Investment Corner: Wars and Investments

Two weeks ago, many of us were coming off of an emotional high from the Olympics. Today the news is dominated by war. What a rapid change of circumstances and emotions for all of us!

As with any major disruption, war can rattle both investment markets and investors. Markets tend to thrive on certainty, and wars often feel like the exact opposite of certainty. Frankly, I can’t blame anyone for wanting to pull some of their money out of the market right now–or any time a war breaks out.

However, more than a century of market history shows that wars and other geopolitical disruptions rarely derail long-term stock market investors, and in fact, are often still ongoing while the market surges.

A 2026 analysis by Kelly Bogdanova of RBC Wealth Management concluded that wars and conflicts generally do not prevent U.S. markets from continuing their long-term growth. There is often an initial period of uncertainty, which can lead to a temporary market drop, but that is most often followed by an upward surge of the market. In fact, in 19 of the 20 post-World War II military conflicts that the analysis covered, the S&P 500 Index fully recovered from its initial decline in an average of just 28 days. The market recovered surprisingly quickly, historically speaking.

Even when there were initial drops in the S&P 500, the average initial pullback was just 6%, not enough to be classified as a “market correction”.

The takeaways? Wars and other disruptions happen, and oftentimes the markets fall with the news. That’s part of investing. If you’re not ready to ride that out with your portfolio, you may be invested too aggressively. Investors who do ride out the storm have been rewarded again and again across history.

The best solution is to invest in a way that matches your goals, timelines and risk tolerance. Don’t let short-term events throw you off track and prevent you from achieving your goals. Invest in a way that is sustainable and appropriate for you, which may be different from the water cooler investing talk at work. Wars are bad enough for their human toll; don’t let them ruin your portfolio as well.

How ever you choose to handle market disruptions, invest smartly and invest well!

Larry Sidney is a Zephyr Cove-based Investment Advisor Representative. Information is found at https://palisadeinvestments.com/ or by calling 775-299-4600 x702. This is not a solicitation to buy or sell securities. Clients may hold positions mentioned in this article. Past Performance does not guarantee future results. Consult your financial advisor before purchasing any security.

Obituary: Richard Kudrna, Sr.

– February 15, 2026

Richard Kudrna, Sr., a dedicated family man, Korean War veteran, and respected business leader, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2026, at the age of 92. He was surrounded by his loving family in his final moments.

Born in 1933 in North Dakota, Richard grew up in the heart of the Midwest, where he developed the strong work ethic and resilience that defined his life. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the Korean War, a chapter he carried with quiet honor throughout his years.

After his military service, Richard built a successful career in the hospitality and gaming industry. He retired from Harvey’s Resort Hotel and Casino at Lake Tahoe as Chairman of the Board, where his leadership and vision contributed to the legacy of one of the region’s iconic destinations.

Richard was preceded in death by his youngest son, Greg, oldest son, Kenny and his beloved wife, Vera Lou. He is survived by his remaining son, Richard Jr., his cherished grandsons and granddaughter, Crew, Cole and Teal, his great grandson, Taedom, his brother Larry, and his devoted life partner and girlfriend, Jewel who stood by him in his later years.

Richard’s life was marked by devotion to family, service to his country, and professional accomplishment. He will be remembered for his strength, warmth, and the deep love and humor he shared with those closest to him.

A celebration of life will be on March 28th with a mass at 11am followed by a reception at noon at St. Galls Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard’s memory may be made to a veterans’ organization of one’s choice.

Obituary: Nicole “Niki” Choo

– February 17, 2026

Nicole “Niki” Choo, 42, passed away February 17, 2026, in the avalanche at Castle Peak in California’s Sierra Nevada.
Originally from Ottawa, Canada, Niki built a life in the Tahoe community as a mountain guide, AIARE instructor, and AMGA apprentice guide with Blackbird Mountain Guides. Known for her strength in the mountains, generous mentorship, infectious smile & energy, she was a respected presence in the backcountry and a passionate advocate for inclusivity in the outdoors, serving as an ambassador for WeGotNext.

She is survived by her husband, Jared Gentz; her parents, David and Shanti Choo; her sister, Natalie; and her dog, Benson.

Memorials: May 16 at Camp Fortune (Ottawa) and June 14 in Tahoe (location TBD). Donations may be made to WeGotNext.

Obituary: Joan Hotle Richardson

December 28, 1932 – February 4, 2026

Joan Hotle Richardson passed away peacefully on February 4th at Spring Lake Village in Santa Rosa, California, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She leaves behind her husband of many decades, Sky Richardson; daughters Katie Rapozo and Lynn Richardson; and grandchildren Gabriel Rapozo, Skyler Flora, and Brandon Flora.

Born in Sonoma County, Joan lived in Guerneville until her father was promoted at the Bank of Sonoma County and moved the family to Sebastopol when she was eight. She was bright, curious, and an excellent student which led her to Stanford University, where she earned a degree in psychology. After graduation she moved to San Francisco and worked as a buyer for Macy’s Department Store.

At a mutual friend’s Christmas party Joan met Schuyler “Sky” Richardson, the son of a local rancher. They married when Sky returned from military service, embarking on a loving partnership that lasted almost 70 years.

She enthusiastically took to Sky’s love of the outdoors and when the family moved to Tahoe in 1971 she flourished, embracing hiking, backpacking, skiing, boating, golfing and fly fishing. Joan went to work for Alpine Meadows Ski Resort and was employed there for 26 years. She was also an avid reader, skilled bridge player, and member of AAUW.

Every fall she and Sky went fly fishing throughout the western states and Canada. The Klamath River in Northern California held a special place in her heart. She could cast a fly on big water with remarkable skill, so much so, that some men hesitated to fish beside her.

Joan and Sky had a true partnership. She was always game for the opportunities Sky brought to their lives like considering buying a pack station in the Eastern Sierras and starting a landscaping business in Tahoe City, which they did until Sky retired. After retirement, Joan took the lead in planning their adventures. She organized trips to Europe, New Zealand, Africa and South America with the same thoroughness and enthusiasm, she brought to everything. When the grandchildren came along, she delighted in creating adventures and educational experiences for them at every opportunity.

Joan’s skill in the kitchen was a gift she passed down to her two daughters. Her chocolate cake was legendary. Friends asked for the recipe, which she freely gave, but they complained that it never turned out as well as hers.

Her immediate smile, laugh and love of life were memorable. Those fortunate enough to be a part of her world knew they could always depend on her unwavering care, warmth and devotion.