For many of us, the recent market downturn really hit home when we saw the considerably reduced amount in our 401K statements. Some people lost as much as 40 to 50 percent, according to Juan Alcantar. head of the Retirement and Investment Services for STA Benefits, Ltd.
 Enduring losses of this type may not be necessary.  "Having a portion of your money in a fixed interest option can make a big difference," says Alcantar.  "Unfortunately, many people were caught off guard by significant losses and may have misinterpreted the risk in the financial markets.
 For example, if you invest $100,000, and you want to potentially preserve 80% of that in the event the market drops by half, you should have the majority in a fixed interest option, if available in your 401(k).
 "That way, if the market drops your portfolio may not drop by as much." he says.
 Alcantar acknowledges that generally, the greater the risk, the greater the reward. However, he says, as retirement draws closer, it's wise to put the greater share of your money in low-risk investments.
 There are exceptions. "I've known 20-year-olds who are unwilling to put any of their funds in the stock market. And that's fine. If you make more conservative investments, at least you'll be more likely to have what you put in."
 On the other hand, Alcantar says he's known people in their 60s who are willing to take excessive risks.
 "In that case, I would try to steer them toward more conservative investments. But it's their decision. It all depends on your risk-tolerance and time horizon."
 Before the most recent market downturn, Alcantar says, the financial professionals at STA Benefits, Ltd. were able to reallocate some investors' funds, helping to prevent the loss they might have had otherwise.
 The retirement and investment division of STA Benefits, Ltd. helps companies get the most from their 401K plan through a conservative, face-to-face educational approach. They visit with employees at their workplace to explain and review their plans and answer any questions they may have.
 "Whether it's a full day or a half day, we're there as long as you need us to be there. If it's a large company with many employees, we may come out every month; if it's a small company, I can get to everyone in a couple of visits a year. Employees always have the option of calling us directly."
 STA Benefits, Ltd. acts as a liaison between involved parties including the company, employees, third-party administrators and insurance carriers.
 "We grease the wheels between the parties to help make 401K plans work," Alcantar says. "In many cases, the company's human resource director, or whoever is acting as the benefits manager, is not an expert - they don't know the right questions to ask. Questions such as: Am I paying too much in fees? Are my investment choices appropriate?"
 STA Benefits, Ltd. provides ongoing and back office support for companies.
 Alcantar says. "We set up plans to accommodate the company's needs, we argue for the company when needed and help advocate for them."

STA Benefits, Ltd. is located at 6010 Hwy 191, Suite 210. For more information, call (432) 337-1131 or (800) 879-7265. You can visit their website at www.stabenefits.com.

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through NFP Securities, Inc. a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC and a Federally Registered Investment Advisor  (stabenefits,ltd.) is an affiliate of NFP Securities, Inc. and a subsidiary of  National Financial Partners Corp., the parent company of NFP Securities,  Inc.