Investors experience market swings as a normal part of investing, and this year has been no exception. While market declines - such as the tariff-driven sell-off - can be uncomfortable, they also create opportunities to invest at more attractive valuations. On the other hand, when markets recover and climb to record levels, some investors may feel uneasy even if the underlying fundamentals are still strong. In both scenarios, holding portfolios that can weather all phases of the market cycle, with an eye toward long-term financial goals, becomes even more important.

Washington is back in the headlines as the federal government faces a shutdown if policymakers can't reach a new funding agreement. This adds to a year in which government policies around trade, taxes, immigration, and more have created uncertainty for the economy and markets.

As markets reach new highs and artificial intelligence stocks continue to rally, some investors are asking "are we in a bubble?" This is as much about investor psychology as it is about market conditions. While it’s normal to worry about bubbles, focusing too much on them can lead to counterproductive portfolio decisions that prioritize timing and short-term trading rather than long-term financial goals.