**
In highly volatile financial markets, defense rather than prediction is key. You must build a portfolio that does not wobble by clearly dividing the role of each asset—stocks, bonds, currency, and cash—and investing with diversified holdings and purchasing strategies. Understanding each asset’s characteristics and risk level is more important than simply looking at market direction.

Bonds provide steady returns while remaining relatively stable. Their yield fluctuates with interest‑rate changes, but in the long term, bonds act as a bridge between cash and currency. Currency is a liquid asset that moves readily; cash is the most basic asset that minimizes short‑term volatility. By allocating these four appropriately, a portfolio that responds to volatility can be completed.

Stocks are more about “how” than “what” they are. When a stock market heats up, investors get anxious. Investing when prices have already risen a lot feels burdensome, and waiting may seem like you’re buying higher. Conversely, if the market cools down, it seems likely to fall further, making it hard to buy. Therefore, to increase returns while dispersing risk, you must readjust the weight of each asset and continually monitor the portfolio.

The content is a copyrighted work of The Korea Economic Daily; unauthorized reproduction, duplication, distribution, capturing, AI training use or commercial use are prohibited. Unauthorized acts may result in service restrictions and civil liability under law.