27 March 2026
general
Over the past month, investors in the global stock markets have faced increased volatility.
While this can be worrying, experienced investors will know that market turbulence due to factors outside of their control is to be expected. Market indices are fluctuating constantly, and while some downswings will be more significant than others, values have historically recovered time and time again.
As such, remaining calm and staying the course could increase your chances of achieving positive returns in the long run. By contrast, selling during a downswing could mean locking in a loss.
Read on to learn what’s happening in the stock markets, what historical trends can teach us about such volatility, and four tips to help you stay calm.
Global stock market indices have trended downwards throughout March 2026
Before the conflict in the Middle East began, the UK’s stock market had been enjoying steady growth in the early months of 2026. Indeed, the FTSE 100 – an index of the 100 largest companies on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) – peaked at a record high of 10,910 on 27 February 2026.
However, following the war’s outbreak on 28 February, global markets have become more volatile and fluctuated throughout March.
Historically, markets have trended upwards over time
Experienced investors are no strangers to volatility: fluctuations in share values are part and parcel of the stock market.
Historically, the markets have recovered from even their most significant downswings. For example, the Covid-19 pandemic saw the FTSE 100 suffer a downswing, before recovering to pre-pandemic levels just over two years later.
Those who stayed invested for the long term likely saw their investments recover and deliver positive returns. Meanwhile, those who sold shares during a downswing likely locked in a loss and missed out on market recovery and future growth.
As stock market volatility continues, your instinct may be to take action to control your own financial future. But while past trends are not a guarantee of future performance, history suggests that staying the course through turbulence could help you achieve positive returns in the long run.
4 tips for remaining calm during a downswing
1. Limit your exposure to media noise
When you’re surrounded by media reports of falling share values, as well as predictions of future turbulence, it can be easy to panic.
It’s important to remember that many news sources thrive on exaggeration and negativity. Headlines are often designed to create fear and panic to grab your attention, meaning they might not be presenting you with a balanced, objective view of the markets.
If watching the news, going on social media, or reading online articles is making you feel overwhelmed, it could be worth taking a media break. This can help you cool off and think through any decisions before acting.
2. Remind yourself of your goals
If you’re starting to question your investment strategy, it can often help to revisit your investment goals.
How long did you plan to invest for? What are you hoping to achieve? What’s your motivation for building wealth?
Once you have reflected on your plan, you might realise there is no need for immediate panic. For example, if you were planning to stay invested for another 10 years, you could have plenty of time for your shares to recover and grow, while selling now could mean falling short of your goals.
3. Avoid impulsive decisions
Finances can be a highly emotive subject. The thought of making a significant loss can trigger a range of strong emotions, such as fear, anxiety, and regret.
In many cases, these emotions can cloud your judgement and cause you to act impulsively, rather than logically. As such, it’s often worth avoiding any irreversible decisions while emotions are running high.
Instead, take a breath and allow yourself time to calm down. Taking time to do something relaxing, such as going for a walk, enjoying a hobby, or spending some time with loved ones, could help you return to the matter with a clearer head. When you do, you might find things aren’t nearly as bad as they seemed before.
4. Seek professional advice before acting
If, after completing the steps above, you still feel compelled to take action, it’s generally wise to seek professional advice first.
A financial planner can help you assess your goals, investment portfolio, and the impact of ongoing volatility to determine the most appropriate course of action. By completing a thorough analysis, we can provide you with the information and guidance you need to make an informed decision and help you move closer to achieving your goals.
Get in touch
If you’re worried about how market volatility is impacting your investments, get in touch for support from our investment team.
Email enquiries@jesellars.co.uk or call 01934 875 919 to find out more about how we can help you.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
Investments should be considered over the longer term and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.
