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Markets don’t move in straight lines, and the first quarter of 2026 was a perfect reminder of that. Between geopolitical conflict, rising oil prices, and renewed inflation concerns, investors faced a volatile environment that left markets unsettled.

In this episode, Chief Executive Officer Jeff Sarti and Chief Investment Officer Meghan Pinchuk break down Q1, exploring consumer sentiment, why traditional diversification didn’t behave as expected, and how different asset classes responded during this period of uncertainty. The conversation highlights a key theme: resilience doesn’t come from predicting markets. It comes from preparing for multiple outcomes.

Tune in if you’re interested in…

• What drove market volatility in Q1 2026
• Why we remain confident in gold despite short-term volatility
• How stocks, bonds, and alternative assets behaved differently
• Why traditional bonds didn’t provide a safe haven
• What stagflation is and how it impacts portfolios
• How Morton’s approach to diversification made clients resilient during this period of volatility

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Featuring

Jeff Sarti, CEO

Meghan Pinchuk, Chief Investment Officer

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Watch previous episodes here:

Ep. 183 Are You Setting Up Your Teens for Financial Responsibility?

Ep. 182 Tax-Smart Strategies for Charitable Giving

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Questions This Episode Answers

• Why didn’t bonds protect portfolios during recent volatility?
  Rising inflation and interest rates reduce bond prices, making them less effective as a short-term “safe haven.”
• What is stagflation, and why is it a concern?
  Stagflation is when economic growth slows while inflation rises, creating a difficult environment where both stocks and bonds can struggle. Given this backdrop, it is crucial to seek out alternative investments designed to be resilient in the face of potential stagflation.
• How do geopolitical events impact markets?
  Events like conflicts or supply disruptions (especially in energy) can drive inflation higher, increase uncertainty, and create market volatility.
• Should investors make changes during uncertain markets?
  Typically, no. Reacting to short-term headlines can lead to poor timing. A disciplined, long-term strategy is a more effective approach.
• What role do gold and commodities play in a portfolio?
  They can act as alternative assets that respond differently to inflation and currency movements, helping diversify risk.

What This Means for Your Financial Plan

One of the biggest lessons from Q1 is that markets don’t always behave the way we expect, and trying to react in real time can do more harm than good. Instead, building a portfolio designed to handle multiple scenarios is key to long-term success.

This is where true diversification matters. Incorporating a mix of traditional and alternative assets can help create a more resilient portfolio that isn’t overly dependent on any single outcome.

If you’re wondering whether your current portfolio is positioned to handle today’s environment, reach out to your advisor or connect with our team. We’re happy to review your strategy and help you make thoughtful, proactive adjustments.

Disclosures:This market review is presented for educational purposes only and should not be relied on for investment recommendations. References to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted as recommendations to purchase or sell such securities.​

All indexes are unmanaged, and an individual cannot invest directly in an index. Index returns do not include fees or expenses. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. All investments involve risk, including the loss of principal. Investing in alternative assets involves higher risks and generally involves higher fees than traditional investments.

Although information contained herein is from sources deemed to be reliable, Morton makes no representation as to the adequacy, accuracy, or completeness of such information. You should consult with your financial advisor to thoroughly review all information before implementing any transactions and/or strategies concerning your finances.

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