Being undoubtedly in a bear market (falling market) since August last year, the first question you might ask is how much longer will this last?
Excluding the bear market of 1929, which lasted for several years, the average bear market lasts for 14 months. This implies that, statistically, we are nearing the end. However, there is no guarantee; statistics can only provide us with an indication, not concrete answers.
No one can say with certainty when the current bear market will end, however the following general tips can help guide you through the rest of 2008:
1. Stay calm
Don’t be swayed by the crowds and sell your investments;
2. Look at how the current market decline has affected your portfolio
You should factor in the great returns you’ve experienced in previous years.
3. Accept risk
A portfolio of shares or property is by nature volatile and will produce negative returns from time to time.
4. Adopt a long-term approach
Investing in shares and property pays off over the longer term.
5. Keep positive
The investment house UBS has forecasted a yield of 6.6 % (inclusive of imputation credits) on the ASX top 200 stocks. This means that even as the capital value falls, you will receive good income. If dividends are higher than 4%, the market offers good value.
6. Look at investing!
In most cases share markets bounce back well before the end of a recession. Provided you have a long-term investment focus, now could well be the best time to buy!
If you’d like for me to send you some material which supports the above, please contact me. I’d be more than happy to share these with you.
