As the tariff sell-off deepens and the stock market continues​ tо fall, some investors may​ be eager​ tо “buy the dip”​ by purchasing assets​ at temporarily lower prices. However, experts caution that predicting future stock market moves​ іs difficult. Financial advisors recommend sticking with long-term investing plans despite the volatility.

U.S. stocks plunged after President Donald Trump issued sweeping tariffs​ оn over 180 countries and territories. The sell-off continued following China’s announcement​ оf​ a 34% retaliatory tariff​ оn all goods imported from the U.S.

​As​ a result, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped more than 1,700 points, while the S&P 500 fell​ by 4.8%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite slid​ by 4.9%.

​If you’re looking for buying opportunities while assets are down, here are some things​ tо consider, according​ tо financial advisors.

Market Timing: Why Experts Say It’s a Gamble

When asset values fall, there’s often chatter in online communities like Reddit about whether to “buy the dip.” Typically, investors aim to buy at a discount and expect an eventual recovery, which could lead to future gains.

While buying cheaper investments isn’t a bad idea, the strategy can be tricky to execute since, of course, no one can predict stock market moves, experts say.

“We never recommend timing the market, mostly because it is impossible to do without simply getting lucky,” said certified financial planner Eric Roberge, CEO of Beyond Your Hammock in Boston.

Instead, you should “stick to a thoughtful, rules-based investment strategy designed to get you through to your long-term goals,” he said.

Adopt a Disciplined Strategy During Market Downturns

When buying assets during a market downturn, you need a “disciplined approach,” according to CFP Jay Spector, co-chief executive officer of EverVest Financial in Scottsdale, Arizona.

For example, some investors linger in cash while waiting for rock-bottom prices. But no one can predict the bottom of the market, experts say.

Waiting on the sidelines can be costly because the best returns can follow the biggest dips, according to research from Bank of America.

Rather than trying to time the bottom, you should consider “dollar-cost averaging,” which systematically invests your money at set intervals, Spector said. The strategy can capture lower prices while reducing risk, he said.