Yes, CDs are safe. But that comes at the cost of higher earning potential.
Last month’s stock market drop was scary, especially if some of your retirement savings are in stocks. And while the market may have recovered, many investors are still shaken. If you’re wondering whether you should pull your money out of your 401(k) or other retirement account and put it in a certificate of deposit, it’s understandable.
But before you make any drastic moves, consider what the experts have to say.
“CDs can feel like a safe haven in this kind of environment because they offer predictability, which is appealing when everything else feels shaky,” says Taylor Kovar, certified financial planner and CEO of 11 Financial. But, he warns, “there are some trade-offs.”
Here’s what you need to know before you upend your investment strategy.
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If you have decades before retirement, stick to the plan
Stock market swings are stressful, but a smart investing strategy factors in the dips. The S&P 500 has historically delivered around a 10% annual return for investors who keep their money there for decades. If you have many years before retirement, you can afford to ride out the waves and grow your money over the long term.
“One of the biggest retirement risks is getting too conservative too soon,” said Noah Damsky, CFA, principal of Marina Wealth Advisors. “Retirement can last for over 20 years, so get too conservative too soon, and you risk prematurely depleting your portfolio.”
Keeping some of your retirement savings in low-risk assets is wise, but the amount depends on a number of factors, including your age and risk tolerance. A financial adviser or robo-advisor can help you create the best strategy for you.
If retirement is near, low-risk assets like CDs make more sense
If you’re close to retirement — or are already retired — you have less time to recover from stock market dips. So, your priority should be less on growing your nest egg and more on preserving it. In this case, allocating more of your savings to low-risk, fixed-income assets like CDs and bonds can be a smart move. Again, a financial adviser can help you determine your best route.
Don’t let emotion derail your retirement plan
Whatever your age and investment goals, don’t let the economic headlines scare you into making any drastic changes to your retirement strategy.
“For investors rattled by the recent dip, I’d say this: Don’t make emotional decisions in response to short-term volatility. Step back, review your timeline, and make sure your investments match your goals and risk tolerance today, not what they were five years ago,” said Kovar. “A well-balanced plan usually includes both stocks and CDs, one for growth, the other for peace of mind.”