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What is Bear Market?
A bear market is a prolonged period of falling prices, typically defined as a 20%+ decline from recent highs. In crypto, bear markets (or "crypto winter") can last 1-2 years.
Full Explanation
A bear market occurs when prices fall 20% or more from recent highs over a sustained period, accompanied by negative sentiment and declining trading activity. In crypto, bear markets are called "crypto winter" and can be severe — 80-90% drops from all-time highs are common for altcoins. Bear markets test investor conviction but also present accumulation opportunities for long-term believers. The term comes from a bear swiping its paws downward.
Example
The 2022 crypto bear market saw Bitcoin drop from $69,000 to $15,500 and many altcoins lose 90%+ of their value.
Related Terms
Last updated: 2026-03-21
