Is this a market correction?
Navigating Market Volatility: Insights for Investors
In early March 2025, U.S. equities officially entered correction territory, registering a decline of over 10% from their recent highs. For clients looking to find a financial adviser, this is a timely reminder of the importance of experienced guidance in times of uncertainty.
The market downturn reflects a growing unease over newly implemented U.S. trade tariffs and rising economic headwinds. Investors are increasingly seeking the best financial adviser service to help them make sense of the rapid shifts affecting global markets.
After driving strong market returns for the past two years, the technology sector has fallen behind the broader S&P 500 Index in 2025. As a result, many investors are turning to independent advisers for insight on diversification, portfolio protection, and long-term strategy.
Book a meeting with an adviser today to discuss how market changes could impact your financial plan.
What’s driving the correction?
The S&P 500 has dipped into correction territory for the first time since 2023, falling 10% below its all-time peak from just three weeks ago. The speed of this decline has caught many investors off-guard, especially as the year began with positive economic momentum.
Much of the market’s unease centres on new tariff policies. These measures have raised concerns about global trade impacts and potential slowdowns in economic growth.
“Uncertainty is the driver around the market’s recent selloff,” said one senior investment strategist. The financial community is closely monitoring these developments, with many recommending consultations with a certified adviser to navigate the choppy conditions ahead.
Volatility is expected to remain elevated in the coming weeks, underlining the value of engaging with an experienced independent financial adviser for up-to-date advice.
Book a meeting with an adviser to review your investment and pension strategies.
Market fundamentals remain resilient
Despite recent volatility, some market fundamentals remain robust. By mid-February, the S&P 500 had gained 4.5%, hitting a fresh all-time high before retreating. Year-to-date as of March 17, however, the index has lost 3.23%, marking a shift from the strong 25%+ annual returns seen in 2023 and 2024.
An independent adviser can help investors assess the current environment, with particular focus on protection strategies to mitigate downside risk. “We’re starting from a position of strength,” commented one chief investment officer. Many businesses and households still hold healthy levels of cash, providing some cushion against further volatility.
For those looking to find financial adviser services near me, now may be a prudent time to re-evaluate investment allocations and pension holdings.
The latest round of tariffs has added complexity to the global outlook, with shifting U.S. foreign policies contributing to broader geopolitical concerns.
Sector-specific struggles
The market’s recent weakness is concentrated in sectors that previously outperformed. Information technology, communication services, and consumer discretionary stocks – which collectively make up half of the S&P 500’s value – have all posted negative returns so far this year.
This trend has been compounded by weaker performance from small-cap stocks, while mid-cap stocks have shown relative resilience.
For investors seeking the best financial adviser to guide them through this changing environment, sector diversification and disciplined risk management are more important than ever.
While U.S. equities are under pressure, international markets tell a different story. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks large-cap stocks in developed markets outside the U.S., is up 10.8% year-to-date – outperforming the S&P 500 by 14%.
Improved sentiment overseas is partly linked to rising defence budgets, particularly in Europe, amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Speak with an independent adviser today to explore global investment opportunities tailored to your needs.
Ongoing volatility likely
Elevated volatility is a key theme in 2025. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX), a widely followed gauge of market sentiment, spiked above 27 before the recent correction and remains above 20.
This heightened uncertainty reinforces the value of a certified adviser in helping clients stay focused on their long-term goals. Whether you are reviewing pension arrangements, seeking investment protection, or comparing financial adviser fees, a tailored service from a trusted professional can make a significant difference.
Book a meeting with an adviser to discuss how we can help you navigate market corrections and protect your financial future.
Founded in 2017, Fintuity has fast become one of the only digital Independent Financial Advisers (IFA) in the United Kingdom. Fintuity offers a wide range of financial advisory services including pensions, protection, investments and mortgage advice. The key difference is that as an exclusively digital service, we can offer significant savings and a service that is direct to you and on demand.
