Definition
A long stretch of falling prices. A common definition is a drop of 20% or more from a recent high.
The story
The image: a bear swipes its paws down. In 2022 the S&P 500 fell into a bear market as the Fed raised rates quickly to fight inflation. People who expect prices to fall are called bearish.
Why markets watch it
Coverage marks the moment an index closes 20% below its high as entering a bear market.
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We explain why it moves markets. What you do with it is your call. Commentary and education only. Not financial advice. All terms