October 29, 2024

Why This Time Isn’t Different

When uncertainty arises, a common phrase from investors tends to be repeated: “This time is different.” Is it?


When investors start to worry about the direction of the market, they often consider significantly reducing their stock allocation. Historically, 29% of calendar quarters have been negative for the S&P 500, making short-term market declines a reasonable concern. However, despite periodic downturns — including the 2008-2009 financial crisis, the early stages of COVID-19 in 2020, and various election years — stocks have consistently outperformed cash over the long run. While some investors may believe “this time is different,” the reality is that corporate earnings tend to grow, innovation persists, and the market delivers strong long-term returns. If you have questions about making changes to your portfolio, speak to your financial advisor.

If you have any questions, please drop us a note.

For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third-party data, which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third-party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Indices are not available for direct investment. Their performance does not reflect the expenses associated with the management of an actual portfolio nor do indices represent results of actual trading. Information from sources deemed reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Performance is historical and does not guarantee future results. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this article. Please be advised that Buckingham only shares video and content through our website, Facebook, LinkedIn page, and other official sources. We do not post investment advice on WhatsApp, Telegram, other interactive applications, or other similar platforms. Rather, Buckingham provides investment advice only through individualized interactions. R-24-7847.

About the Author

Kevin Grogan

Chief Investment Officer

As Chief Investment Officer for Buckingham Wealth Partners, Kevin conducts investment research and writes articles on a wide range of topics, including retirement planning and investment policy. Kevin co-authored "The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need for the Right Financial Plan" with Larry Swedroe and Tiya Lim. This step-by-step handbook focuses on the art of investing by providing investors with information they can use to build a tailor-made investment strategy. Kevin holds an MBA from Saint Louis University and a bachelor’s of science in finance from Missouri State University in Springfield.

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