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Staying on Track When Markets Feel Uncertain
Geopolitical developments, economic policy changes, inflation data and interest rate shifts regularly influence the markets. While recent headlines may feel unsettling, market volatility is not unusual— and uncertainty has always been part of investing. What often matters most during these periods is not reacting to the news itself, but focusing on what you can control and ensuring that your financial plan continues to support your long term goals.
Whether you’ re early in your career, approaching retirement, or already drawing income from your portfolio, periods of market volatility can serve as a useful reminder to revisit your strategy and confirm that it still aligns with your needs, priorities and comfort level with risk.
If you’ re decades from retirement
Market swings can feel uncomfortable, but they also provide an opportunity to reassess your perspective on risk. Investing always involves some degree of uncertainty, and how you react emotionally when markets move up or down can offer insight into whether your current portfolio still fits your risk tolerance. Taking time to reflect on that response can help ensure that your strategy is appropriate for your circumstances.
With a longer time horizon, short term market fluctuations often become less meaningful. Historically, markets have recovered from downturns over time, and what feels significant today may ultimately appear as a temporary setback in hindsight. Consistent investing, such as dollar cost averaging, can also help turn volatility into an advantage by spreading investments over time rather than trying to time the market.
If you’ re nearing retirement
As retirement approaches, diversification becomes increasingly important. Different asset classes and investment types often respond differently to economic conditions, and a broadly diversified portfolio can help manage risk during periods of volatility. Reviewing your allocation across stocks, bonds, cash and other investment vehicles can help ensure that your portfolio reflects both your income needs and your comfort with market movement.
It’ s also wise to consider how your investments are positioned for your upcoming expenses. Funds you expect to use in the early years of retirement may benefit from being invested more conservatively, while assets with a longer time horizon can remain focused on growth and keeping pace with inflation. Striking the right balance between protection and continued growth is key as you transition toward retirement.
If you’ re already retired
Market volatility can feel especially personal once you’ re relying on your savings for income. Reviewing your withdrawal strategy during uncertain markets can help protect your long term financial security. If your portfolio
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While equities may still play a role during a retirement that could last several decades, preserving your savings base is critical. Evaluating your stock exposure within the context of your overall financial plan can help make sure you’ re not taking unnecessary risk while still allowing your portfolio the potential to grow over the long term.
Regardless of where you are in your financial journey, market movement provides an opportunity to step back and compare your investment strategy to your goals. Are you still on track? Even if the answer feels uncertain, there are steps you can take to regain clarity and confidence. Working with a financial advisor can help you stay focused, adapt to changing conditions, and move forward with a plan designed to support your financial goals— even when the markets feel unpredictable.
Jonathan D. Martin is a financial advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Bethel Park. He specializes in financial planning and asset management strategies. Contact Jonathan’ s office at 412.831.6240 ext. 202, located at 88 Fort Couch Road, Suite 210, Pittsburgh, PA 15241, or visit his website at ameripriseadvisors. com / jonathan. d. martin. Jonathan is licensed / registered to do business with U. S. residents only in the states of PA, AL, MD, TX, OH, WV, AZ, CA, FL, IL, IN, NC, NJ, SC and VA.
Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation.
Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against loss. Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results.
Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.
Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2026 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
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