Sequence of Returns Risk Guide

Understand how the order of market returns can change retirement outcomes even with similar average returns.

Sequence of returns risk

When you're withdrawing from your portfolio, the order and timing of market returns matters as much as the average return. Withdrawing during market downturns forces you to sell shares at lower prices, permanently reducing your wealth compared to favorable return sequences. Test your plan against adverse scenarios where market downturns align with your income needs—not just average-case assumptions.