Should I retire during market uncertainty?

FINANCIAL experts often extol the virtues of staying invested and ignoring the noise during heightened market volatility. Much research has been done that indicates that while it is tempting to bail out, it is usually difficult to jump back on the bandwagon without missing the best trading days, resulting in a dent in portfolio value.

So, it is advisable to seek a diversified asset allocation that is aligned to your risk appetite, goals, financial situation, time horizon, and one that can ride out market volatility. Steadfast investors with time on their side would be rewarded when the market bounces back after a downturn.

However, while this can work for individuals who have more than 10 years before retiring, what can a pre-retiree or a recent retiree do? Those who are older would have less time than younger investors to allow their investments to bounce back and make up the losses.