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Market Volatility
A message from American Funds Distributors CEO Matt O’Connor
Matt O'Connor
CEO, Capital Client Group

Matt O’Connor, chief executive officer of American Funds Distributors, outlines Capital Group’s response to the global spread of COVID-19 and how we are continuing to serve advisors and clients.


Frequently asked questions: Here is some information you may find helpful.


What hours are your service teams available?


Our phone teams are available as usual – from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST at (800) 421-0180. Given current market volatility, wait times may be longer than normal. We appreciate your patience and understanding. As always, you can access our services via our website. 


What steps are you taking to ensure your business continues to operate effectively during this period?


Our business is fully operational and stable. Across various parts of Capital, we have instituted work-from-home protocols that allow us to serve you and help keep our associates and their families healthy. This has allowed our key business processes to remain uninterrupted. We have equipped our client-facing associates with robust video and phone technologies to remain visible, fully accessible and dedicated to serving your needs through this period.


How should I (or my clients) feel about your investment strategies in this environment? 


At Capital Group, our investment process features a multiple manager system that seeks to provide a smoother ride for investors with less volatility than the overall markets. Our investment experience spans nine decades and is designed to weather all kinds of market cycles. Our deep fundamental research, global perspective and long-term view have helped our investment portfolios hold up well in times like these. These characteristics have helped us to pursue long-term superior results.


I’m worried about my investments. What should I do?


Today, many people are scared and concerned because it’s unclear how current events will unfold. That’s understandable. One thing we know from experience is that fear and uncertainty are the enemies of successful investing, causing many investors to do the wrong thing at the wrong time. While it can be difficult, the key is to look through the current situation and stay the course by sticking to your long-term plan. When you look back through previous periods of market swings, the long-term view has been rewarded.


How can I learn more about the insights and outlook your investment professionals have on the current markets and economy?


Our volatility team is delivering daily insights and weekly webinars designed to give you exposure to the thinking across the vast breadth and depth of Capital’s investment professionals. You can access these services at capitalgroup.com.



Matt O’Connor is head of North America Client Group and chief executive officer of Capital Client Group, part of Capital Group. He has 30 years of investment industry experience (as of 12/31/2023). Matt holds an MBA from F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College and a bachelor’s in economics from Saint Anselm College.


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Statements attributed to an individual represent the opinions of that individual as of the date published and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Capital Group or its affiliates. This information is intended to highlight issues and should not be considered advice, an endorsement or a recommendation.