Guide section
Why the order of returns matters
When you are still contributing, weak markets can actually help future returns because you are buying at lower prices.
Once you start withdrawing, the opposite can happen. Early losses combined with withdrawals may leave less capital available to recover later.
Guide section
What to do with that insight
Sequence risk does not mean retirement is impossible. It means that withdrawal plans benefit from margin, flexibility, and scenario testing.
A slightly lower starting withdrawal or more adjustable spending can materially improve resilience.
Bottom line
Where this guide should leave you
The best use of sequence risk is not fear. It is better planning around flexibility, buffers, and realistic income assumptions.
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