What a month December was! The volatility and severity of market movements, both up and down, this month have many reliving the unpleasant feelings of the 2008 Financial Crisis. For some of us the 2000-2002 Tech Bubble also looms in our minds. It is natural for instincts to cause a survival mode reaction during times of uncertainty. However, history has shown us this is not the time to panic and deviate from a long term plan that has been developed to serve the needs of you and your loved ones over decades, NOT DAYS. I know you are going to think I am crazy for writing this but “I AM EXCITED FOR THIS SELLOFF!” Since 2009 the equity markets have NOT experienced a Bear Market (by definition a 20 % decline from highs) until recently. We came close in 2011 but markets quickly reversed and continued their climb upward. How we respond in environments like today is how we can help the financial confidence that may provide for our loved ones in perpetuity. Be cautious when acquaintances and talking heads tell you “this time is different”. The world is in chaos! Washington politics is dysfunctional! Tariffs! Lions and Tigers and Bears, OH MY! I would venture these are the same people that in 1999 stated DOTCOM stocks are creating a “New Paradigm” and cannot lose money. WRONG! Pets.Com, eToys.com, PSI NET, ring a bell? How about in 2007 when these same people were taking the equity out of their homes to spend on luxuries and vacation homes because “my home value can’t go down“. Some even tapped their entrepreneurial side and began buying and flipping properties with no money down and poor credit. How did that end? With the 2008 Financial Crisis, of course! I do not know when this market selloff will end. I do not know how deep it may run. However, what I believe is that if you stuck to your long term plan and properly diversified during the time periods noted above you made a wise decision and your wealth grew. A diversified portfolio can feel disappointing during both up and down markets. Do not let emotion, politics, fear or greed navigate your investment approach. Discipline and a well-constructed plan can guide you through many market cycles. For the long term investor who can maintain discipline during these difficult times, they will one day reflect back on how they are now “Grateful for a Crazy December” Wishing you all a wonderful 2019.  Ad#2378097

Informationbtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of the author and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct.