'Hilton Grand Vacations employees should consider reevaluating their cash holdings as interest rates shift, and Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group, recommends maintaining a diversified portfolio that balances liquidity with long-term growth potential.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.
'Hilton Grand Vacations employees should consider reevaluating their cash holdings as interest rates shift, and Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group, recommends maintaining a diversified portfolio that balances liquidity with long-term growth potential.' — Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.
In this article, we will discuss:
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The shifting role of cash in a Hilton Grand Vacations employee's portfolio amid changing interest rates and inflation.
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Investment alternatives such as stocks and bonds that may offer higher returns compared to cash holdings.
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Strategies for maintaining a well-balanced portfolio that aligns with long-term financial objectives.
How Cash Fits in a Hilton Grand Vacations Employee's Portfolio.
Favorable interest rates have allowed core holdings in financial accounts to post attractive returns in recent years - and may prove a safe haven to the more volatile stock market. But a shift occurred in September 2024 as the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates, making these attractive cash balances less useful. And for Hilton Grand Vacations employees, that change is especially relevant with regard to ongoing inflation concerns - and how to rethink the role of cash in investment portfolios.
Recognizing the Function of Cash in a Diversified Portfolio.
A good investment mix would typically include cash, equities and bonds which support financial objectives by balancing risk and growth potential. For Hilton Grand Vacations employees, liquidity is important for emergency expenses but excess cash may slow long-term investment growth - especially at low interest rates.
The Impact of Inflation
Cash holdings present a risk beyond missed investment windows. Inflation saps the buying power of cash assets, forcing Hilton Grand Vacations employees into investment strategies designed to preserve and grow wealth. Even if inflation moderates, consumer prices are expected to remain high - another reminder of the need for strategic financial planning. In 2023, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 3.4%, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics said, highlighting the impact of inflation on cash holdings.
Trying Alternatives for Higher Returns.
And regardless of market timing, consistent stock investments - as measured by the S&P 500 (R) Index - outperformed static cash portfolios, as reported by Bloomberg Finance, L.P.
The Strategic Alternative: Bonds.
Bonds might be a good fit for someone accustomed to the regular income from money market funds but hoping for higher yields. Bonds offer regular interest payments plus capital appreciation for Hilton Grand Vacations employees. In a rising rate environment, bonds may offer gains above those of cash holdings.
Investors can choose from exchange-traded funds (ETFs), bond mutual funds and individual bonds that are all risky and potentially return different amounts of money. Hilton Grand Vacations employees can structure their bond investments to fit their financial objectives and tolerance for risk.
Maintaining Portfolio Balance
While stocks and bonds are essential investments, cash remains a necessity. The cycle of financial markets and the range of asset classes illustrate that it is critical that Hilton Grand Vacations employees have a diversified portfolio that reflects their financial goals and risk tolerance.
Moving economic conditions - including rising interest rates and persistent inflation - force Hilton Grand Vacations employees to rethink their cash position. Trying out different investments like stocks and bonds along with research-backed planning can help them construct a possible long-term financial foundation.
An emergency cash reserve remains a good strategy as retirement approaches. A 2021 study by AARP recommends retirees have a cash buffer of one to three years' worth of living expenses. This buffers against unexpected expenses and market swings and reduces the need to pull out of investment accounts in downturns. For Hilton Grand Vacations employees, this financial cushion can help with medical costs and other emergencies involving age.
Look for investments which allow for financial growth with low risk now! A mix of stocks and bonds could boost returns and buffer inflation.
A poor mix of cash, stocks and bonds is like going on a journey without supplies. So just as the sailor needs several provisions for weather and time at sea, so too does an investor need a mix of assets for economic shifts and life stages. The cash is fine for short-term needs and emergencies but long-term financial success requires growth-oriented assets such as stocks and stable income such as bonds to fund financial goals.
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- Corporate Employees: 8 Factors When Choosing a Mutual Fund
- Use of Escrow Accounts: Divorce
- Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
- Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
- 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
- How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
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- Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
- Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
- 401K, Social Security, Pension – How to Maximize Your Options
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- Worst Month of Layoffs In Over a Year!
- Corporate Employees: 8 Factors When Choosing a Mutual Fund
- Use of Escrow Accounts: Divorce
- Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
- Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
- 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
- How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
- Lump-Sum vs Annuity and Rising Interest Rates
- Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
- Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
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Sources:
1. Lake, Rebecca. '7 High-Return, Low-Risk Investments for Retirees.' U.S. News & World Report , Jan. 2025, https://money.usnews.com .
2. Munnell, Alicia H. 'How Does Inflation Impact Near Retirees and Retirees?' Center for Retirement Research at Boston College , June 2024, https://crr.bc.edu .
3. T. Rowe Price Investment Team. 'Retirement Savings by Age: What to Do with Your Portfolio in 2025.' T. Rowe Price , Dec. 2024, https://www.troweprice.com .
4. Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Team. 'Investing in Retirement: 5 Tips for Managing Your Portfolio.' Merrill Lynch , Mar. 2024, https://www.ml.com .
5. Schwab Center for Financial Research. 'How to Structure Your Retirement Portfolio.' Charles Schwab , Aug. 2023, https://www.schwab.com .
What is the 401(k) plan offered by Hilton Grand Vacations?
The 401(k) plan at Hilton Grand Vacations is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
Does Hilton Grand Vacations match contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Hilton Grand Vacations offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping to enhance your retirement savings.
When can I enroll in the Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan?
Employees at Hilton Grand Vacations can enroll in the 401(k) plan during the initial onboarding process or during the annual open enrollment period.
How much can I contribute to the Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan each year?
The contribution limits for the Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan are set by the IRS and can change annually. Employees should check the latest IRS guidelines for the current limits.
Can I change my contribution amount to the Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution amounts to the Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.
What investment options are available in the Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan?
The Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.
Is there a vesting schedule for the Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) company match?
Yes, Hilton Grand Vacations has a vesting schedule for the company match in the 401(k) plan, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.
Can I take a loan from my Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees may have the option to take a loan from their Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What happens to my Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan if I leave the company?
If you leave Hilton Grand Vacations, you can either cash out your 401(k), roll it over into another retirement account, or leave it in the Hilton Grand Vacations plan if you meet certain criteria.
How can I access my Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan account information?
Employees can access their Hilton Grand Vacations 401(k) plan account information online through the plan's designated website or mobile app.