Stock market-wise, I wish we were back in July 2008. At that time, a 1% swing in the market was an anomaly. Today, it’s the norm. And even though we’ve seen volatility calm down somewhat in recent weeks, don’t be fooled. As we enter another earnings season, we’ll see volatility pick up again. So what are you going to do?

The stock market is a volatile, unforgiving beast. Now more than ever. The current rally aside, it’s eating many investors’ portfolios alive – and may well do so again in the near future. The question is, though… has this hurt you or actually helped you? 

We are in the midst of the worst economy in decades. Corporate earnings are falling. Unemployment is rising. And there looks to be no relief in sight. While the stock market is due for a bounce (probably a big one), there is no doubt that the general trend is still down.

It’s hard to look at Peter Schiff with anything other than awe.

The investors that have been wiped out in this downturn are the ones that did not plan ahead, says Steve McDonald. Booms and busts are the nature of economic cycles. And investing only in stocks is financial suicide. Steve says to survive this crisis – and the inevitable ones that follow – investors need to diversify their portfolios and stick to tried and trusted models.

Oxford Club’s Alexander Green says making the switch from mutual funds to ETFs can save thousands in taxes and expenses. Changing funds now can also help psychologically, by locking this year’s huge losses in the past. Alex lists eight ETFs that can “help turn market lemons into lemonade.”

Martin Hutchinson analyses what a Democrat landslide means for investors. He says nuclear and clean energy stocks, auto manufacturers, generic drug producers and muni bonds are a “buy”. But fossil fuel companies and financial institutions should be avoided.