Before we talk about markets or money, it’s worth acknowledging what’s behind the headlines recently. The events we’ve seen in the Middle East the past month have real human consequences. For some, this may feel very close to home and personal. It is to me. At the same time, these events have shaken markets. Since late-February, the headlines from the Persian Gulf just keep on coming.
The tone felt heavy. Things escalated quickly. Then, just as quickly, the story turned…
Same story, evolving quickly. Very different market reaction. And here’s the honest part. As I’m writing this, I don’t know how this will look by the time you actually get to read it. Things are moving that fast. But here’s what Ican say… Headlines change quickly. Your approach shouldn’t have to. It’s natural to feel like you need to respond when the story keeps shifting. New developments come in, markets react, and it can feel like staying on top of it all requires action. But that’s a tough game to win. Markets move on expectations, probabilities, and sometimes just a hint of news. Prices can swing before the full picture is clear, then reverse just as quickly. If your strategy changes every time the narrative changes, you’re not really investing. You’re reacting. And reacting to a fast-paced, moving target rarely leads to better outcomes. An intentional financial strategy is designed with weeks like this in mind. Not the calm ones. But rather the unpredictable ones. The ones that are hard to make sense of in real time. That strategy is built around what you can control:
Because it always does. Think about what we’ve seen just in the past few days. Markets moved sharply on a shift in tone, even though the broader situation is still unfolding. That’s not unusual. It’s how markets work. And it’s exactly why reacting to every headline can work against you. Some of the biggest market moves happen during the most uncertain moments, not after things feel settled. Even missing a few of the market’s best days can noticeably impact your long-term results.10 So instead of trying to keep up with every twist, it can help to come back to your strategy. Not because the headlines don’t matter. But because they don’t need to dictate every decision. Your goals haven’t changed this week. Your timeline likely hasn’t either. And a thoughtful investment approach should be built to carry you through periods like this. If you’re feeling unsettled, that’s completely normal. Weeks like this can shake confidence, even for experienced investors. That can be a good time to pause, ask questions, and make sure everything still lines up with where you’re headed. If you’d like to talk it through, I’m here. We can look at your strategy together and make sure it still fits. Because while the headlines may keep changing, having a clear approach can help you move forward with more confidence. |
Warmly, Daniel Ruben, MD, MPH, MBA (818) 483-6611
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P.S. What’s been on your mind as you’ve watched the headlines? I’d love to hear your thoughts. |
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. |