Understanding market volatility

Market volatility

Investment market conditions have been difficult in recent times, impacting returns on all investments.

Our investment team are working hard to manage this volatility. We wanted you to know how they take market volatility into consideration when managing your investment. Here are some things to consider when understanding market volatility.

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Understanding market volatility

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To understand market volatility, let's first discuss the concept of investing. Different to a savings account at a bank, investing involves the purchase of assets with the intention that their value increases over time. Triggers such as market changes, economic factors like COVID and the GFC and inflation trends can all cause fluctuations in your investments. However, it's important to remember that while the fluctuations affect the value of your investment, periods of volatility are a normal part of investment. That over time stability will return within the market.

There's many ways to manage the up and down activity of your investments. But to start, here are four key things to remember when you're concerned about market volatility and your investments. One, don't panic sell. It's not unusual to be concerned by periods of market instability. It can be scary to see large or even small losses on paper, but it's helpful to remember that market volatility is a typical part of investing. And the companies you invest in will respond to a crisis. Two, remember, your long-term plan. Is your investing timeframe and goal still the same? A well-balanced, diversified portfolio will be constructed with potential rises and falls in the market in mind. However, if you need access to your funds soon, investing in volatile assets might not be your best option. But for medium to long-term goals, volatility is usually part of the journey to significant growth.

Three, diversify. Having all your eggs in one basket may put you at risk when the market dips, so it's important to consider diversifying your investments. Four, consider market volatility and opportunity. Market drops can also be capitalized on. Buying stocks when they are low can be a valuable investment opportunity.

If you'd like more information, our Wealth Concierge team can give you complimentary general advice or refer you to a financial planner for personal advice. To get in touch, make an online inquiry through our website or drop in and see us at your local Bendigo Bank branch.

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Market volatility explained

It's important to remember that periods of volatility are normal and that over time, stability within the market returns. Whilst a volatile market can be unsettling and increase your investment risk, it can also present investment opportunities.

History has shown that markets usually recover from downturns and it’s during periods of recovery, investment opportunities arise. By taking advantage of the lower price point of assets during a market downturn, investors with well-managed investments (including super) can take advantage of volatility.

Market volatility is not as scary as you might think; understanding and planning for volatility can help you prepare for the long-term.

Planning for volatility

Some facts to keep in mind during a market downturn:

• If your investment includes superannuation, remember super is a long-term investment and can generally only be accessed when you retire. For many people, this means there should be enough time for your super to recover from short-term movements.
• Revisit your investment strategy to remind yourself of your goals and objectives, including your timeframe for investing and your intent for the funds. If there has been no change to your goals and objectives, your investment option may remain suitable. However, if you are nearing retirement, your investment timeframe and/or your personal circumstances are changing, you may need to consider reviewing your investment strategy.
• Higher returns do come with some risk. Ensure you understand how much risk you are willing to take. It’s important to put the current market movements in the context of your long-term investment objectives.
• Market volatility is inevitable. It’s the nature of markets to move up and down over the short term. Given the difficulty in timing market reactions to global events and uncertainty, the best approach for most investors is to stick to an appropriate long term investment strategy and ignore short term fluctuations.

How has your investment been performing over the long term?

To see how your Sandhurst investment options have been performing over the long-term, visit the performance comparison table.

Sandhurst Trustees have a team of highly experienced investment managers who continuously monitor each portfolio and the economic outlook. The investment team are trained to deal with stressed market events, with many of them having worked through the Global Financial Crisis and COVID-19 pandemic.

Additional information to consider:

What happens if I do nothing?

• Your investment value, as it always has, will fluctuate according to market movements.
• As the volatility in the market continues, you may see the value of your investment fluctuate in the short term.

What happens if I switch to cash and/or withdraw my investment?

• It will take time for your request to be processed, it may not happen immediately.
• You may risk locking in a loss by selling your investment at lower prices.
• Furthermore, you may miss the market upturn when investment markets regain confidence.

If you have any questions, email WealthConcierge@bendigoadelaide.com.au or complete an enquiry form and we will get in touch.

For more helpful articles, visit the Education HUB.