I'm sure you have tried your best to ignore what is happening in the war between Russia and Ukraine. Then, there are gas prices that are going up, along with other day-to-day prices. Then there is the stock market. What seemed like an easy way to make money in 2021 has now turned into a bunch of losses.
Of course, the stock market is the biggest loser of all. An S&P 500 index fund (a fund that mimics the market) was down year-to-date roughly -8% through February 28th. Further, some investors will think that they have bonds and that those are safe. A typical bond fund index is down roughly -3% year-to-date through February 28th.
Statements will be arriving shortly, and some investors might be shocked. Here is what to do:
Don't bury your head in the sand
This is what some investors do to avoid looking at bad news. It is important to understand how much risk you're taking, as well as your comfortability with it. Markets go up, then markets go down, and are driven by a catalyst. Today's catalyst is war and all these side effects with such a tragic event. As long as this is the case, there are big consequences for being wrong in your investing.
Consider your Plan B
Plan A is for a stock market that is going up, and Plan B is for a stock market that is going down. Most advisors will leave your investments sitting in a Plan A strategy, which can be dangerous for your retirement goals. There are a lot of ways to reduce risk in investing. A solid Plan B can offer a little comfort in concerning times. I have created a teaching video that will help increase your understanding of this type of investing. It applies whether you are in an IRA or a 401-k plan. It is all about managing risk in uncertain times. Check out this resource:
I also have several Plan B strategies that could be an option for you. For more information, email us at info@prudentsmoney.com.
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