Stock markets around the world are suffering a major period of volatility as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. Although markets do not respond well to periods of uncertainty, what is certain is that volatility goes hand in hand with stock market investment; and although market movements can be concerning, we have all become much better at expecting the unexpected, experience has taught us that. Both the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, and the outgoing Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, were keen to emphasise the temporary nature of the economic impact of COVID-19.

…“keep your head when all about you are losing theirs””

Focus on the long-term

To navigate market volatility, it’s best to stick to your plan, diversify your holdings and very importantly, expect and accept volatility. Investors with diversified portfolios, who stay in the market, have historically and consistently experienced steady gains over time. Even though it can be difficult to ignore daily market movements, it is vital to focus on the long term and remember that volatility also presents investment opportunities.

A clear head will stand you in good stead As Rudyard Kipling wrote, it’s important to “keep your head when all about you are losing theirs.” Investment requires a disciplined approach and a degree of holding your nerve if markets fall. Investment professionals know that markets can be volatile and will inevitably go down as well as up from time to time. The worst investment strategy”
“you can adopt is to jump in and out of the stock market, panic when prices fall, and sell investments at the bottom of the market.

Finger on the pulse

Instead of being worried by volatility, the best strategy is to be prepared. A well- defined investment plan, tailored to your objectives, in line with your attitude to risk, that takes into account your financial situation, can help you weather short-term market fluctuations. Market volatility is a timely reminder to keep your investments under regular review.
We aim to manage the inherent volatility of markets, so your savings have the best chance of growing for the future – without giving you sleepless nights and whilst ensuring you aren’t taking too much, or too little, risk with your money.”

Transferring wealth from one generation to the next is a difficult conversation topic, but with the baby boom generation expected to pass down a record-breaking amount of assets over the coming years, confronting this taboo has never been so important. And experts suggest that, while discussions involving money can be uncomfortable, the best approach is invariably to talk.

The next 30 years are expected to witness the largest ever intergenerational passing of wealth as baby boomers – the wealthiest generation in history – prepare to pass on assets to their heirs. Commentators have dubbed it the ‘great wealth transfer’ with estimates1 suggesting an unprecedented £5.5tn could be set to pass between generations in the UK.

Elephant in the room

While the significance attached to the wealth transfer process is unquestionable, most families remain uncomfortable talking about money, with finance among the few remaining taboo topics. As a result, discussing money issues with their children can prove a difficult task for many parents, with conversations typically awkward or The Great Wealth Transfer: why it’s good to talk
stilted. However, it is vitally important retirees involve their offspring in financial planning decisions if the wealth transfer process is ultimately to be successful.

A balancing act

The issue of inheritance unsurprisingly raises a number of concerns for parents. For instance, there is the dilemma of wanting to help children financially while not dampening their offspring’s work ethic. In addition, parents need to balance the emotional desire to leave significant sums to heirs with the need to ensure their own financial wellbeing, particularly in an era of spiralling long-term care costs.

Start the conversation

Arguably the key inheritance challenge, though, remains ensuring your children are ready to take on financial responsibility for family assets. Encouraging their involvement in your financial planning decisions now is a particularly good way to boost their financial literacy and ensure they are ready when the time comes. So, introduce them to us and we can help you start those difficult conversations.

*Kings Court Trust, 2018