Should you be worried about your retirement during periods of market volatility?

Market ups and downs can be caused by many factors — from inflation and changing interest rates to political tensions and rising energy prices. Recently, events in the Middle East have added uncertainty to global markets, pushing oil prices higher and leading investors to pay closer attention to what might happen next.

When oil prices rise, as they have in recent months, it doesn’t just affect how much you pay at the pump. It can also increase the cost of moving goods, producing products, and heating homes. Over time, this can feed into higher prices across the economy and make investors more cautious. At times like this, you may see short-term changes in the value of your retirement savings.

It’s completely normal to feel uneasy when you see your investments go up and down — but short-term fluctuations are a normal part of investing.

Markets often react quickly to news and uncertainty, but they don’t typically stay down for long. If you’re still years away from retirement, day-to-day or month-to-month changes matter much less than the long-term trend. Staying invested and sticking to your plan is often what matters most over time.

If you’re closer to retirement, this kind of environment can be a good reminder to check in on your investments and make sure your level of risk still feels right for you. No matter when you plan to retire, understanding your risk tolerance and staying proactive can help keep your retirement goals on track.