In this edition of The Motley Fool's "Ask a Fool" series, Motley Fool analysts Jason Moser and Brendan Mathews take a question from a reader who asks: "I believe the collapse of the economy is on the horizon. Any ideas on how to protect my assets in our soon-to-be collapsing economy?”
To start, neither Jason nor Brendan endorse the premise that the economy is soon to collapse. Both believe that the near-term future of the economy and the stock market are too uncertain to predict. That said, both agree that it's important to ensure that you're not investing money in stocks that you'll need within three to five years. Further, Brendan points out that it's important to be invested in quality businesses -- those with strong balance sheets and the ability to thrive in a variety of market conditions.
Finally, Brendan points out that if you can hold on long enough, you're more likely to do well in the stock market. During the past 20 years, we've experienced multiple recessions and stock market meltdowns; but, overall, the market has generated 9% annual returns for those who simply held through good times and bad.
