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LEARN MORE ABOUT: Thrift Savings Plans

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The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a retirement savings and investment plan for federal employees and members of the uniformed services. It was established in 1986 and is managed by the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB). The TSP offers various investment options, including a trader channel, which allows participants to actively manage their investments.

The trader channel in the TSP allows participants to make frequent trades with their investments, similar to a stock market trading account. This option is available for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to managing their retirement savings. It enables participants to allocate their investments between different funds and make changes based on market conditions or personal preference.

The trader channel offers six different TSP funds: the G Fund, F Fund, C Fund, S Fund, I Fund, and the L Funds. The G Fund is a government securities fund invested in short-term U.S. Treasury securities, making it the most stable investment option. The F Fund is a fixed-income index fund that invests in a diversified portfolio of investment-grade bonds. The C Fund is a common stock index fund that tracks the performance of the S&P 500 index. The S Fund is a small- and medium-capitalization stock index fund that tracks the performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Completion Total Stock Market Index. The I Fund is an international stock index fund that invests in non-U.S. stocks. The L Funds are lifecycle funds that automatically adjust the investment mix based on the participant’s targeted retirement date.

Participants in the trader channel can choose to allocate their investments across any combination of these funds. They can make changes as frequently as once per day, allowing for active management based on market conditions or personal investment strategies. Participants can also transfer existing balances in their TSP accounts to the trader channel, giving them the flexibility to choose how to allocate their investments.

While the trader channel offers participants the ability to actively manage their investments, it’s important to note that frequent trading can lead to transaction fees and potential tax consequences. Participants must be aware of these costs and consult with financial advisors if needed before making any significant changes to their investment allocations.

The trader channel in the TSP provides an option for participants who prefer a more active role in managing their retirement savings. It allows for flexibility, giving participants the ability to adjust their investments based on market conditions and personal preferences. However, participants should consider the potential costs and risks associated with frequent trading and consult with professionals to make informed decisions. Ultimately, the trader channel can be a valuable tool for those who wish to have more control over their TSP investments.