Coping with a Volatile Market

The fluctuating stock market and uncertain economy are sources of concern for many investors, but particularly for those in or near retirement. Falling portfolio values have left many retirees wondering what they can do to safeguard their savings. Set panic aside and take these steps to survive the downturn.

Change Your Withdrawal Rate

During a good market run, you may have chosen a higher withdrawal rate from your retirement accounts than you needed for living expenses. Determine how much of your monthly expenses are covered by guaranteed sources of income, such as Social Security, annuities, and a pension. If these sources cover most of your living expenses, consider reducing the amount you’re withdrawing from your investment accounts. A lower rate may keep more of your assets poised to benefit from a market upturn.

Create an Income Stream

Holding dividend-paying stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in your portfolio may provide income that you can use to supplement other guaranteed sources of income. Purchasing municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and certificates of deposit (CDs) can also provide you with income in the form of interest payments.

Purchase an Annuity

If you have sufficient funds, consider using a portion of the assets in your portfolio to purchase an annuity.* Fixed index annuities earn interest based on the performance of a specific market index, such as the S&P 500. A fixed index annuity won’t lose principal and should gain in value during a market upswing.

Work Part-time

You may be able to turn hobbies and interests into a second career after retirement. Performing work you’re passionate about can help you stay active and bring in some extra cash. Another benefit: You’ll develop a network of people who share your interests.

Rely on Your Financial Pro

Your financial professional is a great resource to help you develop a plan for maximizing your retirement income. Once you’re retired, taking an active money management approach may offer benefits over a buy-and-hold strategy, especially during market volatility. Having someone who will monitor your portfolio and make decisions based on what the markets are currently doing can be invaluable.

*Fixed annuity contracts guarantee a minimum credited interest. For immediate fixed annuity contracts, annuitants receive a fixed income stream based, in part, on the interest rate guarantee at the time of purchase. For fixed deferred annuity contracts, the insurer credits a fixed interest rate to contributions in the accumulation phase and pays a fixed income payment when annuitized. Annuity products are not FDIC-insured, and their guarantees are backed solely by the claims-paying ability of their issuing life insurance company.