What requirement must participants with over three years of service meet regarding employer stock?

Participants with over three years of service must diversify their investments out of employer stock due to the protection it offers against the volatility associated with holding a large portion of one’s retirement savings in any single stock. The diversification requirement is particularly important as it reduces the risk of significant financial loss if the company’s stock underperforms.

This rule encourages participants to spread their investments across a broader range of assets, which is beneficial for overall portfolio stability and growth potential. It also aligns with the principles of prudent investing, which suggest that individuals should not be unduly concentrated in their employer’s stock, considering it could result in a lack of diversification and increased risk during periods of market fluctuation.

The focus on diversification is reinforced by various regulatory guidelines that mandate employers to provide participants with options to minimize risk and protect their retirement savings. It promotes a strategy where participants can achieve a more balanced asset allocation, contributing to a healthier financial outlook as they approach retirement.