With an ETF (preferably a broad-based ETF), you basically av...

With an ETF (preferably a broad-based ETF), you basically average out the volatility caused by a single stock or a bunch of stocks. Whether sideways or in a rising market, you won't feel too much pain when a particular stock plunged due to a certain news or rumour.

In a falling market, the ETF would also soften the fall as not all stocks in the ETF might fall or fall at the same rate. To take advantage of the falling market or industry, you might also consider a reverse ETF (also broad-base) to hedge your positions if you are not thinking of selling any time soon. Consider taking a small reverse ETF position to reduce the pain if you think the market or industry is not going up any time soon.