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A prolonged period in which investment prices fall, accompanied by widespread pessimism.
A bear market occurs when a broad market index (like the S&P 500) falls by 20% or more from its most recent recent high. Bear markets are typically associated with economic recessions, rising unemployment, and declining corporate profits. They are characterized by intense investor fear and pessimism, leading to panic selling. While painful in the short term, bear markets are a normal part of the economic cycle and historically present the best buying opportunities for long-term investors.
During the 2008 Financial Crisis, the S&P 500 dropped by over 50% from its peak. Investors who panicked and sold their stocks suffered massive permanent losses, while those who held on or continued to buy eventually recovered all their money as the market rebounded into a historic bull run.