Investors were in panic mode this week.
President Donald Trump just said he would hike tariffs to 25% by Friday on $200 billion worth of goods if the two sides didn’t reach a deal in a timely manner. Of course, news of that caliber will always lead to chaos and fear.
However, even in times of chaos, it never pays to panic. Instead, here are some of the top ways to protect yourself and your portfolios.
Tip No. 1 – Have Discipline
When markets fall apart, we tend to get a bit emotional. Logic goes right out the window. Discipline means holding on to good stocks, even if they move lower. It also means avoiding the desire to make speculative, risky bets hoping to break even.
We have to remember that markets are resilient. They don’t stay down for long.
Also, be willing to see out the “blood in the streets” trades.
When markets crash, investors are typically presented with outstanding buy opportunities in oversold stocks that no one else wants to touch.
In short, remain calm and focused. Don’t sell out of panic. Just sit tight.
Tip No. 2 – Consider Buying Precious Metals
When markets turn south, investors typically flock to precious metals like gold and silver. Therefore, it’s always wise to keep a small percentage of your portfolio in precious metals as a hedge for a potential market meltdown.
Given the fact that precious metals act as a great form of insurance against global chaos and stock market meltdowns, it’s one of the safer tools. Gold, for example, will increase in price in response to any number of potential events; major uncertainty; a decrease in the value of the dollar.
Tip No. 3 – Be Well Diversified for Volatility
Some investors, betting on higher volatility will turn to:
- iPath S&P 500 VIX Short-Term Futures (VXX)
- ProShares Ultra VIX Short-Term Futures (UVXY)
- VelocityShares Daily 2x VIX Short-Term ETN (TVIX)