Volatility is part and parcel of investing so it’s important to put it into perspective and look at the full picture when thinking about your wealth, rather than focusing on day-to-day market swings.
If there was to be a single investing lesson that emerged from the events of the last two years, it is that we should learn to expect the unexpected. Funnily enough, having been through the 1990’s recession, Asian Melt Down, Tech Wreck and GFC (to mention a few), expecting the unexpected is part and parcel of investing. Equally, so is volatility.
There are several ways to measure volatility – the VIX index or as it is colloquially known the “index of fear” being perhaps the best empirical measure. But there is a simpler measure of market volatility that is much closer to home and that is when friends and family start calling to ask “what is happening to my super”. That is when market falls have got people’s attention.
And for the near term at least, we will probably continue to experience more market bumps and drops. For those approaching or already in retirement, accepting that market volatility is here to stay could possibly induce a few sleepless nights, especially for those who keep an ever-watchful eye on their investment portfolios. However, those approaching retirement or already in retirement have experienced many ups and downs over the last few decades and this is nothing new.
But while dramatic market losses can sting, it is important to keep a long-term perspective in order to participate in the recoveries that follow. Research shows that the average length of a bear market is 236 days while bull markets on average have lasted 852 days, leaving investors well compensated for the long-term risk they took on.
So, while a long term perspective is extremely important, so is context.
All global stock markets including Australia experienced a reversal of 2021’s roaring returns in having negative returns in 2022. But, if you were to zoom out and include other aspects of your investment portfolio – dividend payments for example, or your property value, then the overall picture is a little rosier. Dividends are particularly noteworthy during this volatile time because unlike back in 2020 when many investors had to tighten their belts or draw down on capital because pay-outs had been vastly reduced, most companies are still paying out some form of dividend. In this situation, the income element of share portfolios is still delivering steady returns for most investors – a particularly valuable point for investors with self-managed super funds who commonly have a strong yield tilt in their portfolios. Our experience shows that the largest enabler of long term outcomes is enhanced by the income you generate from your investments over time. This is part of the Moneyclip investment philosophy.
Also, while rising interest rates are front and centre of everyone’s minds right now, for those who own a home or have an investment property, now is a good time to remember that the property values have enjoyed strong gains during the worst of the pandemic in the last two years, far outstripping the interest rate increase aspect of the equation. Further, while landlords might be lamenting interest rate rises, according to a recent Domain report, every state in Australia is also experiencing its sharpest rental price growth in 13 years, with most rental increases keeping pace with interest rate rises.
So at times like these, remember to look at the full picture when thinking about your wealth. Your portfolio in its entirety includes your superannuation, your portfolio outside of super including shares, property and fixed income and cash. Viewed in widescreen mode, it’s likely that you’re still in positive territory despite the pull back in share market values.
These can be challenging times because when volatility is spiking the emotional response is to want do something – anything. Which is when being clear about your long-term investment goals and having an asset allocation in line with your risk tolerance can be the best antidote to help you be disciplined and stay the course.
At Moneyclip, we schedule regular reviews to assist you to understand more holistically how recent changes can affect your progress towards your financial goals, as well as making adjustments where needed to better support you.
Contact us today on 02 9299 2292 or myadviser@moneyclip.com.au if you would like to review your current portfolio or would like help in beginning your journey towards financial freedom.