Have a Plan: What to Do When Markets Get Volatile
- Heather Asteriou
- Apr 29
- 2 min read
Market volatility can feel unsettling—especially when you see your hard-earned retirement savings swing up and down unexpectedly. But here's the good news: with a clear action plan, you can confidently navigate volatile markets without panic or worry. Let's create a strategy that keeps you calm, confident, and focused on your long-term retirement goals.
Why Having a Volatility Plan Matters
When markets fluctuate dramatically, it's natural to feel anxious or unsure. Having a clear action plan in place before volatility strikes can help you stay calm, make better decisions, and protect your retirement savings. Your plan acts like a financial seatbelt—keeping you safe, secure, and confident during turbulent financial times.
Understanding Market Volatility
Market volatility refers to the short-term ups and downs of investment markets. These swings can happen for many reasons, including economic news, geopolitical events, or global uncertainties.
While volatility feels uncomfortable in the short term, remember:
It’s typically short-lived.
Staying calm and avoiding panic-driven decisions is crucial.
Markets historically recover and grow over the long term.
Your Simple Volatility Action Plan
Follow these clear, stress-free steps whenever you face market volatility:
1. Stay Calm & Evaluate
Take a breath. Remind yourself retirement investing is a marathon, not a sprint.
Avoid impulsive decisions based on fear or uncertainty.
2. Review Your Asset Allocation
Log into your Fidelity or TIAA retirement account.
Ensure your asset allocation (stocks vs bonds) aligns with your long-term goals.
Consider rebalancing if your current allocation is significantly off-track (see our easy rebalancing guide here).
3. Revisit Your Risk Level
If you're close to retirement, consider slightly adjusting your portfolio to more conservative investments.
If retirement is still far off, consider whether volatility presents buying opportunities.
Mistakes to Avoid During Market Volatility
Be careful to avoid these common pitfalls:
Panicking and selling investments: Selling during downturns locks in your losses.
Ignoring your portfolio completely: Stay informed without obsessing. Check your allocation annually or after significant market shifts.
Letting emotions guide decisions: Trust your plan—not your emotions.
💡 Pro Tip:
Create a written volatility plan and revisit it each year. When markets swing, you'll have a clear, calming guide ready to help you stay on track. Market volatility can feel intimidating, but your university retirement portfolio can withstand fluctuations with the right strategy.
Need Help or More Guidance?
This blog is part of Provizr’s Annual Tune-Up series, designed specifically to help university employees confidently manage their Fidelity or TIAA retirement accounts.
Ready to build a comprehensive action plan?
At Provizr, we’re always here to support you through every market situation—keeping your retirement on track and your mind at ease. You've got this, and we've got your back!
