If you’ve checked the news lately, you’ve likely seen headlines like:

Stocks fall, oil prices rise on darkening economic outlook from Middle East war [1]

The tone feels serious. And when markets pull back at the same time, it’s easy to feel like something bigger is happening.

As of late March, markets are down about nine percent from recent highs. That can feel significant. [2]

This Part Is Normal

But declines like this are actually common.

Markets regularly experience pullbacks. Sometimes they’re tied to economic data, sometimes interest rates, and sometimes conflict and oil. The cause changes, but the pattern doesn’t.

We’ve seen oil shocks and geopolitical events many times before. Each one feels different in the moment because the headlines are different. But markets have a long history of working through them.

Pullbacks are not unusual. Recoveries aren’t either. This isn’t new—it just feels new.

And that matters, because when something feels new, the instinct is to react.

Purpose of Your Plan

Your plan was never built for calm markets. It was built with periods like this in mind. Times when uncertainty rises, headlines are louder, and emotions start to pull at decisions.

What matters now isn’t the headlines. It’s staying aligned with your long-term goals and continuing to follow a disciplined approach. Moments like this are not a reason to change the plan. They are exactly why the plan exists.

If headlines have you questioning your plan, reach out and let’s talk about it.

The Hatlestad Group is an independent wealth management firm based in Edina, Minnesota, primarily serving successful head-of-household women, late-career executives, and pre-retirees. With a tailored approach to fee-only comprehensive wealth management, they empower clients to live out their next chapter with vision, wisdom, and resources, creating a purposeful and meaningful future. They can be reached by phone at (763) 259-3637, via email at info@thehatlestadgroup.com, or by visiting their website at thehatlestadgroup.com.

[1] Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/global-markets-global-markets-2026-03-27/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

[2] S&P 500 Index performance calculated from Jan 27, 2026 through March 27, 2026. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index is a capitalization weighted index of 500 stocks designed to measure performance of the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks representing all major industries. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation or advice. Investments and strategies mentioned are not suitable for all investors. This does not constitute a recommendation or a solicitation or offer of the purchase or sale of securities. The views and opinions expressed are subject to change without notice. No one can predict or project performance, and forward-looking statements are not guarantees. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss.

The information presented is based on sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of publication. This material is for educational purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of the author, presenter, or affiliated organizations. It should not be construed as investment, tax, legal, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation before making any decisions.