Why Sequence-of-Returns Risk Worries Early Retirees
Sequence-of-returns risk describes how early retirement outcomes depend on the order of investment gains and losses. This matters for people drawing from a portfolio while markets swing, because withdrawals during downturns permanently reduce future growth. This article explains the mechanism behind the risk, common planning mistakes, and practical steps to stress-test retirement cash flow. You’ll learn how to interpret scenarios, choose withdrawal approaches, and set monitoring habits that match real market behavior.