May 15, 2026, 12:25 PM EDT. The stock market faces potential risks before summer amid high bond yields, rising inflation, and an overbought market led by select tech stocks. Past crashes like 1987's 22% Dow drop and 2007-09's financial crisis highlight vulnerability. Consumers and businesses remain solvent, but private credit issues and an AI bubble could trigger a downturn. Boomer investors should consider building cash reserves now with high-yield savings accounts offering around 5%, to safeguard portfolios. These steps aim to protect retirement assets from a possible sharp market correction, balancing the market's historically high valuations with prudent risk management.