Blog

Tip #11 - How to handle a share market downturn

by Tony Ryburn, Executive Chairman, Sharesight | Jul 23rd 2013

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

Tip# 11 -- How to handle a share market downturn

If the share market crashes there are two important rules to follow. Rule 1. DON’T PANIC. Rule 2. If you do panic, refer to Rule 1.

You know in advance downturns will happen from time to time just as you know that in the long run shares are likely to give you the best return – see Tip #1.

If the share market takes a tumble you have made a paper loss; not a real one. Ask yourself if you know a better place (under the bed?) to put your money than in the share market – especially when it is at low point! As long as you don’t bail out you won’t crystallise a loss and you are guaranteed to participate 100% in the inevitable bounce back! See here for other points to ponder before you sell out of the share market.

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.