Living In Historic Times

Context Matters

We Are Living in Historic Times — And Most Investors Don’t Realize It

Valuations are stretched, inflation remains stubborn, and the global financial system is showing signs of strain not seen in decades. Yet many retirement portfolios today look almost identical to those held during the last great bubbles — right before major market resets changed the paths of millions of investors.

Before taking this diagnostic, you may want to explore a few key pages that put today’s environment into perspective:

Once you’ve explored those insights, take the short assessment below to see how prepared you may be for the next major shift — and what steps could help protect and strengthen your retirement future.

Quick Diagnostic

Are You Prepared for the Next Major Market Reset?

This 2–3 minute checkup is designed to help you see, at a glance, how exposed you may be if the current cycle ends with a sharp reset. Answer as honestly as you can—this is for your eyes first.

There are no “perfect” answers. Each choice simply reflects how your current positioning might behave in a serious downturn.

1. How would you describe your current stock-market exposure in your retirement accounts?
2. If the market fell 30–40% over the next 12–18 months, what would you most likely do?
3. How often does your advisor (or you, if self-directed) speak specifically about market cycles and downside risk?
4. What role do truly defensive or non-correlated assets (such as precious metals) play in your plan?
5. How close are you to relying on your investments for income?
6. When was the last time someone stress-tested your retirement plan for a serious, prolonged downturn?
7. How would you describe your emotional response to the idea of a major market reset?
8. Which statement best describes your current plan?