Good afternoon,

The beginning of 2020 saw new highs in the U.S. stock market, and now we are seeing a pullback as investors react to headlines about the spread of the novel coronavirus and mixed economic data.

Nonetheless, it is important for investors to maintain perspective and discipline. While global markets are now negative for the first two months of the year, they are still positive on a year over year basis.

Economists and investors compare past episodes to current situations. The quick spread of the coronavirus makes this challenging, and we can still compare past market declines to this one.

Historically, short term market pullbacks are not uncommon. In the rare instances of a correction turning into a bear market, usually, recessions, extreme valuations in the market, or policy blunders by the Fed are to blame.

The correction status in US markets over recent weeks is normal. We may experience more volatility until the underlying situation normalizes, and while this may take weeks or months, markets eventually tend to recover.

We believe that well-diversified portfolios, including an appropriate allocation of bonds, built for the long term and in line with your goals will help you weather this period of volatility. Rather than focusing on day to day headlines, remain disciplined and invested according to your plan and investment objectives.

Please give us a call if you have anything you’d like to discuss.