The first half of the year is a reminder that market volatility is often triggered by external shocks with broad economic implications. Recent geopolitical developments have shaped expectations for growth, inflation and interest‑rate policy, contributing to market pullbacks and sharper day‑to‑day swings.

While market volatility in 2026 increased risk and dominated headlines, history suggests that periods of uncertainty have tended to be temporary, often creating attractive opportunities for disciplined long-term investors.

In environments like these, maintaining perspective is especially important. With that foundation in mind, here are a few steps investors can consider to help navigate market volatility with greater confidence.

Avoid emotional investing

Market volatility is a normal part of investing, so it’s important to maintain a long‑term perspective and avoid making decisions driven by short‑term emotions.

Too often, our emotions can be the biggest barrier to our investment success. In these situations, it’s important to take a time-out and remember why you’re investing — your retirement, your child’s education, your legacy. A short-term market decline doesn’t change these long-term goals. Avoid abandoning the strategy your financial advisor created with you.

View market volatility as an opportunity

Market volatility can test even disciplined investors, but trying to time the market is rarely successful, which is why staying invested through periods of uncertainty is so important. While downturns can feel uncomfortable, they may also present opportunities to strengthen your strategy.

Revisit investment diversification

A thoughtful asset allocation can help provide balance between equity and fixed‑income investments, offering structure and consistency when markets are unpredictable. A well‑diversified allocation built around your goals and time horizon can serve as a steady foundation for your portfolio.

Consider rebalancing

Because different asset classes perform differently over time, market swings can cause your portfolio to drift from its original allocation and unintentionally change your level of risk. Regularly reviewing your investment mix — and rebalancing when needed — can help bring your portfolio back in line with your goals.

Check on your emergency fund

A solid emergency savings cushion is an essential part of navigating market uncertainty. Most investors should aim to keep three to six months of total expenses in cash and cash equivalents, and if your savings fall short of that, now is a good time to ramp up your efforts.

Having adequate emergency savings can help cover unexpected expenses without forcing you to sell investments when markets may be down. It can also provide added stability if market volatility affects the broader economy and leads to job uncertainty.

Talk to your financial advisor

It’s normal to feel uneasy when the markets are volatile. Work with your financial advisor to discuss your personal priorities and ensure you’re on track for your long-term financial goals.