The stock market has seen its fair share of ups and downs throughout history. When it’s on an upward trend, everyone is happy – especially your finances! However, when a downturn emerges, many begin to panic.
While fluctuations in the market are a given, it can be difficult not to react emotionally when your money is on the line. Understanding market volatility is the best defense against rash decisions that could upend your long-term savings strategy.
Understanding Stock Market Fluctuations
The stock market will always experience a series of ebbs and flows. However, there may be times when it experiences steep drops and sharp rebounds. Some of the reasons behind these severe swings may be recession concerns, increasing inflation, labor market changes, Federal Reserve decisions, geopolitical tensions, and more. Oftentimes, the ways these factors are performing and interacting with one another can paint quite a blurry picture.
When economic data shows mixed signals, it’s difficult for investors to assess the economy’s state. These conflicting signals can lead to increased investor uncertainty and market volatility. With so many factors at play, it’s no wonder that the market is so unpredictable.
Knowing the Key Indicators
One of the most revealing indications of investor unease is the CBOE Volatility Index, commonly called the “Fear Gauge.” A spike in this index, which measures anticipated volatility in the stock market, often signals that investors are bracing for instability ahead. A sharp spike in the Fear Gauge indicates that investors are exceedingly unsure about the market’s future direction.
Other factors, like unemployment levels and company earnings, can also create sudden swings in the market. While some indicators are more apparent than others, it’s crucial not to act recklessly at the first sign of bad news.
What Does Market Volatility Mean for My Investments?
How could recent fluctuations and future changes impact your investment portfolio? The truth is that market volatility is an inherent part of investing. To help you manage uncertainty both now and in the future, here are some guiding principles to keep in mind:
- Avoid Impulsive Reactions:
Feeling anxious when the market takes a nosedive is natural, but maintaining composure is critical. Making hasty, knee-jerk reactions can do more harm than good. Selling off your investments in a panic could cause you to take substantial losses that might have been only temporary. As difficult as it may be, take some time to wait things out and see what happens. The market might recover sooner than you expect.
- Diversify Your Portfolio:
One of the most effective ways to reduce risk is diversification. By spreading your investments across different types of assets, you can reduce the impact of a downturn in any single sector.
- Transition to Conservative Investments:
As you near retirement, it is wise to transition more of your market dollars into conservative investments. These opportunities include Share Certificate Accounts (commonly called Certificates of Deposit), where your investment returns are guaranteed, and your funds are federally insured at a credit union or bank.
- Focus on Long-Term Goals:
While short-term swings can cause distress, it’s crucial to keep your long-term financial objectives in mind. If you’re investing for retirement or another long-term goal, these short-term dips are merely a tiny blip in the bigger picture. For many, retirement might be decades away, giving you ample time to recover any immediate losses and weather any short-term storms.
- Consider Professional Guidance:
If you’re unsure how to navigate the current market conditions, seek the advice of a professional financial advisor. They can provide additional insights and specialized strategies to protect and grow your investments.
What the Road Ahead Holds
While stock market volatility might seem alarming, it’s essential to maintain perspective. The market has experienced cycles of highs and lows throughout history. While there’s no surefire way to predict what will happen in the future, staying informed and sticking to sound investment principles can help you weather the storm. If you’re nearing retirement, consult your financial advisor to determine how to protect your nest egg from short-term fluctuations.
We’re Here to Help!
As you age and progress in your career, your savings can grow substantially. Stock market volatility can make even the most seasoned investor worrisome. While you can’t predict the market with pinpoint accuracy every time, there are steps you can take to protect your investments.
If you want a second opinion on your retirement plan or have questions about transitioning to more conservative investments, we’re here to help. You can schedule an appointment to speak with our financial advisor team or explore other savings options by calling 800-782-4899 or visiting any of our convenient branch locations.
Each individual’s financial situation is unique and readers are encouraged to contact the Credit Union when seeking financial advice on the products and services discussed. This article is for educational purposes only; the authors assume no legal responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the contents.