Here Are Some Smart Short-Term Options to Consider
In times of market uncertainty, it's natural for investors to feel uneasy about locking their money away for the long haul. Whether it’s volatility in the stock market, economic headlines, or simply life circumstances that make you hesitant to invest long-term, you’re not alone.
The good news is: you don’t have to choose between doing nothing or going all-in on long-term stocks. There are short- and medium-term strategies that can keep your money working for you without the same level of risk that long-term investing might carry—especially when your confidence is low.
Let’s look at a few options:
1. High-Yield Savings Accounts
These accounts offer better interest than traditional savings accounts and still give you access to your cash when needed. While they won’t generate massive returns, they do offer a place to safely store cash while earning something in return—often 4% or more in today’s environment, according to Bankrate.
2. Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
CDs offer fixed interest rates over a set period—3 months, 6 months, or even several years. In exchange for locking in your funds, you get a predictable return. According to Nerd Wallet, current rates for 1-year CDs average between 4.5% and 5.5%, and the safety of principal is typically insured by the FDIC. These are great for short- to mid-term goals where you don’t need immediate access to the funds.1
3. Treasury Bills (T-Bills)
Backed by the U.S. government, T-bills are short-term debt obligations that typically mature in one year or less. They’re low-risk and currently offer competitive yields compared to other fixed-income products. Plus, they’re exempt from state and local income taxes.2
But What About the Long-Term? A Word on Staying Invested
If you’re avoiding the stock market altogether because of fear or short-term volatility, it’s important to remember one key truth: time in the market often beats timing the market.
Some of the most powerful days for market growth happen unexpectedly—and if you miss just a handful of the best days, your long-term returns could take a serious hit. According to research from J.P. Morgan, missing just the 10 best days in the market over a 20-year period could reduce your total return by more than 50%.
Markets don’t move in straight lines. They swing—and they often bounce back sharply after downturns. By staying invested (or at least partially invested), you give your money a chance to participate in the recovery, not just ride out the declines.
Let’s Talk About What’s Right for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all investment approach. Your timeline, risk tolerance, goals, and comfort level all matter—and they deserve a personalized strategy.
If you’re not sure where to put your money right now, or if you're curious about how short-term or more protected options complement a broader plan, let’s talk. I’m here to help you find the right balance between protecting your wealth and growing it. You don’t have to navigate this alone, start here.
1 CD rates are subject to change and availability and may be liquidated in the secondary market subject to market conditions. Generally, CDs may not be withdrawn prior to maturity. CDs are FDIC insured up to $250,000 per depositor per insured depository institution.
2Investing in the bond market is subject to certain risks including market, interest rate, issuer, credit and inflation risk.
All investments contain risk and may lose value. Data and rates used were indicative of market conditions as of the date shown. Opinions, estimates, forecasts and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. References to specific securities, asset classes and financial markets are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation to purchase or sell a security. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.