DurationA bull market can last anywhere from a few months to several years. The longest bull market lasted from 2009 to 2020.A bear market can last from a few months to several years. The longest bear market spanned 61 months from 1937 to 1942 during the Great Depression.Bull markets tend to last longer than bear markets with an average duration of 6.6 years.The average cumulative gain over the course of a bull market is 339%.How to invest in a bull vs.
Long-term investors generally should not change their investing style to accommodate either a bull or bear market. Rather, many experts recommend that they have an asset allocation that reflects their risk tolerance, their investing time horizon, and their long-term goals. Investors should periodically rebalance their portfolio. Working with a financial advisor to help you develop an investing strategy that fits your situation can help you to stay on track.
For example, the bear market that began in 2000 and extended into 2002 was largely fueled by the “bursting of the tech bubble.” It was then exacerbated by the tragic events of 9/11 and the aftermath. During this bear market, there were sectors that still did well for investors.