Suze Orman Talks Market Meltdown: 8 Responses to Bearish Signals

Personal finance icon Suze Orman has a message for everyone stressing out about the market.

“I want you to breathe,” Orman wrote. Even with an economic downturn, “markets will eventually recover. But not all at once.”

With markets experiencing significant volatility due to international tariff tensions, Orman offers timely guidance on how investors should respond.

Times like these highlight the importance of having professional guidance through turbulent markets, especially if you’ve built significant savings over the years.

Pro Tip: If you have over $150,000 in investments, consider talking to a professional financial advisor. WiserAdvisor is a free service that will match you with a pro in your area.

1. Look into refinancing opportunities

With the 10-year Treasury yield falling below 4% (approximately 3.8% at publish date), mortgage rates may also trend lower — since they often move in the same direction. Orman suggests homeowners consider refinancing “sooner than later” to lock in a potentially better rate before markets shift again.

One reason Treasury yields are dropping is a weaker economic outlook. That downward pressure can create refinancing opportunities for homeowners still carrying higher-interest mortgages, especially before lenders adjust rates upward again.

Pro Tip: Americans have $30 trillion in untapped home equity, yet most can’t access it without taking on debt. Hometap lets you unlock up to $600K of your wealth without monthly payments or personal liability.

2. Don’t “bottom fish”

Orman strongly cautions against aggressive buying during this market downturn, warning investors not to try “bottom fishing.”

While dollar-cost averaging remains a viable strategy, she recommends doing so with “seriously tiny amounts” only. The market’s rapid decline means there will be plenty of time to enter positions as conditions stabilize.

During such uncertain times, diversifying beyond traditional stocks and bonds can help protect your portfolio.

Pro Tip: Slash expenses on dining, travel, eyeglasses, prescriptions and more with AARP — Just $15/year with auto-renewal. Join now and save hundreds.

3. Focus on dividend-paying stocks

Dividend stocks can help stabilize your portfolio during market turbulence.
Orman revealed her dividend-focused holdings were down only 0.5% year-to-date at the time of recording, significantly outperforming major indexes.

She mentioned that companies like AT&T and Verizon have “held up pretty well” during the recent volatility while continuing to provide income through dividends.

Alternative investment platforms have made it easier for those interested in expanding their investment horizons beyond traditional stocks to diversify with minimal capital.

Pro Tip: Gold can offer a strong defense against economic downturns. If you’re concerned about inflation or market shocks, consider safeguarding your savings by opening a gold IRA.

4. Hold steady and avoid emotional selling

When volatility is this high, Orman notes that “fear is overwhelming logic.” Historically, such an extreme fearful sentiment indicates it’s not the time to sell.

Markets may experience temporary bounces even within downtrends, but reacting emotionally to these movements typically leads to poor outcomes.

Remember that money invested in the market should be funds you don’t need for at least five years.

Pro Tip: If you have over $150,000 in savings, consider talking to a professional financial advisor. Zoe Financial is a free service that will match you with a pro in your area.

5. Continue retirement account contributions

“If you are contributing to a retirement account, especially an employer retirement account, I am begging you not to stop your monthly contributions,” Orman emphasizes. Consistency remains your “power” and “secret weapon” during market volatility.

This advice is crucial for investors who want to grow their money over longer time horizons of 5, 10, or 15+ years.

Regular contributions allow you to buy shares at lower prices, potentially benefiting your portfolio over the long term.

Pro Tip: Waiting on retirement saving? Every year costs you. Start today with matched contributions and watch your money grow! Sign up for a SoFi IRA and take advantage of compounding interest so you can retire comfortably. The longer you wait, the less you’ll earn. Get started today.

6. Consider gold as a safe haven

While many alternative investments have faltered during this market downturn, gold has proven its worth as a traditional safe haven.

Unlike cryptocurrency, which hasn’t maintained its value well during this particular period of market stress, gold continues to demonstrate its historical role as a hedge against uncertainty and currency weakness.

Pro Tip: Gold can offer a strong defense against economic downturns. If you’re concerned about inflation or market shocks, consider safeguarding your savings by opening a gold IRA.

7. Reconsider European travel plans

Orman points out that the dollar is currently weak, making international travel, especially to Europe, more expensive than usual.

“If you’re thinking about traveling to Europe or doing things like that, now is not the time,” she advises.

Currency fluctuations can significantly impact vacation budgets, and waiting for more favorable exchange rates could save considerable money on international trips.

Pro Tip: Travel insurance is a must to protect that expensive vacation. Here's a list of the top travel insurers.

8. Consider Roth conversions now

Market downturns present a strategic opportunity for Roth conversions.

Since you pay taxes on the amount converted based on its current value, converting traditional retirement accounts to Roth accounts during market lows can mean paying less in taxes.

Consider gradually implementing this strategy, converting small amounts to take advantage of depressed asset prices.

This type of tax strategy is one area where professional guidance can be particularly valuable.

Pro Tip: If you’ve got more than $100,000 in savings, get some advice from a pro. SmartAsset offers a free service that matches you to a vetted, fiduciary advisor in less than 5 minutes.

Stay courageous, not fearful

Taking the right actions from “a place of courage, not fear” and “a place of power, not weakness” can help your money grow during challenging times.

Orman encourages investors to approach the current market situation one day at a time while maintaining both financial discipline and emotional resilience.

By following these strategic recommendations and avoiding panic-driven decisions, investors can navigate this turbulent period while positioning themselves for eventual recovery.

Pro Tip: Need cash, debt relief, or help funding a major expense? Find the best options tailored to your needs — fast, easy, and secure. Explore financial solutions here.