How Sequence of Returns Risk Impacts Millennial and Gen Z Investors

Planning for the future is more complex than ever for Millennials and Gen Z. These younger generations face economic uncertainty, student debt, and ever-evolving financial markets. But amidst these challenges, one underappreciated threat stands out: sequence of returns risk. Ignoring this risk could undermine your ability to build lasting wealth.

In this guide, we’ll break down what sequence of returns risk is, why it’s especially relevant to Millennials and Gen Z, and how to mitigate it using smart, flexible financial strategies.

What Is Sequence of Returns Risk?

At its core, sequence of returns risk refers to the impact of the order in which investment returns occur over time. Even if two investors experience the same average annual return, the timing of gains and losses can dramatically impact their financial outcomes—especially when withdrawals or early losses come into play.

Here’s How It Works:

  • If an investor experiences losses early in their financial journey, it may take years—if not decades—for their portfolio to recover.
  • Withdrawals during market downturns lock in losses, leaving less capital to grow when markets rebound.
  • Even younger investors who aren’t yet retired can suffer if volatile markets force them to sell investments early to cover emergencies.

The effects of sequence of returns risk are compounded when paired with market volatility, which Millennials and Gen Z investors are already navigating.

Why Millennials and Gen Z Are Especially Vulnerable

While sequence of returns risk is typically associated with retirees, it’s also a significant threat to younger investors. Here’s why:

Market Volatility

The stock market is often presented as a cornerstone of wealth-building. However, its unpredictable nature can create unique challenges for younger generations:

Economic Pressures

Millennials and Gen Z face unique financial headwinds:

These factors make it critical for younger investors to adopt strategies that reduce risk and provide stability while still allowing for growth.

Traditional Strategies and Their Limitations

Many financial advisors recommend “set it and forget it” strategies such as dollar-cost averaging and broad diversification. While these approaches have their merits, they don’t address sequence of returns risk:

  • Illiquidity: Market-based investments often lack accessible liquidity. Selling during a downturn can create long-term damage.
  • Over-Reliance on Growth: Many portfolios prioritize growth over stability, leaving investors vulnerable to downturns.

To truly protect against sequence of returns risk, younger investors need alternative strategies.

Mitigating Sequence of Returns Risk with Innovative Strategies

Millennials and Gen Z can take control by leveraging collateral-backed investments and guaranteed growth mechanisms. Here’s how:

The Power of Collateral-Backed Investments

Collateral-backed investments reduce risk by ensuring growth regardless of market conditions. Examples include:

These tools allow investors to access liquidity when needed without disrupting the growth of their core investments.

Why Cash Value Life Insurance Stands Out

Cash value life insurance offers a unique blend of stability, growth, and flexibility:

  • Guaranteed Growth: Cash value grows tax-deferred and isn’t subject to market fluctuations.
  • Liquidity: Policy loans allow access to funds without selling assets or incurring penalties.
  • Dual Purpose: Provides both a death benefit and a growing cash reserve.

How Alternative Strategies Outperform Traditional Investments

Let’s compare traditional market-based investments with alternative strategies like cash value life insurance:

Traditional Investments Alternative Strategies
Withdrawals reduce future growth potential. Policy loans allow liquidity without reducing growth.
Market volatility can erode portfolio value. Guaranteed returns unaffected by market conditions.
Accessing funds often incurs penalties or taxes. Tax-free access to cash value provides flexibility.

A New Financial Paradigm for Millennials and Gen Z

By embracing alternative sequence of returns risk mitigation strategies, Millennials and Gen Z investors can:

Early Adoption Creates Long-Term Benefits

Younger investors who integrate these strategies early can maximize compounding growth and reduce financial stress over time.

Real-Life Example: Navigating a Market Downturn

Let’s revisit Sarah’s situation: She initially invests $50,000 and allows her portfolios to grow.

  1. Market-Based Portfolio: With an average 8% annual return but volatile performance.
  2. Guaranteed Strategy: Offers a steady 8% annual return without market exposure.

Here’s how sequence of returns risk affects her investments over six years.

 

Year Market Portfolio (Volatile) Guaranteed Strategy
1 +12% +8%
2 -10% +8%
3 +15% +8%
4 -5% +8%
5 +8% +8%
6 -12% +8%

Results After Six Years: Keep in mind, both portfolios had an average annual return of 8%

  • Market Portfolio Balance: $52,330.92
  • Guaranteed Strategy Balance: $73,466.40

Key Takeaways:

  1. Market Volatility Erodes Growth: Despite the same average return, the market portfolio’s ups and downs diminish overall gains.
  2. Consistency Wins: The guaranteed 8% return strategy leverages uninterrupted compounding, outperforming the volatile

Take Control of Your Financial Future

For Millennials and Gen Z, traditional approaches aren’t enough to combat sequence of returns risk. By leveraging innovative, collateral-backed strategies, you can build wealth with confidence and flexibility.

Ready to protect your financial future? Contact Sure Wealth Solutions today for a personalized consultation. Let’s design a plan that works for you—no matter what the markets do.