This episode explores the anxieties surrounding current market volatility and its impact on investors, particularly those nearing retirement. Against the backdrop of fluctuating economic policies and international trade uncertainties, listeners' questions reveal widespread concerns about retirement planning in uncertain times. More significantly, the hosts address the fear of retiring into a down market, citing examples of successful navigations of similar situations. The discussion pivots to strategies for mitigating risk, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced portfolio with a mix of safe and risk assets tailored to individual time horizons and risk tolerance. For instance, the hosts suggest adjusting portfolio allocations rather than completely divesting from the market. In contrast to the all-or-nothing approach, the experts advocate for a more nuanced strategy, incorporating target allocations and considering factors like inflation and long-term economic trends. Ultimately, the episode underscores the need for a long-term perspective, emphasizing that short-term market fluctuations should not dictate long-term investment decisions, and that diversification and careful planning are crucial for navigating economic uncertainty. This means for investors is a call for calm, measured adjustments, and a focus on long-term financial goals rather than reacting to short-term market noise.