Time In, not Timing: Why Patience Matters in Uncertain Markets

It’s easy to feel unsettled when news headlines are dominated by uncertainty, from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East to shifts in US policy or the echoes of global events like Covid. History shows, though, that market volatility is usually temporary.

The key to navigating it isn’t trying to predict the next peak or dip, but staying invested over the long term, a principle we often refer to as ‘time in’ rather than ‘timing’.

Why trying to time the market rarely works

Trying to time the market is a gamble, even for seasoned investors. Markets can react unpredictably, and short-term moves rarely influence long-term outcomes. By contrast, staying invested allows your plan to benefit from growth and compounding over time, even when the road is bumpy.

Looking back, markets have recovered from crises as far back as the Great Depression, through the 2008 financial crash, and more recently the Covid-induced downturn.

The value of trusted advice

Uncertainty is exactly the kind of moment when good financial advice matters. A trusted adviser can help you stay focused on your long-term goals, review your protection planning, and take practical steps like tax planning.

At Stringer Mann Chartered Financial Planners, we support our clients through these periods, building plans that adapt as life and markets change.

Experience, recognition, and client relationships

Our approach is backed by experience and recognition. Robert Stringer has once again been named as a VouchedFor Top Rated Financial Adviser, appearing for the fifth consecutive year in The Times (out 21 March) and later in The Telegraph (end of June).

And feedback like this from a long-standing client reminds us why relationships matter.

RF March 2026:

“First class financial advice and planning from Richard Mann at Stringer Mann.

I rely greatly on his advice and financial planning for myself and my family, thank you Richard and team. Stringer Mann is Partner Practice under the St. James's Place umbrella and I have relied on his support and advice for over 25 years with regular updates to ensure my plans are on track and adjusted as life changes course over the years. 

Very strong ‘recommend’ rating for Stringer Mann”

For more perspective on current markets, you may find the latest insights from St. James's Place useful. You can sign up to receive daily investment updates or the WeekWatch, summarising the week’s key news via our E-Briefing Service, which also delivers updates on tax, budgets, market and economic news, as well as expert guidance on investment and retirement planning. You can easily manage your preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

In times like these, remember that patience, consistency, and trusted guidance have historically rewarded those who stay the course. Time in the market really does matter.

If you would like to chat to us about the current geopolitical volatility within the markets or indeed discuss your financial situation in advance of tax year end on Sunday 5 April, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.