Key Points
- Most investors (73%) have experienced at least one major financial setback of some kind in their life, according to the Ameriprise Financial Comebacks study.
- The most common financial setbacks among investors in the past are typically the same setbacks we are seeing during the pandemic.
- The good news is that with time and deliberate actions, about 9 in 10 investors have made some degree of a recovery.
Many individuals experience at least one major financial setback at some point. And while it’s costly and takes time to recover, 89% of those we surveyed either made a comeback or are on the path to recovering.
The study was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of how consumers overcome financial challenges. During this time when many individuals are facing financial hardships and health risks, findings from this study provide valuable insights to discuss with your financial advisor.
Top 5 setbacks and tips for preparing a comeback
Nearly three quarters (73%) of individuals reported at least one financial setback in their lives. Here are the five most common ones along with actions to consider.
- Market losses: If the value of your investment portfolio decreases during market volatility, you might feel tempted to make changes or move to cash. Stay invested if you are able. Talk with your advisor if you are concerned or if your goals or risk tolerance have changed.
- Earning less money than expected: A pay cut during this challenging economic period may not result in a setback. If you don’t have an emergency cash reserve, work with your advisor to find ways to free up additional cash. If you are working, establish or maintain three to six months in a cash account. The No. 1 step investors took to prepare for unexpected financial events is setting aside an emergency savings fund.
- Job loss: If you experience a job loss due to COVID-19 pandemic events or for any other reason, reduce unnecessary expenses and speak with an advisor to understand your options. For those who qualify, the CARES act may provide additional financial support. And try to avoid tapping into your retirement accounts as there could be impacts to taxes and future growth.
- Supporting family members financially: It’s natural to want to help loved ones through a financially difficult period. Remember the airplane analogy: Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others. So make sure your finances are in good order before offering help. Also, make sure you clearly understand whether the help you're providing is a gift or a loan so you don’t put your own financial situation at risk.
- Bad financial decisions: During the current period of economic stress and health risk, judgement can become clouded. Avoid making impulsive short-term decisions. Lean on your financial advisor for targeted and customized information. They know you and your situation and can provide personalized financial advice.
A financial comeback takes time
Most investors in our study (89%) have made some level of comeback ranging from a partial to full recovery. Some investors (21%) even said they are better off financially.
A key takeaway from the study is that financial comebacks take time, often several years. Nearly two-thirds of investors said it took them between one and five years to get their finances back on track.