Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Ball Corporation Ball Corporation's healthcare coverage is primarily provided through Aetna, a well-established insurer known for a range of healthcare plans tailored to meet the diverse needs of employees. Brief Overview of Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, Ball Corporation employees should prepare for significant healthcare cost increases, with many anticipating premium hikes of over 60% in some states. This alarming trend is largely attributed to rising medical expenses, the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies, and aggressive actions from major insurers. Without congressional intervention to extend these vital subsidies, more than 22 million individuals could face an average increase of 75% in out-of-pocket costs, straining budgets and limiting access to essential healthcare services. It's crucial for employees to proactively plan for these developments to mitigate financial impacts in the coming year. Click here to learn more
For Ball Corporation employees approaching Retirement, rising Treasury yields and broader economic conditions drive mortgage rates - something to consider when making Retirement savings and housing decisions - says Michael Corgiat, a representative of the Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.
As Ball Corporation employees approach Retirement, understanding how inflation, Treasury yields and mortgage rates affect long-term Retirement planning is critical, says Brent Wolf, of the Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.
In this article we will discuss:
1. The effect of rising mortgage rates despite Federal Reserve actions.
2. What Treasury yields affect mortgage rates and borrowing costs.
3. Inflation and economic policies affect retirement planning for Ball Corporation employees.
But even as the Federal Reserve eased monetary conditions by cutting its benchmark rate by a quarter-point after a substantial half-point decrease in September, mortgage rates have shifted in the opposite direction in recent months. The 30-year fixed mortgage average jumped more than half a point to 6.79%, Freddie Mac reported. This upward trend is likely to continue, helped by rising 10-year Treasury yields - which affects financial planning for Ball Corporation employees.
That situation demonstrates an important economic principle: mortgage interest rates aren't directly controlled by Federal Reserve decisions but driven heavily by Treasury yield movements. All these fluctuations are related to broad economic indicators which are pointing to solid growth now. That means Treasury yields and mortgage rates remain high—a divergence from the Fed's goal of lowering borrowing costs in housing and automotive - an area Ball Corporation employees may want to monitor closely.
And the election of President Donald Trump has complicated market expectations. Anticipated Trump tax cuts that would increase the federal deficit also have pushed up borrowing interest rates. The interaction of monetary policy and economic outlook demonstrates the complex dynamics that shape borrowing costs that are relevant to retirement planning in the Ball Corporation workforce.
For those at Ball Corporation planning to retire, knowing how inflation affects fixed investments like Treasury bonds is critical. As inflation expectations rise, Treasury yields rise, which can raise mortgage rates. This affects retirees considering refinancing or home expansions. One 2023 Federal Reserve report said retirees are especially vulnerable to these economic shifts because fixed incomes may reduce purchasing power during inflationary periods.
Imagine the economy as a big ship on open water whose captain is the Federal Reserve who adjusts interest rates to manage conditions. But the course is shaped more by the captain's actions - it's determined by winds and currents, as measured here by Treasury yields and economic expectations. Though the captain slows to make the journey smoother, strong winds such as higher Treasury yields driven by growth forecasts and fiscal policies can whipsaw mortgage rates. This creates additional turbulence for passengers nearing their destination - like Ball Corporation employees nearing retirement.
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Sources:
1. Giovanetti, Erika. 'The Fed Cut Rates. Why Are Mortgage Rates Higher?' U.S. News & World Report , 18 Dec. 2024, https://money.usnews.com/loans/mortgages/articles/the-fed-has-been-cutting-rates-why-are-mortgage-rates-higher .
2. Karl, Sabrina. 'Here's What Markets Now Predict for 2025 Fed Rate Cuts—And What It Could Mean for Mortgage Rates.' Investopedia , 26 Feb. 2025, https://www.investopedia.com/heres-what-markets-now-predict-for-2025-fed-rate-cuts-and-what-it-could-mean-for-mortgage-rates-11686953 .
3. Rosen, Andrew. 'How Will Mortgage Rates Impact The Real Estate Market And Your Retirement Accounts?' Forbes , 5 May 2022, https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewrosen/2022/05/05/how-will-mortgage-rates-impact-the-real-estate-market-and-your-retirement-accounts .
4. Struthers, Mark. 'Navigating Mortgage Rates in Retirement Planning. Why Did Rates Go Up After The Fed Lowered Rates?' Sona Wealth Advisors , 7 Nov. 2024, https://www.sonawealthadvisors.com/the-economic-and-political-influence-on-mortgage-rates .
5. Michaud, Michael. 'Retiree Do's and Don'ts in a Rising-Rate Environment.' Morningstar , 15 May 2018, https://www.morningstar.com/retirement/retiree-dos-donts-rising-rate-environment .
What type of retirement plan does Ball Corporation offer to its employees?
Ball Corporation offers a 401(k) Savings Plan to its employees to help them save for retirement.
How does Ball Corporation match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Ball Corporation provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, typically matching a percentage of what employees contribute up to a certain limit.
Can employees at Ball Corporation choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?
Yes, employees at Ball Corporation can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions, allowing them to tailor their investment strategy.
What is the eligibility requirement for Ball Corporation employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?
Most employees at Ball Corporation are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically within their first year of employment.
Does Ball Corporation offer any educational resources for employees to learn about the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Ball Corporation provides educational resources and tools to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.
What is the maximum contribution limit for employees participating in Ball Corporation’s 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for employees in Ball Corporation’s 401(k) plan is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest limits for the current year.
Are there any fees associated with Ball Corporation's 401(k) plan?
Yes, Ball Corporation's 401(k) plan may have certain administrative fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Ball Corporation?
Yes, Ball Corporation allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What happens to employees' 401(k) savings if they leave Ball Corporation?
If employees leave Ball Corporation, they can roll over their 401(k) savings into another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Ball Corporation plan, depending on the plan’s rules.
Does Ball Corporation allow for after-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Ball Corporation may allow for after-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan, enabling employees to save additional funds for retirement.