Is it different this time? What the current market crisis means for your investments
08 April 2026
Question by Boring Money reader
Age-old question asked during every market crisis: "Is it different this time?" Particularly from a close-to-retirement point of view. We agree with your response to your old friend, of course — but what about new investments? (We know you don't have a crystal ball.) Are markets and the Western world actually too complacent? The long-tail impact of the war is likely serious, even if it stops soon. The global political power balance has changed enormously from earlier generations. Technological change may unsettle many companies and economies — but who will adapt? The US bullying and abandoning the rest of the West. China coming out on top feels inevitable given time. So many questions, so much indecision.
Answered by Holly Mackay
It feels to me as though markets have been a little complacent about what has played out on the global stage. I agree that the ripples will be felt for a long time to come, and geopolitics feel very dangerous and fluid. One boring answer — without a crystal ball — is to fall back on a good old global tracker.
You will never be ahead of the curve, but as one country or sector falls, your exposure to it will naturally reduce, and those who adapt will rise — as will your exposure to them. If you want something a little more exciting, you might consider some regional exposure. Japan is enjoying a resurgence after decades in the doldrums. And of course the longer-term theme of technology and AI hasn't gone away.
