Investors understandably nervous about geopolitical conflict should take some comfort from history. According to a Stock Trader’ s Almanac analysis of 17 major geopolitical events since 1939, the S & P 500 has averaged a loss of just 0.9 % in the first month following a crisis, but has gained an average of 3.4 % over the following six months.

largely resolved from a market perspective over the ensuing six months,” said Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at Carson Group.( Source: CNBC, March 2026)

Morgan Stanley notes that markets have historically posted gains during wartime, including double-digit increases during both Gulf Wars in the three-to-six months after the onset, led by the defense sector. At the same time, the firm cautions that“ geopolitical risk is becoming a persistent part of the backdrop, not merely episodic,” and that investors may need to price in a world where regional blocs and strategic competition drive risk premiums and asset allocation.( Source: Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, 2026)

What Should Plan Participants Do Now?

Despite the noise, the fundamentals of sound retirement planning remain unchanged. Here are steps participants and sponsors should consider:

REVIEW YOUR ASSET ALLOCATION

• Those nearing retirement should ensure their portfolio exposure to equities is aligned with their time horizon and risk tolerance, and consider maintaining healthy allocations to safer assets like bonds and cash.( Source: CNBC, March 2026)

MAXIMIZE YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

• With higher limits in 2026, this is an excellent year to ensure you are contributing the maximum— especially if you are between ages 60 and 63 and eligible for the enhanced $ 11,250 super catch-up.

UNDERSTAND THE ROTH CATCH-UP RULE

• If you earn over $ 150,000, work with your plan administrator to ensure your plan offers a Roth option and update your contribution elections before the year-end deadline. Don’ t panic-sell. Reacting emotionally to shortterm market volatility is one of the most damaging things a retirement saver can do. Stay focused on your long-term plan.

The environment in 2026 is complex, but complexity is precisely why having a well-designed retirement plan, a knowledgeable advisor, and a clear investment strategy matters most. Tax Favored Benefits, Inc. is here to help plan sponsors and participants navigate every challenge this year brings. EDM

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk in all market environments.

This material was sourced in part by Claude. David B. Wentz offers products and services using the following business names: Tax Favored Benefits, Inc. – insurance and financial services | Ameritas Investment Company, LLC( AIC), Member FINRA / SIPC – securities and investments | TFB Advisors, LLC – investment advisory services. AIC and AAS are not affiliated with Tax Favored Benefits, Inc. or TFB Advisors, LLC

Sources

• CNBC / IRS.“ These 401( k) Changes Are Coming in 2026.” December 7, 2025.

• AARP / Social Security Administration.“ 9 Ways Your Retirement Planning Will Change in 2026.” December 17, 2025.

• Paychex.“ Retirement Industry Trends to Watch for 2026.” 2026.

• Fidelity Viewpoints.‘ 7 Smart Money Moves for 2026 Retirement Planning.’ December 31, 2025.

• Fortune / Goldman Sachs.“ Why the Stock Market Thinks the Iran War Will Last 4 Weeks.” March 3, 2026.

• CNBC.“ Iran War and Your Portfolio: Historical Stock Market Patterns.” March 4, 2026.

• CNBC.“ What the Iran War Market Turmoil Means for Those Nearing Retirement.” March 5, 2026.

• Morgan Stanley Wealth Management.“ Iran Conflict: Oil Price Impacts and Inflation.” 2026.

• Wikipedia.“ Economic Impact of the 2026 Iran War.” March 2026.

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SPRING 2026 • EQUIPMENT DEALER MAGAZINE 27