Staying Grounded in Uncertain Markets

It’s natural to pause and think about how your investments are supporting your charitable giving during times of volatility. We spoke with Abigail Meyer, the VCF’s Director of Investments, about how to navigate uncertainty with a steady, values-driven perspective. 

In times of market uncertainty, what can help donors and fundholders feel more confident in their decisions?

When markets feel unpredictable, we take comfort in the knowledge that our portfolio is built with a diversified approach designed to weather turbulent market environments. The VCF Core Investment Pool is built to do two things well: grow steadily when markets are strong and help safeguard against losses when they’re not—supporting capital preservation for our fundholder’s giving over the long term.  

We’ve seen this approach play out in real time, helping the portfolio remain more resilient than broader equity markets during recent periods of market volatility. The Foundation invests its assets to balance today’s needs with long-term sustainability. Our website includes a collection of documents that show how we care for and invest these resources, with a track record dating back to 1989 and updates each quarter. 

Who do you partner with to make investment decisions?

We take a diversified approach to investing, guided by a team of experienced professionals. Our investment committee, led by professionals with deep and varied investment expertise, provides ongoing oversight. 

We partner with Crewcial Partners, which recommends investment managers, monitors portfolio performance, and provides monthly and quarterly reporting and evaluations. Their team offers critical oversight of the portfolio through rigorous due diligence, ongoing research, and careful monitoring of each investment manager. Learn more about our strategy here. 

What role can philanthropy play during periods of market uncertainty?

Community needs do not pause when markets fluctuate, and in many cases, uncertainty can place additional strain on the organizations working closest to those needs. VCF’s investment strategy is designed to best position funds to be able to consistently respond to community needs when there is uncertainty in the market. Whether through consistent support or thoughtful responsiveness, these moments can be a time to consider how your giving can be an enduring source of long-term stability for the nonprofits or communities you love.  

How does the VCF approach its role during periods of market uncertainty?

We see our role as both a steady partner and a long-term steward. Alongside an investment approach designed for durability, our Community Impact team stays closely connected to nonprofits across Vermont who are navigating these same conditions. 

That connection allows us to offer fundholders meaningful insight into where support can make a difference and how to stay engaged in ways that reflect both their goals and the realities facing Vermonters. 

Any final thoughts?

Uncertainty can be difficult, but it can also be a moment to reconnect with what matters most. Whether you’re thinking about your investments, your giving, your legacy, or all of it at once, taking a broader view and focusing on where you can have meaningful impact can offer a sense of steadiness. 

It’s also worth remembering that periods of uncertainty can create opportunity—prompting thoughtful decisions, long-term positioning, and, at times, meaningful impact when support is needed most. 

Philanthropy, at its core, is about enduring commitment to community, to shared wellbeing, and to the belief that progress is possible over time. That perspective does not change with the markets. 

If you would like to learn more about our investment strategy, or talk through your charitable goals, reach out to our Philanthropy Team at philanthropy@vermontcf.org