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Historical data suggests investors should maintain long-term perspective during bear markets

10/13/2026

Stock markets will eventually enter a bear market, defined as a decline of 20% or more in the share prices of a major index like the S&P 500.

According to historical data spanning nearly 100 years, investors can protect their portfolios by maintaining a long-term perspective and utilizing dollar-cost averaging strategies.

The S&P 500 has delivered average annual returns of 9.98% since 1928. While this rate of return exceeds that of savings accounts, it is not guaranteed in any single year.

Investors must hold onto their positions through periods of volatility to achieve these long-term averages.