Definition
A sustained period of rising prices, commonly dated from a 20% rise off a market low. Bull markets historically run for years and deliver the bulk of long-term returns.
Why it matters
Bull markets mint overconfidence: rising prices make concentration and leverage look like skill. The discipline that pays is staying invested through the whole cycle rather than predicting when the bull ends.
Example
An investor who kept $50,000 invested through a multi-year bull run watches it grow past $80,000. A friend who waited years for a pullback that never came earned nothing while waiting for a better price.
Put it into practice
Related terms
This definition is educational, not financial, legal, or tax advice. U.S. rules and limits change; verify time-sensitive details with official sources. See our disclaimer.