_________ have been eliminated by many companies in recent years as a way to cut costs.

Pensions have been eliminated by many companies in recent years as a strategy to manage expenses more effectively. This shift has been driven by various factors, including the rising costs of maintaining defined benefit plans and the unpredictable nature of investment returns which pose financial risks to employers.

Furthermore, as the labor market evolves, companies are increasingly opting for defined contribution plans, like 401(k) programs, which place the burden of saving for retirement on employees rather than the employer. This transition allows employers to have more predictable financial obligations, as they do not need to guarantee a specific benefit at retirement.

In contrast, the other options listed, such as stock options and individual retirement accounts, continue to exist in various forms, and while some companies may adjust their benefits packages, they have not experienced the same widespread elimination as pensions. Thus, the trend of moving away from traditional pension plans reflects a significant change in corporate financial management strategies aimed at control over long-term liabilities.