. These programs include a variety of medical plans, dental and vision coverage, health savings accounts, and wellness initiatives. Phillips 66 also emphasized mental health support by offering Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and stress management resources. These benefits reflect the company's commitment to fostering a healthy and productive workforce, which is essential for maintaining high performance in a competitive market. In 2023, Phillips 66 continued to expand its healthcare offerings by integrating new digital health solutions and enhancing access to preventive care services. The company introduced virtual health services and telemedicine options, ensuring employees have convenient access to healthcare professionals. Additionally, Phillips 66 focused on financial wellness, offering programs and resources to help employees manage their finances effectively and prepare for retirement. These initiatives are part of Phillips 66's broader strategy to create a supportive and inclusive work environment, which is critical for attracting and retaining top talent. By investing in robust healthcare benefits, Phillips 66 aims to ensure long-term business success and resilience amid economic uncertainties.

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Phillips 66 employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Phillips 66 at 2331 citywest blvd Houston, TX 77042; or by calling them at 281-293-6600.

https://www.phillips66.com/documents/pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/rsu-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/rsu-plan-2023.pdf - Page 14 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/rsu-plan-2024.pdf - Page 17 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 23