What happens when the market falls midway while you have invested for a longer term??

Ans: Two points from me since this will happen very frequently when you’re invested for the long run:-

1. This is how the markets behave – if they were not to have volatility, they would give FD-type returns only. Note that I call it volatile behaviour and not risky behaviour.
2. Do not change your character just because markets are volatile – do not turn into a short term investor when markets go down. You should take out any investments only if either your goal for which that investment had been done has arrived or if that investment is no longer a good one to continue and you wish to shift to another better one.

I get excited when markets fall, rather than when they go up, because a fall gives me more opportunities to acquire good securities at low rates.

Ans: SIP is a much better way becaause we dont know when the correction will happen and how much it will happen and for how long.

Ans: if you are investing for long term then dont wait for market to fall, stay invested

Ans: Market crashes can trigger anxiety, even for seasoned investors. However, they also present opportunities for long-term investors. It’s important to approach such situations calmly and strategically.

Key Effects on Portfolio Strategy
Temporary Loss of Value
A crash can lead to a drop in portfolio value. This is usually temporary for long-term investors. Patience is critical during such periods.

Increased Volatility
Expect heightened market volatility. Equity prices might swing drastically. This should not alter long-term goals.

Opportunity to Acquire Quality Assets
Market dips offer a chance to buy strong-performing assets at lower prices. Disciplined investing during these times can boost long-term returns.

Importance of Rebalancing
Rebalancing is crucial after market corrections. It ensures the portfolio remains aligned with your investment goals and risk tolerance.

Why Rebalancing is Needed
Asset allocation may shift during a market crash. Equities might decline more than other asset classes, altering your portfolio mix.

How to Approach Rebalancing
Review the allocation of your equity, debt, and other assets. Shift funds strategically to restore the original allocation.

Frequency of Rebalancing
Rebalancing should be done periodically, but avoid overdoing it during short-term market fluctuations.

Avoid Emotional Decisions
Stay Focused on Goals
Market crashes are temporary. Stick to your long-term goals instead of reacting impulsively.

Ignore Market Noise
Avoid frequent monitoring of portfolios during such times. Focus on the bigger picture.

Avoid Panic Selling
Exiting investments during a crash locks in losses and erodes potential recovery gains.

Strengthening Portfolio Post-Crash
Diversify Further
If diversification seems inadequate, add sectors or geographies to your portfolio. This spreads risk better.

Focus on Quality
Allocate more to fundamentally strong funds or stocks with a proven track record.

Increase Equity Exposure Strategically
If the market is undervalued, increasing equity investments could be beneficial.

Tax Implications to Consider
Keep taxation in mind while rebalancing:

Selling equities during the crash may trigger short-term or long-term capital gains taxes.

Review the tax-efficiency of debt funds if reallocating funds from equities to fixed-income instruments.

Benefits of Professional Guidance
Consider working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to:

Assess your portfolio post-crash.
Implement tax-efficient rebalancing strategies.
Stay disciplined in adhering to your financial plan.
Final Insights
A crash in benchmark indices like Sensex or Nifty50 is part of the investment cycle. Long-term investors benefit most when they stay calm, focused, and disciplined. Rebalancing can restore balance in your portfolio and prepare it for recovery. Stick to your strategy and remain committed to your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment