The Minnesota Retirement Plan for Outside Directors (MOOD) is a specialized retirement plan available for individuals serving as outside directors of Minnesota-based companies. This plan is designed to provide financial security and retirement benefits for these directors who contribute their expertise, knowledge, and guidance to the companies they serve. To qualify for the MOOD, individuals must be elected or appointed as outside directors of a company in Minnesota. These directors are typically independent and do not have any other significant employment relationship with the company they serve. The plan allows them to accumulate retirement savings while serving on the board of directors. One of the key features of the MOOD is the option for companies to make contributions on behalf of their outside directors. These contributions may be made on a fixed basis or based on a percentage of the director's compensation. The company's contributions are tax-deductible, making the plan attractive for both directors and employers. To ensure flexibility, the MOOD offers different types of retirement plans within its framework. These plans include: 1. Defined Contribution Plans: This type of retirement plan enables directors to contribute a specific percentage or dollar amount of their compensation to the plan. The accumulated contributions, along with any investment earnings, build a retirement nest egg. Directors have control over their retirement savings and can choose from various investment options. 2. Defined Benefit Plans: Unlike defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans offer a predetermined retirement income based on a formula that considers factors such as the director's tenure and compensation. This type of plan provides a fixed income stream throughout retirement, ensuring stability and security for the director. 3. Hybrid Plans: A hybrid retirement plan combines elements of both defined contribution and defined benefit plans. It offers some degree of flexibility and customization while still providing the promise of a guaranteed retirement income for directors. The MOOD aims to provide retirement benefits that are competitive with other similar plans and attract experienced and qualified outside directors to serve on company boards. It is regulated by the state of Minnesota to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, safeguarding the retirement savings of the participating directors. Overall, the Minnesota Retirement Plan for Outside Directors offers an appealing solution for both outside directors and companies in Minnesota. It provides a range of retirement plan options, allowing directors to accumulate savings or receive a fixed income stream in their retirement. By participating in the MOOD, outside directors can secure their financial future while contributing to the long-term success of the companies they serve.