August 14, 2025
Global conflict has always had the power to shake financial markets and stir anxiety among investors. For everyday families, headlines about war or political unrest can create a strong impulse to “do something” with their investments—often meaning pulling money out of the market. But history tells us a different story.
According to financial advisors quoted in InvestmentNews, market turbulence tied to conflict often creates opportunity for disciplined, long-term investors. This principle—often summarized as “buy on the cannons, sell on the trumpets”—reminds us that fear-driven selling can lock in losses, while patient investing can lead to long-term gains.
At UNest, we believe that even in times of uncertainty, families can thrive financially by focusing on what they can control: consistency, diversification, and long-term planning.
1. Stay the Course: History Rewards Patience
Looking back over decades of market data, geopolitical shocks—from wars to political upheavals—often cause short-term volatility but rarely derail long-term growth trends. For example, while the S&P 500 may drop sharply in the early days of a crisis, it has historically rebounded once uncertainty subsides.
For families saving for a child’s future, these fluctuations are part of the journey—not the end of it. By sticking to a consistent investment plan, you allow compounding returns to work in your favor over years, not days. UNest’s automated contributions make it easier to stay disciplined, so you don’t have to second-guess your moves every time the news cycle turns grim.
2. Diversify for Peace of Mind
A diversified portfolio is one of the best defenses against the unexpected. By spreading investments across asset classes, industries, and geographies, you reduce the impact of any single event—whether it’s a war in one region or a downturn in one sector.
UNest’s portfolios are built with diversification in mind. Whether your comfort level is conservative, moderate, or growth-oriented, our options are designed to align with your family’s financial goals and risk tolerance. This means you can keep moving toward your objectives without overexposure to any single market shock.
3. Emotions Are the Enemy—Discipline Is the Ally
During global unrest, fear can drive quick, emotionally charged decisions. The problem? These choices often undermine long-term success. Selling investments in a panic can turn temporary market dips into permanent losses.
One way to counter this is through automation. UNest’s set-it-and-forget-it approach keeps contributions flowing even when the market feels unstable, reducing the temptation to time the market—something even professional investors rarely do well.
4. Teach Your Kids the Value of Resilience
Financial education doesn’t just happen in classrooms—it happens at the dinner table, during car rides, and in the way we respond to real-world events. When your kids see you continuing to save and invest during uncertain times, you’re showing them what resilience looks like.
UNest accounts can be a powerful teaching tool. By involving your children in setting goals and tracking their account’s growth, you help them understand that financial success isn’t about avoiding risk entirely—it’s about managing it wisely and staying focused on the long game.
5. Understand the “Cannon and Trumpet” Analogy
The saying “buy on the cannons, sell on the trumpets” comes from centuries-old market wisdom. Cannons symbolize the early stages of conflict, when fear is high and prices are often depressed. Trumpets mark the end of war, when relief rallies can create inflated valuations.
In practical terms, it means the best buying opportunities often occur when others are selling out of fear. While this doesn’t mean rushing into every downturn, it does reinforce the value of sticking to your plan and adding to your investments when quality assets are trading at a discount.
6. Why UNest Is Built for All Seasons—Good or Bad
UNest accounts aren’t just about investing—they’re about empowering families to prepare for any future. Whether you’re saving for education, a first car, a down payment, or even your child’s entrepreneurial dreams, your plan should be resilient enough to weather market storms.
By offering tax-advantaged accounts, diversified portfolios, and automated contributions, UNest gives families a practical way to stay invested without having to constantly monitor the market. And because UTMAs are more flexible than 529 plans, you can adapt to changing goals—even if the world changes around you.
7. Turning Uncertainty Into Opportunity
The truth is, markets have survived wars, recessions, pandemics, and political crises—and still delivered long-term growth. While no strategy can eliminate risk, a thoughtful, disciplined approach can transform today’s uncertainty into tomorrow’s opportunity.
For families, the lesson is clear:
- Focus on what you can control—your savings rate, diversification, and time horizon.
- Avoid making big decisions based solely on fear.
- Use tools like UNest to keep your plan on track automatically.
In times of global unrest, it’s tempting to step back. But for those committed to their long-term goals, this can be the moment to lean in.
Final Thought:
Market downturns—while unsettling—are not the end of your financial story. With a clear plan, disciplined investing, and the right tools, your family can navigate uncertainty and emerge stronger on the other side.
Start a resilient savings plan today with UNest.
