Why Your Retirement Needs a Volatility Buffer in 2026

Retirement is about income, not just returns. As you approach the "red zone" of retirement—the five years before and after you stop working—market volatility becomes your greatest enemy. A single 20% drop early in retirement can permanently damage your portfolio's sustainability.

This is why many pre-retirees are shifting their strategy from "accumulation" to guaranteed lifetime income. By utilizing a Fixed Index Annuity (FIA), you can create a Permanent Income Floor that acts as a safe harbor for your core lifestyle expenses.

The Three Major Benefits of a Safe Money Strategy:

• The 0% Floor: You participate in market gains when the index goes up, but your principal is contractually protected with a 0% floor when the market drops.

• AUM Fee Alternative: Unlike traditional wealth management, these strategies do not charge a 1% annual AUM fee to manage your safe money. Your principal stays your principal.

• Income You Can't Outlive: By adding a lifetime income rider, you ensure a monthly paycheck that continues for as long as you live, regardless of market performance or how long you live.

Next Step: Are you ready to stop worrying about market news? Ready to see if a "Volatility Buffer" is the missing piece of your retirement plan? Here is my calendar link