Interest rates are a key driver of most financial assets. While most often referenced in relation to the bond market, rates are also a key input in traditional equity valuation models, which incorporate market interest rates to determine the appropriate rate to discount future cash flows. Interest rates are an essential element in bond pricing and the yield that investors require to own a particular fixed-income security. Since hitting an all-time low in 2020, interest rates increased in 2021 and have continued that climb higher thus far in 2022. This has put pressure on fixed incomes and certain areas of the equity market, which has led to stress in certain areas of the stock market, such as growth stocks, which can be sensitive to interest rate shocks. With that in mind, let’s examine why rates have been moving up, and whether this should be a cause for concern for Comfort Systems USA employees.
MORE AGGRESSIVE FEDERAL RESERVE
The Federal Reserve (Fed) has already raised interest rates by 75 basis points this year. A 25 basis point hike in March followed by a 50 basis point hike in May. The Fed is currently expected to hike rates by 50 basis points in both the June and July meetings and will continue to hike through the better part of 2022. With inflation running hot and the job market showing strength, the fact that the Fed is finally moving away from zero shows confidence in the health of the job market. But the speed with which interest rates are expected to go up underscores its concern about the soaring cost of living. Americans living in areas like California or New York will experience this policy shift through higher borrowing costs: No longer will it be insanely cheap to take out mortgages or car loans and this along with higher inflation may lead to less investment in the market and more spending on needs, which is a main reason for market volatility, and important for Comfort Systems USA employees and retirees to keep in mind.
INFLATION CONCERNS
Inflation is also a primary determinant of long-term interest rates. Rising inflation has the potential to eat away at fixed-income returns, so naturally, inflation expectations are a component of the yield that investors require to own fixed income. Put simply, inflation is a result of too much money chasing too few goods, and there are concerns that the increase in the level of money in circulation may lead to this. The extraordinary level of fiscal and monetary stimulus put in place to combat the economic damage of Coronavirus caused a significant increase in the M2 money supply. As a result, we are currently seeing this increase in the level of money in circulation translate to a pickup in consumer spending, but also elevated inflation.
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RISKS OF A RECESSION
Now that the pandemic has started to recede, the Fed has once again started to raise short-
term interest rates. This policy change has caused market volatility to spike for the three
major reasons to the right.
Today as the Fed begins to aggressively hike interest rates, market participants worry we may endure a period of high inflation alongside weakening economic growth — otherwise known as stagflation.
This environment is another example of why we believe in and suggest to our clients from Comfort Systems USA that staying diversified is the best way to insulate portfolios from being too exposed to one risk factor.
Economic Definitions
M2 Money Supply: The M2 Money Supply, also referred to as “M2” or “Money Stock,” measures the amount of currency in circulation. M2 includes M1 (physical cash and checkable deposits) as well as less liquid money, such as saving bank accounts.
What type of retirement plan does Comfort Systems USA offer to its employees?
Comfort Systems USA offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of Comfort Systems USA enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Comfort Systems USA can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form provided by the HR department or through the company’s benefits portal.
Does Comfort Systems USA match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Comfort Systems USA offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA?
The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA is determined by IRS guidelines, which may change annually.
When can employees at Comfort Systems USA start contributing to their 401(k) plan?
Employees at Comfort Systems USA can start contributing to their 401(k) plan after completing their eligibility period, typically within the first few months of employment.
Are there any fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA?
Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
Can employees of Comfort Systems USA take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, employees of Comfort Systems USA may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What investment options are available in the Comfort Systems USA 401(k) plan?
The Comfort Systems USA 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Comfort Systems USA 401(k) plan?
Employees at Comfort Systems USA can typically change their contribution amounts on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan guidelines.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Comfort Systems USA?
If an employee leaves Comfort Systems USA, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out, subject to tax implications.