Bear Market

A bear market refers to a prolonged period of declining prices and pessimism in a financial market, typically characterised by a drop of at least 20% from recent highs in stock prices. During a bear market, investor confidence tends to wane, and there’s a prevailing sense of negativity about the market’s future prospects.

Key features of a bear market include:

1. Declining Prices: Prices of various financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, or commodities, experience a sustained downward trend.
2. Pessimism: Investors and market participants become increasingly cautious and concerned about the economy’s performance and the overall direction of the market.
3. Reduced Trading Volume: As uncertainty and caution grow, trading volumes often decrease because investors are less inclined to buy or sell.
4. Negative Sentiment: Media coverage tends to focus on economic challenges, market declines, and potential risks, contributing to prevailing negative sentiment.
5. Longer Duration: Bear markets can persist for months or even years, as they often reflect broader economic cycles and significant shifts in investor sentiment.

The opposite of a bear market is a bull market, characterised by rising prices, optimism, and confidence in the market’s future. Both bear and bull markets are natural parts of market cycles, driven by various economic factors, investor behaviour, and global events. Understanding these market dynamics is crucial for investors to make informed decisions about their investment strategies.