The run-up in stock prices this year could tempt even the most hands-off investor to wade into their 401(k) and make some changes.

The Dow Jones industrial average, Nasdaq and Standard & Poor's 500 indexes are each up more than 20 percent over the past 12 months. But experts suggest investors tread cautiously and avoid major changes aimed at timing the market.

"It's a retirement account. You are investing for not months or even years, but decades into the future," says Eric Tyson, author of "Personal Finance for Dummies."

He adds: "Most people, including most professional investors, are not very good at market timing."

Complete your profile to continue reading and get FREE access to BenefitsPRO, part of your ALM digital membership.

  • Critical BenefitsPRO information including cutting edge post-reform success strategies, access to educational webcasts and videos, resources from industry leaders, and informative Newsletters.
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM, BenefitsPRO magazine and BenefitsPRO.com events
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com
NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.