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Bear Market

A bear market is a financial market condition characterized by falling prices, investor pessimism, and negative sentiment, typically defined as a 20% or greater decline from recent highs.

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Exam Tip

Bear = DOWN (claws swipe down). 20% decline = official bear market.

What is a Bear Market?

A bear market is a period of declining prices in a financial market, typically characterized by a drop of 20% or more from recent highs. Bear markets are often accompanied by economic recession and high unemployment.

Characteristics of Bear Markets

IndicatorBear Market Sign
Price TrendFalling prices (20%+ from highs)
Investor SentimentPessimistic, fearful
Economic ConditionsRecession, rising unemployment
Trading VolumeHigh selling activity
Corporate EarningsGenerally declining

Bear Market Phases

  1. Distribution - Smart money sells, public still buying
  2. Panic - Sharp drops, widespread selling
  3. Stabilization - Selling exhausts, bottom forms

Historical Bear Markets

PeriodDurationS&P 500 Loss
2007-200917 months-57%
2000-200231 months-49%
2020 (COVID)1 month-34%

Why "Bear"?

The term comes from how a bear attacks-by swiping its claws downward, symbolizing falling prices.

Bear Market Strategies

  • Don't panic sell
  • Consider defensive stocks (utilities, healthcare)
  • Look for buying opportunities
  • Maintain diversification
  • Review risk tolerance

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Related Terms

Bull Market

A bull market is a financial market condition characterized by rising prices, investor optimism, and expectations of continued gains, typically defined as a 20% or greater rise from recent lows.

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