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How MRC Global Employees Can Benefit from Estate Planning During Market Volatility

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'MRC Global employees facing market downturns can leverage strategic estate planning opportunities, such as gifting undervalued assets and using tools like GRATs and Roth IRAs, to mitigate taxes and pass on more wealth to heirs—turning market volatility into an advantage.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'MRC Global employees should view market downturns as an opportunity to reassess their estate planning strategies, using tools like GRATs and Roth IRA conversions to transfer more wealth while mitigating tax liabilities for future generations.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

  1. How market downturns can present estate planning opportunities.

  2. The strategic use of tools like GRATs and Roth IRA conversions.

  3. The importance of charitable giving in reducing taxable estates during volatile periods.

Estate planning is often seen as a challenging process, particularly during volatile market conditions. Making decisions with long-term impacts can be difficult when share prices are erratic and future market performance is uncertain. However, careful planning during these volatile periods can lead to better future returns and more efficient asset transfer to successors. While many focus on estate planning during market upswings, some of the most strategic decisions can be made when asset values are declining, particularly for MRC Global employees preparing for retirement.

Estate Planning and Volatility: A Strategic Advantage

Estate planning is often associated with market growth, focusing on transferring assets when prices are high. Yet, when assets are undervalued due to market downturns, significant opportunities often arise. The market's recovery after a sharp drop, like the one in April, shows how volatility can lead to wise decision-making. Future wealth transfers can be optimized by focusing on asset quantity instead of current value, as more shares can be passed on to heirs before gift-tax exemptions are exceeded, which can be an important strategy for MRC Global employees planning their estates.

The concept of moving assets during a market downturn proves to be more beneficial for estate planners than it may initially appear. When asset prices are low, more shares can be transferred before hitting the $19,000 annual federal gift-tax exemption threshold for 2025. This strategy allows heirs to benefit from future growth once the market recovers, providing a valuable option for those at MRC Global looking to optimize their estate planning during volatile times.

This approach is also useful for those aiming to stay under the $14 million per person lifetime federal estate tax exemption. For example, if a business was initially valued at $15 million but is now worth $14 million, a donor can place it in a trust. The tax-free transfer of future expansion to heirs keeps the business outside the donor's estate, a strategy that MRC Global employees could consider when planning for their family's future.

Changes to Gifting Exemptions Affecting Taxes

Though market downturns can provide estate planning benefits, it’s important to remember that estate planning laws are always changing. With Congress debating potential changes to gifting amounts, it’s essential to act while exemptions remain high. If the estate tax exemptions aren't renewed, the exemption may revert to around $6.8 million, adjusted for inflation. This shift could greatly impact wealth transfer plans, so it’s vital for MRC Global employees to take advantage of higher exemption levels while they are still in place.

Exploring Other Estate Planning Strategies

Grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs) are another option for individuals who have already used their lifetime exemption but still want to reduce wealth transfer taxes. These irrevocable trusts allow individuals to leave assets to their heirs while retaining annuity income for a period. GRATs help mitigate estate taxes on any asset appreciation during the trust's duration, offering an option for MRC Global employees looking to pass on their wealth in a tax-efficient way.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sets the annuity payout rate at 120% of the applicable federal mid-term rate, which is currently 5%. For beneficiaries to profit from additional value, the asset's growth must exceed this hurdle rate. If the asset's growth surpasses this rate, the remaining balance in the trust is distributed to the heirs tax free. MRC Global employees considering this strategy can potentially avoid estate taxes and preserve their wealth from future tax burdens.

Although current interest rates aren't exceptionally low, Dos Santos notes that using undervalued assets in a GRAT may still lead to favorable outcomes. By leveraging lower asset prices, individuals can establish GRATs with a higher chance of surpassing the hurdle rate when the market rebounds, a strategy that could be beneficial for MRC Global employees who want to plan ahead.

A Simpler Approach: Switching to a Roth IRA

Not all estate planning strategies need to be complicated. Sometimes, simpler methods provide significant tax advantages. For instance, a 90-year-old MRC Global employee switched from a $5 million traditional IRA to a Roth IRA during a period of market decline. The client reduced the taxable estate by paying the conversion taxes upfront, and now her son will receive the entire Roth IRA tax-free, along with any future gains.

Dos Santos believes this is a smart strategy, especially for seniors concerned about their taxable estates. By reducing the size of the estate, the Roth IRA allows its full value to be passed on tax-free to future generations, making it a great option for MRC Global employees planning for their heirs.

The Importance of Thoughtful Estate Planning Decisions

Estate planning should be done with care, especially when using irrevocable trusts like GRATs. Once assets are placed in these trusts, they cannot be withdrawn, so individuals must carefully consider their choices. Nevertheless, strategic estate planning presents unique opportunities to pass on more wealth to heirs without incurring unnecessary taxes, particularly during market volatility. MRC Global employees can make the most of these opportunities by strategically planning their estate transfers.

For those looking to efficiently transfer wealth and reduce their taxable estate, current market conditions may present opportunities. Market downturns can provide a tactical advantage, whether through Roth IRA conversions, using the federal estate tax exemption, or establishing GRATs. By focusing on the number of shares rather than current asset values, individuals can position themselves to realize long-term benefits and enable their heirs to inherit the full value of their transferred assets.

In conclusion, volatility is often viewed as a threat to financial stability, but it can actually be an asset when approached strategically. By leveraging low asset values during market downturns, MRC Global employees can potentially increase future returns and build a better future for their heirs.

Tax Benefits of Charitable Giving in Estate Planning

When considering estate planning during volatile market periods, charitable giving offers additional tax benefits. By donating depreciating assets such as stocks or real estate directly to a charity, individuals can reduce their taxable estate and avoid paying capital gains tax on appreciated assets. This tactic not only reduces estate taxes but also allows individuals to give back.

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Sources:

1. Fuscaldo, Donna.  'Markets Are Down: Here's How Your Estate Can Benefit.'  Kiplinger , 15 Mar. 2025,  www.kiplinger.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

2. Chmielewski, Paul.  'Estate Planning During Times of Market Volatility.'  Cerity Partners , 25 Mar. 2025,  www.ceritypartners.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

3. Kiplinger Staff.  'Eight Ways to Financially Plan Your Way Through Challenging Times.'  Kiplinger , 24 May 2025,  www.kiplinger.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

4. Kotlikoff, Laurence.  'This Move Can Save You Tons on Taxes in Retirement. It's Best to Go Big.'  Barron's , 25 May 2025,  www.barrons.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

5. Branton, Steve.  'How Sequence of Returns Risk Could Affect Your Retirement—And What HNW Investors Should Do.'  Investopedia , 25 May 2025,  www.investopedia.com . Accessed 26 May 2025.

What type of retirement plan does MRC Global offer to its employees?

MRC Global offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees participate in MRC Global's 401(k) plan?

Employees can participate in MRC Global's 401(k) plan by enrolling during the open enrollment period or when they first become eligible.

Does MRC Global match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, MRC Global provides a matching contribution to employee contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for MRC Global's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for MRC Global's 401(k) plan is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest guidelines.

Are there any eligibility requirements to join MRC Global's 401(k) plan?

Yes, MRC Global has specific eligibility requirements, which typically include age and length of service with the company.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at MRC Global?

Yes, MRC Global allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

How can employees access their 401(k) account information at MRC Global?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the designated online portal provided by MRC Global's plan administrator.

What investment options are available in MRC Global's 401(k) plan?

MRC Global's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

Does MRC Global allow for Roth 401(k) contributions?

Yes, MRC Global offers the option for employees to make Roth 401(k) contributions, allowing after-tax savings.

What happens to my 401(k) funds if I leave MRC Global?

If you leave MRC Global, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) funds to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the plan, subject to certain conditions.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Employee Pension Plan Details: Plan Name: MRC Global does not appear to offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Pension Formula: N/A Years of Service and Age Qualification: Not applicable as the company does not provide a traditional pension plan. 401(k) Plan Details: Plan Name: MRC Global 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Generally, employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a certain period of service, typically 30 days or as specified by the plan documents. Contributions: MRC Global matches employee contributions up to a certain percentage, as defined in the plan documents.
Layoffs and Restructuring: Flipper Inc. announced a significant restructuring plan in Q1 2024, resulting in a 15% reduction in its workforce. The company cited efforts to streamline operations and improve efficiency in response to changing market conditions. Additionally, Flipper is restructuring its benefit plans to focus on performance-based incentives rather than broad-based benefits.
Stock Options and RSUs: MRC Global offers stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to eligible employees. Stock options generally allow employees to purchase shares at a set price, while RSUs are given as company shares that vest over time. Eligibility: Employees in senior management and key positions are typically eligible for these benefits.
Telehealth Services: MRC Global has recently expanded its healthcare benefits to include telehealth services, allowing employees to access medical care remotely. Mental Health Support: The company has increased its focus on mental health by enhancing their Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and offering more resources for mental wellness. Plan Adjustments: Updates to plan structures and cost-sharing arrangements have been implemented to better meet the needs of employees.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for MRC Global at , ; or by calling them at .

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