<p>A bear market refers to a financial market in which prices are falling, typically by 20% or more from recent highs. This decline is usually accompanied by widespread pessimism and negative investor sentiment.</p>

<h2>How It Works</h2>
<p>A bear market occurs when investors sell more than they buy, causing prices to drop. This can be triggered by various factors such as economic downturns, geopolitical instability, or negative company earnings reports. As prices fall, more investors may sell their holdings, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of lower prices.</p>

<h2>Why It Matters</h2>
<p>Bear markets can have significant impacts on both individual investors and the broader economy. For investors, a bear market can lead to substantial losses in their portfolios. However, it also presents opportunities to buy assets at lower prices. From an economic perspective, bear markets can signal a slowing economy and may precede a recession. They can also lead to decreased consumer confidence, which can further slow economic growth.</p>