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What is Bull Market?

Updated 20 August 2026

A market condition characterised by rising prices and general investor optimism over a sustained period.

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A bull market describes a sustained period where prices in a financial market, such as the stock market, are generally rising, accompanied by widespread investor optimism and confidence about the future. While there's no single official definition of exactly how much or how long prices need to rise to qualify, the term generally describes an extended upward trend rather than a brief rally.

During bull markets, investor sentiment tends to be positive, trading volumes often increase, and new investors are frequently drawn in by the visible gains others are making. It's worth remembering that bull markets don't last forever, and getting swept up in excessive optimism during one can lead to overconfidence and taking on more risk than is actually appropriate for your goals, so maintaining a disciplined, goal-based investment approach matters just as much in a bull market as in a bear one.