If you’re feeling uneasy about things right now, you’re not alone. I’m a little anxious too. Markets are volatile, headlines are unnerving, and the future can feel uncertain. It’s a lot. And yet, when my mind starts to spin, I find some clarity in history. We can learn a great deal from past market crises—what caused them, how investors responded, and the process of recovery that followed. In every case, whenever we thought, “This time is different,” we eventually made it through. From the Great Depression to the oil shocks of the ’70s, from 9/11 to the financial crisis, from COVID’s market freefall to today’s geopolitical uncertainty and policy whiplash, investors have faced fear, loss, and doubt time and time again. And still, historically, the long-term trajectory has been growth. In fact, through 13 recessions and 11 bear markets over the last 70 years, U.S. stocks have delivered average annual returns of about 8%.1 That doesn’t mean every portfolio follows the same path. And it doesn’t mean things aren’t painful in the short term. But history reminds us of two things: fear is temporary, and resilience is real. |
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History gives me hope, but I don’t want to oversimplify. Just because markets have always recovered doesn’t mean every investor experience is the same, or that every moment of volatility feels manageable while it’s happening. Yet, it is noteworthy that we don’t help our clients invest based on assumptions that everything will always go up. In fact, we specifically design strategies to include a variety of asset types—some intended to grow, some to preserve, some to help buffer against shocks—because real life is messy, and markets reflect that messiness. No portfolio is perfectly protected from short-term pain. But the goal isn’t perfection. It’s durability. The work we do with our clients around setting goals, clarifying priorities, and choosing the right mix of investments is a big part of what contributes to long-term resilience. If you’re feeling uneasy, I get it. These are tough times, and staying invested isn’t always comfortable. But reacting emotionally to short-term swings can often create long-term setbacks. History repeats that pattern, too. If you want to discuss your strategy or share what’s on your mind, I’m here. This is exactly the kind of moment we plan for. Sources: 1. Morningstar, 2025 [URL: https://www.morningstar.com/economy/what-weve-learned-150-years-stock-market-crashes]
Risk Disclosure: Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This material is for information purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information; no warranty, expressed or implied, is made regarding accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability, or usefulness of any information. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision. For illustrative use only. |