Behavioral science tells us current events have a greater impact on our perception and decisions than the past. In today’s environment, uncertainty reigns, leaving many investors questioning whether this is the start of a long-term trend. Although stocks rise and fall in the short term, they’ve tended to reward investors over longer periods of time.
Looking at the history of the S&P 500 since 1942, the average bull market lasted 4.3 years with an average cumulative total return of 149.5%, while the average bear market (drop of 20% from peak) lasted 11.1 months with an average cumulative loss of -31.7%i.
While today’s challenges certainly warrant caution, they don’t have to be a reason to panic, especially when you are focused on long-term investing. Since 1942, markets have experienced numerous challenges, including multiple wars, an oil embargo, asset bubbles, the Great Recession, and a global pandemic. In each of these challenges, companies and people have adapted and responded to get back on track. Investing will always be uncertain. Creating and sticking to a thoughtfully constructed investment plan is critical to avoid making short-sighted decisions. As Warren Buffet said, “The market is the most efficient mechanism anywhere in the world for transferring wealth from impatient people to patient people.”
History of U.S. Bull and Bear Markets
Source: First Trust, “Client Resource Kit – Market Perspectives” U.S. Equity Market represented by S&P 500.