Protecting Your Financial Future at PBUCC

What is happening?

As we move through 2025, the financial landscape has changed markedly. Initially, there were high hopes for economic growth driven by tax cuts and deregulation. However, the optimism started to fade from late February given the actions Trump Administration took since January 20, 2025, and the rhetoric on tariffs.

Nonetheless, the market largely underestimated the extent of the tariffs until the announcement on April 2, which President Trump has called “Liberation Day”. A steep sell-off occurred in the equity markets afterwards. The tariffs, particularly with such magnitude and broad base, have sparked fears of a global trade war, economic recession and even stagflation.

Looking ahead several scenarios could unfold. One possibility is that continued trade tensions and tariffs could lead to prolonged market volatility and slower economic growth. Alternatively, if negotiations lead to reduced trade barriers or a change in course by the Administration, we could see a stabilization and potential recovery in the markets. Additionally, the Federal Reserve’s actions in response to changing liquidity conditions and economic outlook could further influence market dynamics.

In times like these, it can be hard to predict what’s next, but it can help to remember that you are not alone. We are partners in this together working to preserve the long-term financial security of those engaged in the life of the church.

What is our team doing to protect your assets?

Our team is closely monitoring these developments and their potential effects on your retirement savings. We understand that this period of uncertainty can be concerning, but we are committed to managing your investments with care and diligence. By staying informed and proactive, we aim to navigate these challenges and safeguard your financial future.

As your partners in ministry, we began to proactively take measures aimed at safeguarding your funds since the beginning of the year.

For the Sustainable Balanced Fund (SBF), we optimized asset allocation in January by reducing stock exposure. Below 55% of the fund is in stocks and the rest in cash and bonds.

In the Equity Fund, we've also kept a good amount of cash as a cushion. We've invested less in U.S. stocks and more in international markets as well as hedge funds. Diversifying investments has helped in volatile markets.

In early March, we made the Bond Fund safer by reducing investments in riskier bonds and putting the money into safer, high-quality bonds. As of April 4, 2025, the Bond Fund is up 3.3%.

For our lifetime income Basic Annuity and Participating Annuity, our management partners have been focused on reducing risk since the last quarter of 2024. We will of course continue to monitor it and adjust as needed.

What should you do now?

We understand that the increased volatility in the financial markets can be stressful and scary. Retirement investments are meant to provide income stability in your later stage of life. Market selloffs and rebounds have happened over time, so a good rule of thumb is to try not to panic, and to consider where you are in your personal and professional life, which can help to shape your goals for protecting the income you will need in your senior years.

The Pension Boards team cares deeply about your financial security. We are here to listen to your concerns and provide you with adequate resources for managing your retirement investments.

If you wish to review your current investment allocation to make sure it is consistent with your time horizon, return needs, and risk tolerance, you can do this online via the Fidelity NetBenefits® platform that we provide to all members. Visit PBUCC.ORG > Member Login > Access Fidelity NetBenefits®. On NetBenefits®, go to Accounts & Benefits, then Retirement Savings.

If you would like to speak to a financial professional to gain a better understanding of the fund options we provide to all members through the UCC Lifetime Retirement Income Plan, you can contact the Fidelity Retirement Planner service by calling 800-642-6543, selecting option 6, then option 2, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you have other questions, concerns, or would like to understand more about the range of resources we provide to members of the UCC Lifetime Retirement Income Plan, your dedicated PBUCC team is available and ready to assist. Contact us at 1.800.642.6543.