Antoine Bouvy
24 Apr 2025
Investing in ETFs during a crisis: wise strategy or risky gamble?
When financial markets turn red, investor anxiety rises. The big question arises: Is it wise to continue investing in ETFs during a crisis, or does this increase your risk? This article analyzes how a recession impacts ETFs and how to invest wisely during uncertain times.
What are ETFs?
ETF stands for Exchange-Traded Fund, a type of investment fund that tracks the performance of an underlying index, sector, or asset class. ETFs are popular among investors because of their simplicity and low-cost structure. Key Characteristics of ETFs are
- Diversification
With a single purchase, you gain exposure to a wide range of assets, such as the entire S&P 500 or MSCI World Index. This lowers the risk that one poorly performing stock will drag down your whole portfolio. - Low Costs
Because ETFs are passively managed (they simply follow an index), management fees are significantly lower than actively managed funds. Over time, this cost difference can have a major impact on your returns. - Transparency and Simplicity
You know exactly what you’re investing in. ETFs disclose their underlying holdings daily—unlike many traditional mutual funds, which may lack this level of transparency. - Flexible Trading
Unlike traditional funds, which are priced only once per day, ETFs can be bought and sold throughout the trading day like stocks.
How do ETFs react during a crisis or recession?
Financial crises or recessions often lead to sharp declines in the markets. Since ETFs track indices, they are not immune to these downturns. Typical ETF Behavior in turbulent times can be:
- Market volatility
ETF prices tend to fall in tandem with the markets. For example, a global ETF will drop when global equities fall. This kind of volatility is normal but can be unsettling for inexperienced investors. - Price deviations (NAV Mismatch)
In periods of extreme volatility, an ETF’s market price may deviate from the true value of its underlying assets. This deviation is known as a "premium" or "discount" relative to the Net Asset Value (NAV). - Liquidity risks
Especially with sector or thematic ETFs that trade less frequently, it may become harder to find buyers or sellers during a crisis. This can lead to wider spreads and unexpected trading costs.
Why ETFs can still be valuable in a crisis
Investing in ETFs during a crisis doesn’t have to be reckless. For long-term investors, crises often present a buying opportunity.
- Long-term focus
Historically, markets have always recovered from crises. Major indices like the S&P 500 have rebounded time and again—often within a few years. Investing or staying invested during a downturn allows you to take advantage of lower prices. This is known as contrarian investing—buying when others are panicking. - Diversification as a shield
ETFs are ideal for spreading risk across:- Sectors: Technology, healthcare, energy, etc.
- Regions: U.S., Europe, emerging markets
- Market Caps: Large, mid, and small-cap companies
- Invest gradually using DCA
Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA) is a strategy where you invest a fixed amount at regular intervals (e.g., monthly). This reduces the risk of investing everything at a market peak. Sometimes you buy high, sometimes low—but on average, you get a fair price.DCA benefits:
- Reduces emotional decisions
- Creates investment discipline
- Makes investing accessible, even with small amounts
Risks of ETF investing during a crisis
While ETFs are reliable instruments, market risks persist. Understanding these risks helps you manage them effectively.
- Temporary losses
It’s not uncommon for a global ETF to drop temporarily 20% or more during a severe crisis. These losses are only on paper, unless you sell. Selling at a low locks in losses and prevents you from participating in the recovery. Key Principle: Losses are temporary—if you stay invested. - Emotional pressure and impulse reactions
Even seasoned investors can lose sleep over falling portfolios. Human brains are wired for loss aversion, losses feel more painful than equivalent gains feel good. Avoid the following behavioral pitfalls during crises:- Panic selling
- Shifting to “safe” assets at the wrong time
- Waiting endlessly for the “perfect” moment that never arrives
- Be cautious with niche ETFs
Sector or “thematic” ETFs (e.g., AI, blockchain, biotech) can be hit harder during crises. They lack the diversification of broader ETFs and often have lower liquidity.To invest in ETFs during a crisis, favor globally diversified and liquid funds.
How to invest wisely in ETFs during a crisis or recession
A solid plan shields you from panic and helps avoid costly long-term mistakes.
- Choose broad market ETFs
Consider ETFs like:- MSCI World: Exposure to 1,600+ global companies
- S&P 500: The 500 largest U.S. companies
- Vanguard FTSE All-World: Broad exposure, including emerging markets
- Automate your investments
Platforms like Easyvest offer automated monthly investments. This removes the temptation to time the market and facilitates DCA. Just set your investment amount, then the system handles the rest, even during market crashes. - Align with your risk profile
Crises are a good time to review your portfolio:- Are you overexposed to risk for your age or goals?
- Can you handle a 30% loss without panicking?
- Would a more defensive approach bring peace of mind?
- Stay in the market
Investing is a marathon, not a sprint. Exiting during a downturn is rarely wise. Statistics show that those who temporarily exit often miss the market’s best days—hurting long-term returns.Strategy Comparison Table:
Strategy Risk Potential Benefit Best For Lump-Sum Investment High Max gains during recovery Experienced investors Dollar Cost Averaging Moderate Average entry prices Beginners or cautious investors Fully Exiting Market High Temporary calm, but risky Not recommended Buy & Hold Volatile Historically high returns Long-term investors
What history tells us
History shows that markets rebound. Major indices have weathered many crises—and emerged stronger.
Examples:
- 2008: After the crash, the S&P 500 dropped over 50%, but by 2013 it had recovered—and doubled.
- 2020: COVID caused a 35% drop; markets fully recovered within 6 months.
- 2022: Inflation and the Ukraine war caused a downturn, but sectors like energy and commodities thrived.
Bottom line: Crises pass. Patient investors are almost always rewarded.
Practical tips for investing in uincertain times
- Only invest money you don’t need in the short term
- Stick to a clear investment plan—don’t get swayed by headlines
- Avoid impulsive moves, automate where possible
- Focus on cost and liquidity, choose ETFs with low fees and high volume
- Seek guidance if unsure. Our Wealth Managers help you stay objective
Conclusion: ETF investing during a crisis? It can be smart, with the right plan
Investing in ETFs during a recession or market crash involves risks, but also offers opportunities. By staying focused on the long term, investing broadly, and eliminating emotion through a disciplined approach like DCA, you can emerge stronger from a downturn.
The key? Don’t run from the markets. Keep investing with discipline, knowledge, and, if needed, professional guidance.
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