Blog

Tip #12 - How NOT to handle a share market downturn

by Tony Ryburn, Executive Chairman, Sharesight | Jul 30th 2013

Every week we post a tip that we hope will help you become a successful share market investor.

Tip #12 — How NOT to handle a share market downturn

First, dither around for some considerable time trying to decide if the price falls are short-term and will quickly bounce back or the start of a serious price slide. Second, once it is clear that this is serious, sell up after most of the damage has been done and take a bath. Third, watch the market recover while you try to decide if this is a minor price spike or an ongoing recovery. Finally, once it is clear it is a sustained recovery and you have missed most of the gains, reinvest your remaining funds and wait for the next price fall.

This information is not a recommendation nor a statement of opinion. You should consult an independent financial adviser before making any decisions with respect to your shares in relation to the information that is presented in this article.

FURTHER READING

Active vs passive investing

Active vs. passive investing

by Stephanie Stefanovic | Aug 5th 2026

What are the differences between active and passive investing, and does one offer a higher guarantee of success than the other? Keep reading to learn more.

Sharesight multi asset tracker

Why Sharesight is the best multi-asset portfolio tracker

by Stephanie Stefanovic | Aug 1st 2026

We explore how Sharesight helps you stay on top of your portfolio, optimise your performance and set yourself up for a successful year of investing.

Family office taxes

Why tax time is so painful for family offices — and what to do about it

by Stephanie Stefanovic | Jul 28th 2026

We discuss five reasons tax time hits family offices harder than it should, and what better infrastructure looks like in each case.