Mueller Industries Employees: Investing for Impact

Many Mueller Industries investors are looking to build a portfolio that reflects their socially responsible values while giving them the potential for solid returns. That’s where SRI Investing, Impact Investing, and ESG Investing may play a role.

In the past, some Mueller Industries investors regarded these investment strategies as too restrictive. But over time, improved evaluative data and competitive returns made these strategies more mainstream. Even though SRI, ESG investing and Impact Investing share many similarities, they differ in some fundamental ways. Read on to learn more.

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Investing

ESG Investing stands for environmental, social, and governance investing. The model assesses investments based on specific criteria, such as ethical business practices, environmental conservation, and local community impact. The popularity of ESG investing has grown: in the United States alone, there are more than 500 ESG mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) available. Just a decade ago, there were only 100 ESG funds.

SRI (Socially Responsible Investing)

SRI uses criteria from ESG investing to actively eliminate or select investments according to ethical guidelines. SRI investors may use ESG factors to apply negative or positive screens when choosing how to build their portfolio. For example, Mueller Industries investors may wish to allocate a portion of their portfolio to companies that contribute to charitable causes. In the U.S., more than $17 trillion is currently invested according to SRI strategies. This is an increase from the $12 trillion invested in SRIs by the end of 2017.

Impact Investing

Also known as thematic investing, impact investing differs from the two above. The main goal of impact investing is to secure a positive outcome regardless of profit. For example, an impact investor may use ESG criteria to find and invest in a company dedicated to the development of a cure for cancer no matter the outcome of that investment.

The biggest takeaway? There are plenty of choices to keep your investments aligned with your personal beliefs. No matter how you decide to structure your investments, don’t forget it's always a smart move to speak with your financial professional before making a major change.

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Investopedia.com, 2022

Investing in mutual funds is subject to risk and potential loss of principal. There is no assurance or certainty that any investment or strategy will be successful in meeting its objectives. Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the fund carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the funds. Contact the fund company directly or your financial professional to obtain a prospectus, which should be read carefully before investing or sending money.

Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) are subject to market and the risks of their underlying securities. Some ETFs may involve international risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risk unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility. ETFs that focus on a small universe of securities may be subject to more market volatility as well as the specific risks that accompany the sector, region, or group. An ETF’s trading price may be at a premium or discount to the net asset value of the underlying securities.

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USSIF.org, 2022

Asset allocation is an approach to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation does not guarantee against investment loss.

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

Name of Pension Plan: Mueller Industries does not appear to offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. They may offer other types of retirement benefits, but this specific information might not be publicly detailed. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Since Mueller Industries does not provide a traditional pension plan, there are no specific qualifications regarding years of service or age for such a plan. Pension Formula: Not applicable, as Mueller Industries does not offer a traditional pension plan. Name of 401(k) Plan: Mueller Industries offers a 401(k) plan, but specific details about the name of the plan are not typically available publicly. Eligibility for 401(k) Plan: Generally, employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan once they meet the service requirements outlined by the company. This often includes completing a probationary period or meeting specific employment duration criteria. 401(k) Plan Details: Contribution Matching: Details on matching contributions, if any, were not specifically available in the reviewed documents. Plan Terms: The specifics of the 401(k) plan, including vesting schedules and employer matching, would typically be detailed in the company's benefits handbook or employee manual.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Mueller Industries announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This included a significant reduction in workforce, primarily in their manufacturing divisions. The restructuring was driven by a need to adapt to changing market conditions and optimize operational efficiency. Company Benefit Changes: Alongside workforce reductions, Mueller Industries also revised their employee benefits program. This included changes to healthcare options and retirement benefits, reflecting broader trends in cost management and adjusting to economic pressures. The updates aimed to align the benefits structure with the company’s new operational strategy.

Mueller Industries grants stock options and RSUs to incentivize and retain employees. Stock options are linked to performance and tenure, while RSUs are targeted towards senior management. Mueller Industries uses these financial tools to align employee interests with company goals.

Healthcare Benefits Page: On Mueller Industries' official website, their health benefits page details various programs offered to employees. Key benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. They use terms like PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), and FSA (Flexible Spending Account). They offer a range of plans and provide information on cost-sharing, coverage details, and preventive care services.