Now is the Time: Why Market Volatility is a
Crucial Opportunity for Couples to Strengthen
Their Financial Connection
In times of uncertainty—whether personal, societal, or financial—our relationships are put to the test. But these moments, if approached with intention, are also profound opportunities to build trust, intimacy, and resilience.
Right now, with financial markets experiencing significant volatility—triggered by new tariffs, economic policy shifts, and global instability—many people are feeling anxious about their financial future. This anxiety is not just a personal burden; it enters our homes, our conversations, and our relationships.
But here’s the truth: when partners turn toward each other instead of away during times of stress, they create what I call a “shared meaning system.” And few areas of life provide a more powerful opportunity to do this than money.
Financial Stress is Emotional Stress
Research shows that financial stress is among the most common sources of tension in romantic relationships. In fact, a study out of Cornell University found that couples under financial stress often communicate less, not more—out of fear that money conversations will lead to conflict. Ironically, that silence is the conflict.
The solution isn’t to avoid the discomfort; it’s to lean into it—with kindness, curiosity, and the tools to regulate and understand one another.
In my experience, I’ve seen over and over that the strongest relationships aren’t those without conflict—they’re the ones where both partners repair well after disagreement, and where emotions are accepted and understood, not judged or dismissed.
You’re on the Same Team—Even if You Handle Stress Differently
In almost every relationship, there’s one person who’s more financially anxious and another who is more steady or optimistic. That’s not a flaw—it’s balance. The key is to move away from polarization (“You’re always worrying” or “You never take this seriously”) and toward partnership: “What can we learn from each other here?”
The one who is more cautious can offer protection and foresight. The one who is less shaken can offer perspective and calm. Together, you co-regulate your emotional responses and become a stronger unit.
Why Talking About Money Makes Couples Stronger
The data is clear: couples who regularly talk about money build more wealth, report greater relationship satisfaction, and are more aligned on life goals.
- A study by Fidelity found that 43% of couples disagree about retirement plans—yet couples who communicate well about money are far more likely to feel confident about their future.
- Another survey by Bankrate found that 40% of Americans in committed relationships have committed financial infidelity—hiding purchases, debts, or bank accounts from their partner. That secrecy erodes trust, often irreparably.
But here’s the good news: just like we can repair a fight or deepen our connection through a “stress-reducing conversation,” we can also repair financial trust. The antidote to secrecy is openness. The antidote to fear is shared responsibility.
Make This Your Ritual of Connection
This period of market volatility isn’t just a financial event—it’s an emotional one. That’s why now is the perfect time to establish what I call a “ritual of connection” around money.
Here’s how:
- Create a Safe Space
Set a regular time to talk about your financial life—free from distractions, blame, or urgency. Approach it the same way you would a State of the Union conversation about your relationship. It’s not just about spreadsheets—it’s about dreams, values, and fears. - Focus on Emotions, Not Just Numbers
Remember, behind every dollar is a story—childhood messages about money, personal insecurities, hopes for the future. Let your financial talks include those stories too. - Build a Shared Financial Dream
When partners share goals—whether that’s paying down debt, saving for travel, or building a legacy—they’re no longer negotiating against each other. They’re dreaming together.
Additional reading:
When The Headlines Get Loud, Remember the Long Game
About Amit: I am a first generation American, the son of a working-class Indian family, and I lived through my parents’ struggle to find their place in this country, to put down roots that would sustain them as well as their children in a new land. As they encouraged me to excel in school and fostered my hobbies and interests, I was keenly aware of the dynamic between them. I understood that there was a difference between where they came from individually and where we were now. They worked hard in their individual capacities, but they weren’t always on the same page about financial issues – and that can make or break a family’s future. I didn’t know it at the time, but this laid the groundwork for my passion towards financial services and helping families succeed.