ATRS Investments
Global stock markets are experiencing significant volatility due to concerns over the circumstances in Europe. While markets have shown resiliency, it is possible that market volatility could continue.
The ATRS investment portfolio also experienced recent volatility with the global stock markets. However, it is important to note that the ATRS portfolio is well diversified across multiple asset classes and designed to weather stock market volatility.
As the latest crisis continues to unfold, ATRS is mindful of the volatility within the markets and is in communication with various market participants to evaluate developments. It is likely that until there is more clarity, there will be more volatile times ahead. However, the primary mission and focus of ATRS is to remain actuarially sound and pay member benefits by investing ATRS assets in a manner to earn the 7.25% actuarial assumed rate of return over a long-term horizon. ATRS is working with the ATRS custodial bank and ATRS investment consultants to closely monitor the evolving situation and the ATRS Board is ready to make any adjustments as needed.
We want to emphasize to all our members that your ATRS benefits are secure. ATRS is a long-term investor and the ATRS Board has structured a well-diversified investment portfolio with the ability to withstand market volatility. The ATRS Board remains committed to managing the System’s assets in a prudent and fiduciary manner that will ensure the viability of your pension. The ATRS Board makes decisions in terms of decades, not days, weeks, or months.
ATRS Board of Trustees Election
As a reminder, ATRS is conducting an election for the following two (2) positions on the ATRS Board of Trustees: Position No.1 (Certified Member Trustee – 1st Congressional District, Requires State Licensure); and Position No. 9 (Retiree Trustee). As a member of ATRS, this is your chance to elect a representative on the governing Board of Trustees. The elected trustees will take office on July 1, 2022 to fulfill a six (6) year term ending June 30, 2028.
Election ballots will be mailed to eligible voters on March 15, 2022.
Deadline for ballots to be returned is April 15, 2022.
Stay in Touch with ATRS and View YOUR Account Information
The ATRS website allows members to have direct access to specific member account information. Now, approximately 27,600 members have direct account access to individualized account information. Here is the link to the instructions to sign up: www.artrs.gov/registration.
You can also sign up to obtain these executive director updates through your private email address. Updates are made throughout the year such as during retirement season and other times when information needs to be shared. Now, over 29,200 people have signed up to receive this executive director update by direct email delivery. It is always a great pleasure for ATRS staff to learn of more ways to provide information to ATRS members, employers, beneficiaries, government officials, and the public. The ATRS Board is committed to providing a system that is member friendly and transparent. Remember that ATRS is here to serve you.
Best regards,
Clint Rhoden
Executive Director ATRS
Office: 501-588-4367
Mobile: 501-291-1623
clintr@artrs.gov