Market Volatility and Your Retirement Account

Between news at home and abroad affecting the financial markets, investing for your future may feel like a rollercoaster ride. The good news is that having a diverse portfolio and staying invested over the long term can help your portfolio weather these uncertain times.* As you focus on safeguarding your financial future, here are a few tips to consider when navigating these fluctuations in the financial markets.

Make a plan.

An important first step is to ensure you have a diversified portfolio spread across stocks (also known as equities) and bonds, and even cash equivalents. Commit to reviewing the plan at least annually to make sure your asset allocation continues to reflect your age, risk tolerance, expected retirement date and any major lifestyle shifts. This will help you to withstand ups and downs in the market in the short term, while keeping your retirement savings on track in the long term.

Focus on the long term.

While it might be tempting to shift your asset allocation to a more conservative mix as market volatility increases, nobody can predict when markets will reverse course. By trying to time the stock market to avoid potential losses, you run the risk of hurting your portfolio’s long-term performance and missing out on the chance for your savings to grow and benefit when the market recovers.

Keep up your contributions.

Reducing your regular retirement contributions during periods of volatility may also seem like a good way to protect your portfolio, but it can have the opposite effect. Not only will you save less, your earnings will not have the opportunity to compound as much over time. Maintaining consistent contributions through market ups and downs can help your retirement savings continue to grow over time.

If you have questions about your retirement savings account or want to learn more about saving for your future, please contact your local Mutual of America representative.

*Diversification does not guarantee investment returns or elimination of the risk of loss.

Mutual of America’s group and individual retirement products that are variable annuity contracts are suitable for long-term investing, particularly for retirement savings. The value of a variable annuity contract will fluctuate depending on the performance of the Separate Account investment options you choose. Upon redemption, you could receive more or less than the principal amount invested. A variable annuity contract provides no additional tax-deferred treatment of benefits beyond the treatment provided to any qualified retirement plan or IRA by applicable tax law. You should consider a variable annuity contract’s other features before making a decision.