How Sequence of Returns Risks Impacts Retirement Income

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Retirement planning is transforming how we manage our finances today to make sure we have a comfortable and secure future.

Understanding sequence of returns risk is important for retirees and those nearing retirement. This risk can significantly impact retirement savings and income, making it a must to develop strategies that keep your money safe against it.

Sequence of returns risk, also known as sequence risk, refers to the danger that the timing of withdrawals from a retirement account will coincide with unfavorable market returns. Unlike average returns over time, sequence risk highlights the importance of the order in which returns occur, particularly during the early years of retirement.

At Women Financial Power, we follow key retirement income planning principles to handle retirement challenges effectively. We want our clients to not only accumulate, but protect their assets. I Imagine two retirees with identical portfolios and average returns but different sequences of returns. Retiree A experiences a market downturn early in retirement, while Retiree B faces downturns later. Despite having the same average returns, Retiree A's savings might deplete more quickly due to early withdrawals during market lows. This example shows the importance of understanding and managing sequence of returns risk to protect retirement savings and maintain financial stability.

At Women Financial Power, we believe in educating women on how to take control of their future. Our mission is to provide clear, strategic guidance that protects what matters and supports long term financial stability.

The Importance of Understanding Sequence Risk

Why should you care? Well, if you retire and face a market downturn right off the bat, you might have to withdraw more from your savings to cover expenses. This means less money for future growth and a higher risk of outliving your savings.

This risk shows us that the order in which investment returns happen can have a big impact on our retirement income. Knowing about sequence risk helps us make smart choices about how we invest our money and when we take it out. By thinking about sequence risk, retirees can make sure they're ready for any ups and downs in the market.

Focus on Income, not just Accumulation

Many people are only worried about accumulation when it comes to retirement. But more should shift their focus the income their assets will provide in their retirement years. Income-focused retirement planning involves strategies to make sure that you have a steady stream of income during retirement. You shouldn't have to worry about running out of money in retirement —guaranteed income should be embedded in your retirement plan. One of the major differences between the accumulation and income planning is the focus on the end goal. With income-focused planning, the emphasis is on generating income streams that will support your lifestyle during retirement. The number one fear of retiree's is outliving their money.

Strategies to Mitigate Sequence of Return Risk

1. Diversified Investment Portfolio

Generally having a mix of different types of investments can help spread out the risk. This means that if one part of your portfolio isn't doing well, the other parts can help balance things out. This way when the market drops there is a portion of your retirement funds not losing money in the market.

2. Gradual Withdrawal Plans

Taking out money slowly from your retirement savings, especially at the beginning of retirement, can help make sure you don't run out of money too soon. It also gives your investments time to bounce back if they take a hit.

3. Annuities

Annuities can give you a steady stream of income no matter what's happening in the market. This can help make sure you have money coming in even if your other investments aren't doing well. If you aren't familiar with an annuity it's a personal pension plan. Focusing on guaranteed income gives you control and improves your retirement.

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