EXPERT OPINION (INVESTMENT): MONICA MAZUN

EXPERT OPINION | INVESTMENT

Monica Mazun | Monica.Mazun@RichardsonWealth.com 519-827-2903

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BY MONICA MAZUN

Navigating the markets has never been an easy feat, even in the most optimistic times. But when you have to contend with unprecedented macroeconomic challenges, and 24/7 media channels broadcasting click-bait headlines about economic forecasts, planning a course gets even more overwhelming.

We’ve been hearing all the buzz words for months: inflation, shrinkflation (less air and more ketchup chips in my bag, please), recession, volatile markets, and more. How do these affect the average investor? What would another interest rate hike mean? Have the markets finally hit bottom? The apparent chaos can be overwhelming, and even cause panic. You should always follow your gut about how to respond, but our advice is typically to not make rash decisions; to keep calm and carry on – but with a watchful eye.

Sound decision-making in stressful times comes down to what you’re looking for as an investor, and what you’re comfortable with. On the positive side, inflation already seems to have peaked and is slowly coming down. As interest rates go up, you can take advantage of higher GIC rates which are now providing decent risk-free returns - this can help bring you peace of mind concerning your portfolio. Or if you have a higher risk tolerance, investing in value stocks during a bear market can be a great opportunity. It's times like these when it makes the most sense to work with a trusted investment advisor with the experience, market insights, and resources to build a solid investment strategy with you and make sound recommendations when things get complicated. For example, using alternative investments to protect against the downside can really make a difference in a portfolio’s returns during trying times.

History has taught us that stock markets are cyclical. There will be highs, and there will be lows. Advisors can’t predict what the future holds but finding someone with a proven process to assist you in building a more bullet-proof strategy helps you remain confident that your investments are achieving what you want – in good times and in tougher times, too.

We can’t do much about that smaller bag of chips, though.

All material has been prepared by Monica Mazun, who is an Associate Investment Advisor with the Mactaggart Hryn Team at Richardson Wealth Limited. The opinions expressed in this report are the opinions of the author and readers should not assume they reflect the opinions or recommendations of Richardson Wealth Limited or its affiliates. Richardson Wealth Limited, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Richardson Wealth is a trademark of James Richardson & Sons Limited, used under license.

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