In our latest client survey, we asked how recent events, including Donald Trump’s return to the White House, have changed their view of the world and their financial outlook.
The responses were clear. While a few clients were cautiously optimistic, the vast majority said they felt more uncertain. Some described the current political backdrop as “unnerving” or “chaotic”, with one noting, “Every day you wake up wondering what might happen next.”
Yet for all the short-term noise, there’s a reassuring truth. Markets move on.
Since Trump returned to office in January, there’s been plenty of volatility. A drop in tech shares here, a rally in oil prices there. But the main US indices remain higher now than they were at the start of the year. It follows a pattern we’ve seen many times before. Markets react quickly to big political headlines but often regain ground when the initial uncertainty fades. Always remember, Stock Markets never like surprises!
That’s why, while we absolutely listen to concerns about global instability, we continue to emphasise long-term strategy over what can be the short-term, often ‘emotional’ reaction. The most successful investors are rarely the ones trying to time the market. They’re the ones who stay focused on their long-term plan and take advice when it matters.
It’s also why we continue to check in regularly with our clients. These surveys aren’t just for show. They give us an important snapshot of how people are feeling, where they need reassurance, and where our advice makes the most difference.
This time, 63% of respondents said their outlook has remained stable over the last quarter. 28% said they feel less confident, and 9% reported a more positive view. For those who said they felt more anxious, global events and taxation were the most commonly mentioned issues. For those feeling more confident, financial planning was the key factor. One person wrote, “My finances are well structured, so even with all the instability, I feel in control.”
When asked about the most important financial challenges right now, 51% said financial security in retirement. Other areas included protecting themselves and their family (17%), and inheritance tax mitigation (8%).
Karl Pemberton, managing director at Active Chartered Financial Planners, said: “It’s completely understandable that people are feeling a bit unsettled at the moment. The world feels way more unpredictable than it did six months ago, and that uncertainty filters through to the way people view their finances. But what’s encouraging is that many of our clients are able to rise above the headlines, because of our regular communication and strength of relationship with their adviser. That’s what we’re here for. To help people stay on track, think long term, and make good decisions, whatever’s happening in the world around them.”
So, as we celebrate our 25th year as a business, we will continue doing what has always worked. Listening, planning, and keeping our focus firmly on the long term.
Over the last quarter of a century, we have seen plenty of market turbulence. The dot-com crash, the 2008 financial crisis, Brexit, the pandemic, and more recently, geopolitical tensions and inflationary spikes. Each time, markets reacted. Each time, they recovered. Through it all, we have helped clients stay focused on their goals and not get blown off course by the headlines of the moment.
Because while presidents may change, and markets may wobble, our job is to help them stay confident in the future, whatever happens next.
If you’d like to discuss your financial plans or find out how we can help, contact us today.
Call: 01642 765957
Email info@activefp.co.uk
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