Optimistic Sign In a Fear-Filled Market?

Optimistic Sign In a Fear-Filled Market?

Provided by Rita Wilczek

"Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful," according to legendary investor Warren Buffett.

It's a great quote but complex advice to follow, especially in 2022 when stock prices are down double-digits. It seems like company after company is telling shareholders it will be a challenging year.

But has fearful sentiment reached an extreme? According to an April survey by the American Association of Individual Investors, nearly 60% of individual investors describe their six-month outlook for stocks as "bearish"–the highest level since March 2009. A.A.I.I. has been surveying investors since 1987, and the April bearish figure is the 10th highest in history.

The A.A.I.I. has a lot of research into what happens when sentiment gets stretched on bullish and bearish sides. But the most important research takes into account your specific goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance.

Please reach out if you feel a bit queasy about today's markets. The best medicine may be a dose of reassurance.

Rita Wilczek may be reached at (952) 542-8911 or rwilczek@hirep.net