The HTL Group - Blog #Financial support New PlymouthThe HTL Group - Blog #Financial support New Plymouthhttps://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/tag/financial-support-new-plymouthThu, 09 Apr 2026 19:20:00 +1000http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Feeling uncertain about the markets? Why staying invested is still the smartest move]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/feeling-uncertain-about-the-markets-why-staying-invested-is-still-the-smartest-moveFeeling uncertain about market volatility? Discover why staying invested and a diversified strategy can still deliver long-term success. Learn more with The HTL Group.]]>


Mid-year is a great time to take stock of your financial plan – especially in a year like this.

Markets have been unpredictable lately. Rising interest rates, inflation pressures, and global uncertainty are making many investors feel uneasy.
But here’s the truth: market volatility is normal – and reacting emotionally can often do more harm than good.

Why a long-term, diversified strategy still wins
Trying to "time the market" rarely works. In fact, some of the best gains often come after periods of uncertainty. The key is sticking to a strategy that’s designed for your goals, your risk comfort, and your timeline.

That’s where diversification comes in. A well-diversified portfolio spreads your risk across different asset types, so you’re not overly exposed to one downturn. Over time, this creates a much smoother ride toward your long-term objectives.

Avoiding the market’s downs may mean missing out on the ups as well. Consider this:

  • 78% of the stock market’s best days have occurred during a bear market or the first two months of a bull market.

  • If you missed the 10 best days in the market over the past 30 years, your returns would have been cut in half.

  • Missing the 30 best days would have reduced your returns by an astonishing 83%.


The Graphs below illustrate how critical it is to stay invested through market cycles.


Good days happen in bad markets

S&P 500 Index Best Days: 1995–2024


Good Days Happen in Bad Markets Pie Chart


Missing the market’s best days has been costly

S&P 500 Index Average Annual Total Returns: 1995–2024

Missing the Market's Best Days Bar Graph

How a financial adviser helps you stay on track
A good adviser does more than pick investments. They help you:
  • Make sense of market movements without panic
  • Keep your plan aligned to life changes (new job, family, goals)
  • Adjust your investment mix if your circumstances or risk profile shift
  • Identify new opportunities- even during volatility

At The HTL Group, we work alongside you to make sure your plan is still working for you, not against you.

And don’t forget – The KiwiSaver $521 top-up
While reviewing your investments, it’s also a perfect time to check in on your KiwiSaver.
If you’ve contributed at least $1,043 between 1 July and 30 June, the Government will top it up with an extra $521.43.
It’s a simple win- and every dollar adds up when it’s invested for the long term.

Ready for a mid-year check-in?
Whether you want to review your KiwiSaver, check your investments, or just make sure your plan still reflects where you’re headed - we’re here to help.

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