Stay the course and you may reap the benefits

Your retirement plan is a long-term investment, and what we are experiencing is a short-term fluctuation in prices. The past is a good indicator that markets move up and down, and when the market is down, it has proven to be a good buying opportunity.

Think of these stocks that are trading lower as being on sale. You may have heard "buy low and sell high." That strategy helps investors make money over the long term. If you continue to invest regularly, you may benefit.¹

In the big picture, investing is a long game with potential to win. In 80 percent of all the years since World War II, the S&P 500 - the widely-used investment benchmark -- has experienced a positive 12-month total return.²

Diversify your portfolio

Diversifying your portfolio is one way to help steer clear of the extreme highs and lows of the market because your money is distributed among different investment types. There are no guarantees, but diversification may provide better returns with less risk over time. Consider an automatic investing solution and pre-mixed portfolio offered by your plan.

Always consider your time horizon

Again, remember that your retirement plan is a long-term investment. As retirement age nears, most investors shift their money into more conservative investments. Younger investors have more time to invest and overcome market losses. Think about how many years you have until retirement before you make any changes to your account.

¹ WMAR News, Shrinking economy raises 401(K) concerns, May 10, 2022
² VOX.com, The stock market's panicking, but you don't have to, May 11, 2022

This material represents an assessment of the market environment at a specific point in time and is not intended to be a forecast of future events, or a guarantee of future results. This information should not be relied upon by the reader as research or investment advice regarding any funds or stocks in particular, nor should it be construed as a recommendation to purchase or sell a security. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investments will fluctuate and when redeemed may be worth more or less than when originally invested.

The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 stocks that is generally representative of the performance of larger companies in the U.S. Please note an investor cannot invest directly in an index.

Neither asset allocation nor diversification guarantee against loss. They are methods used to manage risk.

This is a general communication for informational and educational purposes. The information is not designed, or intended, to be applicable to any person's individual circumstances. It should not be considered investment advice, nor does it constitute a recommendation that anyone engage in (or refrain from) a particular course of action. If you are seeking investment advice or recommendations, please contact your financial professional.

Securian Financial's qualified retirement plan products are offered through a group variable annuity contract issued by Minnesota Life Insurance Company.

Securian Financial is the marketing name for Securian Financial Group, Inc., and its subsidiaries. Minnesota Life Insurance Company is a subsidiary of Securian Financial Group, Inc.

DOFU 5-2022

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