Even the most seasoned investors have watched the recent swift decline in the stock market with a bit of wonderor horror. Bear markets are a well-documented part of normal stock market activity, yet they still seem to surprise investors whenever they happen.

Right now, you are being told not to do many things, which may make you want to do somethinganything. When the information updates and the financial markets are moving as quickly as they are right now, it can be challenging to find a strategic move to make, especially when the age-old advice is to stay invested through good times and bad.

We spoke with wealth management expert Debra Brennan Tagg about investment strategies to consider during the COVID-19 crisis. The Brennan Financial Services president said, While the upside potential of the stock market is what lures us, we should recognize those big downturnsbetter known as bear marketshave their place.

They remind us that investing is not a risk-free proposition and that no one knows the direction of the market in the short-term. More importantly, investing does not have a one size fits all answer. What is right in my portfolio should have no bearing on what is appropriate in your portfolio since we have different life goals. Now that we are in a bear market, here are five ways you can use it to your advantage.

Here are five strategies to consider, including one major mistake to avoid.

Your financial plan should be specific to you, your risk and resources, and your life goals. While the risk for all of us is elevated during this uncertain time, the structure of your financial plan should guide you to continue to make sound financial decisions.

Editors Note: Debra Brennan Tagg offers securities and advisory services through FSC Securities Corp. (FSC), member FINRA/SIPC, and financial planning services through DBT Wealth Consultants. FSC is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of FSC. Listed entities are not affiliated with FSC. The views expressed herein are not necessarily the opinion of FSC Securities Corp. and should not be construed as an offer to buy or sell any securities mentioned.

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How to Respond to the Coronavirus Situation From an Investments Perspective - D Magazine