CHICAGO — There was a time not so long ago when decision-making for savers and investors was a relatively easy task.
The ultra-conservative investor who wanted to minimize risk and was satisfied with giving up potentially large gains could stick with bank CDs or money market accounts, enjoying a steady income stream while sleeping soundly at night. The younger investor with a longer window of opportunity could invest heavily in equities, relying on historical averages to assure solid growth.
It’s not that easy these days.
The investing environment underwent gut-wrenching changes with the 2008 market meltdown. The resulting market volatility introduced emotional considerations that have benefited some and caused crippling financial pain for others.
