Long-term Investing and Market Fluctuations

With today's stock market fluctuations, many investors may be concerned about the effects of short-term ups and downs on their savings. It is important to remember the value of investing for the long term — it's time in the market, rather than timing the market, that has paid off for many investors over time.

Investing and maintaining a balanced portfolio that is appropriate for your goals over the long term can allow you to benefit from longer-term market strengths and avoid the risks of attempting to time market changes. Even as the values of some stocks may change suddenly at times, it is a good idea to carefully consider your overall portfolio and how it relates to your goals before making any changes.

The following article may help you learn about putting market volatility in perspective and focusing on your long-term goals:

• Financial Stability and Volatility in Today's Market: Putting it All in Perspective
• Keeping a Long-Term Focus Can Help Returns

You can also review the following planning articles and resources to help you determine if your portfolio is on track with your retirement goals:

• Guard Your Investment with Diversification
• Reduction of Risk Over Time
• Investing Dos and Don'ts

Even if you're near or in retirement, a well-planned investment strategy can help you stay on track. Visit our Reaching Your Dreams retiree guide for more information about managing investments during retirement.

If you do find that current economic conditions are affecting your financial situation, a number of resources exist to help you address concerns from higher household expenses to debt management. For tips on working with your lenders and information on organizations that can provide assistance, read our Tap Into Free Financial Resources article.

You may also find it helpful to register to receive our Market View Mail every week. Sent by e-mail every Friday, the Market View Mail includes a summary of the markets for the week, a brief explanation of a different Economic Indicator each week and our Chart of the Week providing interesting insight into different areas of investing.