Stock market crash part 2: why I don't think it's too early to start preparing

Starting to plan for a second stock market crash may be a sound move, in my opinion. Here's how I'd prepare for it in today's market.

pile of post-it note pads with top one saying 'are you ready?'

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Despite improving investor sentiment since the 2020 stock market crash, the near-term prospects for many companies continue to be uncertain. Risks such as political challenges in Europe and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic could cause investor sentiment to come under pressure.

Furthermore, the stock market has always experienced downturns following its gains. As such, now could be the right time to start planning for a market decline through holding some cash and identifying potential buying opportunities that may become more attractively priced in the coming months.

The potential for a second stock market crash

This year's stock market crash was caused by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the world economy's outlook. Although investors may be feeling more optimistic about the economy's prospects, a number of threats could hold back its performance in the near term. For example, Brexit may mean that investors are more risk averse due to it being an unprecedented event.

Furthermore, factors such as weak consumer confidence and a lack of investment from businesses that have struggled this year could mean that economic growth remains disappointing in the near term.

Another stock market crash is also likely to be experienced at some point in future because the track record of the stock market shows that it does not experience perpetual growth. Ultimately, an event is likely to take place that causes investor sentiment to weaken in response to the prospect of more challenging operating conditions for a range of businesses. Therefore, planning for such an occurrence in advance could allow an investor to take advantage of it.

Preparing for a market downturn

Clearly, it is extremely difficult to know when a stock market crash will occur. However, taking steps such as holding additional cash could be a sound move. This may enable an investor to react more quickly and decisively to temporary market declines that can rapidly be reversed. Cash savings may offer disappointing returns at the present time due to low interest rates. However, buying undervalued stocks in a market decline may mean superior long-term growth for patient investors.

Preparing for a market downturn may also involve assessing future buying opportunities. This may mean creating a watchlist, for example, of companies that have solid financial positions and wide economic moats. Waiting for their share prices to fall in a market decline can require a large amount of patience and discipline. However, it can be worth it if an investor is able to buy high-quality companies at low prices.

Certainly, planning for a stock market crash may mean there is an opportunity cost in the short run as share prices could move higher. However, it could be a sound strategy to use over the long run, as market cycles are likely to remain in place in the coming years.

Should you invest $1,000 in Galan Lithium Limited right now?

Before you buy Galan Lithium Limited shares, consider this:

Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now... and Galan Lithium Limited wasn't one of them.

The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys...

See The 5 Stocks *Returns as of 30 April 2025

Motley Fool contributor Peter Stephens has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

Person pretends to types on laptop drawn in sand.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a happy finish to the week for ASX shares this Friday.

Read more »

Three people in a corporate office pour over a tablet, ready to invest.
Broker Notes

Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's why brokers are feeling bullish about these three shares this week.

Read more »

A mature age woman with a groovy short haircut and glasses, sits at her computer, pen in hand thinking about information she is seeing on the screen.
Share Market News

ASX shares in April: 8 key takeaways according to Macquarie

Here are eight key takeaways from April, according to a new note from the broker.

Read more »

Woman looking at a phone with stock market bars in the background.
Share Market News

Market outlook: Should I 'sell in May and go away'?

May is the time to sell... If you believe in fairytales.

Read more »

Five young people sit in a row having fun and interacting with their mobile phones.
Share Gainers

5 ASX All Ords stocks rocketing higher this week

Investors sent these five ASX All Ords stocks soaring this week. But why?

Read more »

Frustrated stock trader screaming while looking at mobile phone, symbolising a falling share price.
Share Fallers

Why Block, Corporate Travel Management, Judo, and Zip shares are sinking today

These shares are missing out on the good times on Friday. But why?

Read more »

Overjoyed man celebrating success with yes gesture after getting some good news on mobile.
Share Gainers

Why Boss Energy, Capstone, Dimerix, and Platinum shares are storming higher today

These shares are having a good finish to the week. Let's find out why.

Read more »

A shocked man holding some documents in the living room.
Broker Notes

Macquarie's take on Judo Capital shares after suddenly falling 19% yesterday?

Judo Bank was the ASX's top-performing banking stock in 2024.

Read more »