For investors in equity markets it has been a tough start to the new year. In fact, in the United States — by far the largest equity market in the world, the S&P500 index has had the worst start on record dating back to 1929. No one enjoys watching the price of their investments jump around, so it’s understandable if some investors feel unsure and nervous. Unfortunately, however, volatility in markets is normal. It’s the price we pay to earn higher returns over the long-term.