What Investment Products Help Protect Against Market Bumps?
17.05.12
*Paul Solman answers questions from NewsHour viewers and web users on business and economic news here on his [**Making Sen$e**](http://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/makingsense/) page. Here's Thursday's query:*
**Name:** Don Kruger
**Question:** I lost half of my 401k savings in the last big bump in the "market." Now I have an IRA that I will be have to draw on in three years. Is there no way to save my recovered total from another whack?

**Paul Solman:** I sent this question to Boston University finance professor Zvi Bodie. His response:

Yes, there is a way -- inflation-protected bonds and annuities -- "TIPS." These are investment products that protect you against the risks of market crashes, inflation, and living longer than your money lasts. To learn all about them I recommend starting here: [zvibodie.com](http://zvibodie.com/). To learn
Source: PBS NewsHour