NEW YORK - As financial markets experience turbulence, many Americans nearing retirement age are grappling with anxiety over their savings. The ongoing trade war and economic uncertainty have left individuals like Michael Montgomery, a 66-year-old professor from Huntington Woods, Michigan, hesitant to check their retirement account balances [1][2][3][4][5][6].

'I'm not looking,' Montgomery says, expressing a sentiment shared by many in his position. This avoidance strategy has helped alleviate some of his day-to-day worries [1][2][3][4][5][6].

The current market volatility, influenced by White House policies and global economic factors, has raised concerns among retirees and near-retirees about potentially outliving their savings or having to postpone retirement plans [1][2][3][4][5][6].

In response to the uncertainty, some individuals, like Montgomery and his wife, have adjusted their investment portfolios. They moved more money into bonds following the recent election, a common strategy to reduce risk exposure [1][2][3][4][5][6].

However, the global nature of the economy leaves many feeling powerless. Montgomery expresses his concern: 'I hope like hell I don't lose all my retirement savings. But where else could you put the money...' [1][2][3][4][5][6].

Financial advisors generally recommend maintaining a diversified portfolio and avoiding panic-driven decisions during market downturns. However, the emotional toll on individuals nearing retirement is evident, as they grapple with the potential impact on their long-term financial security.

As the situation continues to evolve, many Americans are closely watching economic indicators and government policies, hoping for stability in the markets and reassurance for their retirement prospects.