“Sit tight” vs adding new money
Why “sitting tight” on your holdings doesn’t necessarily mean holding back new money
Following a recent message about staying invested through periods of volatility, I had a follow up conversation with one of my clients. One question in particular stood out — and it’s worth sharing more widely:
“If we’re sitting tight and not withdrawing, should we also be holding off from adding?”
It’s a fair and honest dilemma. When headlines are loud and prices feel shaky, the idea of investing more can feel counterintuitive — even uncomfortable.
But here’s how I see it…
The “sit tight” philosophy and market timing
The “sit tight” philosophy applies to long-term holdings — not to market timing. Holding back from investing just because prices are down is still a form of market timing — just in reverse. You’re essentially waiting for things to feel better or safer, and that’s rarely when prices are at their most attractive.
In fact, history shows us that some of the best long-term entry points have appeared at moments of uncertainty, discomfort, and even panic. And yes — that includes now.
Thinking about currency
On the currency front, things are a little more mechanical. If you’ve got dollar-based cash in an interest-bearing account and the current conversion rate doesn’t sit right with you, there’s no harm in holding that back for a short time.
But I wouldn’t delay investing indefinitely while trying to guess when the pound will fall or the dollar will rise. Timing currencies — like timing markets — is a slippery slope.
Getting long-term money working
So where does that leave us?
If you’ve got money earmarked for long-term growth in say ISAs, pensions, or in a general investment account — then (on balance) I’d look to get it working.
Drip-feeding it in can help smooth the emotional ride, but don’t let temporary noise disrupt long-term compounding. Especially when markets are off their highs — you’re buying quality assets on discount.
And if you’re worried about currency drag, remember that discounted asset prices and ongoing dividend flows can help counterbalance currency friction over time.
If this resonates, or you’d like to run through your own situation, just reply. I’m always happy to chat directly and help.
Originally Penned on 25 April 2025
Martin Wilcocks is an independent financial, investment, and estate adviser, and the bestselling author of Bulletproof Retirement. He has been featured in The Times, The Telegraph, and The Mail on Sunday. Wilcocks & Wilcocks, Martin Wilcocks and Bulletproof Retirement are trading styles of Wilcocks & Associates Ltd, a company registered in England & Wales (No. 06805421) and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 501064 to conduct investment advisory business. Past performance is not indicative of future results and the value of any investment may go down as well as up. Please note that information shared in weekly mailings is for educational and illustrative purposes only and should not be taken as personal investment advice. For tailored advice, please respond to this note or book a non cost consultation. Offices: 5th Floor, Horton House, Exchange Flags, Liverpool. L2 3PF and 239 Kensington High Street, London. W8 6SN. Telephone: 0345 200 4041. In compliance with MiFID II and FCA regulations, all telephone calls are now logged and recorded.
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