As your financial advisor, I want to take a moment to address what many of you may be feeling as you watch the markets fluctuate—sometimes dramatically. While headlines may stir up uncertainty or anxiety, I want to offer some perspective, reassurance, and guidance.

Volatility is a natural part of investing. It can be unsettling, especially when it’s driven by headlines involving inflation, interest rates, geopolitical conflict, or economic slowdowns. But while the causes of market downturns may vary—from the tech bubble of the early 2000s, to the financial crisis of 2008, to the pandemic in 2020—the common thread is that markets have always recovered. And not just recovered, but gone on to reach new highs.

One of the most effective tools we use to navigate turbulent markets is diversification. By spreading investments across different asset classes, sectors, and regions, we reduce exposure to any one area experiencing stress. Diversification doesn’t prevent losses altogether, but it helps smooth the ride and manage risk, especially during volatile times.

Equally important is maintaining a longer-term perspective. When we build your investment plan, it’s designed with your goals in mind—retirement, education, legacy, or lifestyle. These goals don’t change with the news cycle, and neither should your overall strategy. Staying invested and sticking to the plan is often the best way to take advantage of market recoveries when they happen—because they often come faster and more forcefully than expected.

History has shown us time and again that downturns are temporary, while growth is permanent for those who remain patient and disciplined. It’s during these uncertain times that the value of a sound plan becomes clear.

If you have concerns or would like to revisit your investment strategy, I’m always here to talk. But know this: the markets have weathered wars, recessions, political crises, and pandemics. And each time, they’ve bounced back. With a well-diversified portfolio and a steady hand, so will we.