Why is it time to rescue investors?

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It’s time for investors to start making safe bets.

That’s what Oaktree Capital co-chairman Howard Marks told CNNMoney editor Richard Quest on “Markets Now” on Wednesday.

“Defense is more important than offense right now,” said Marks, author of “Mastering the Market Cycle: Getting the Odds on Your Side.”

Investors should consider taking stakes in utilities and reducing their exposure to more volatile tech stocks, he said.

Defense is the name of the game for a few reasons.

Although stocks are rising, Marks warns that we may be near the end of the bull cycle.

“I’m not saying get out,” he said. “I think it’s very dangerous to stay out of the market today, and I think raising cash would be a mistake.” But if the environment changes, more reliable stocks can protect investors from big losses.

Marks also cited the trade war with China as another reason for investors to exercise caution.

“We have a trade war with China that will probably be resolved, but it could derail,” he said. “And if it goes off the rails, it will have very serious consequences for the world economy.”

The “Markets Now” stream airs live from the New York Stock Exchange every Wednesday at 12:45 pm ET. Hosted by CNNMoney business correspondents, the 15-minute program features sharp commentary from experts.

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