What is a bull market?

We explain what a 'bull market' means

A bull market is generally defined by a 20 per cent rise in the stock market that takes place after a 20 per cent drop in the market.

This is not a precise definition and ‘bull market’ is often used to describe a situation in which investors are upbeat, putting a lot of money into stocks and think that the economy is going to perform well for the foreseeable future.

Though it’s usually used in the context of the stock market, ‘bull market’ can be used to describe almost any area of investment. You might have a ‘real estate bull market’ or a ‘bull market in the fine wine industry.’

The term ‘bullish’ is also derived from ‘bull market.’ To be ‘bullish’ about a particular stock, industry or market just means that you are confident that it’s going to perform well and increase in value.

More terms

Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS)
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Yield to maturity
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Zero-Coupon Bond
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Unit Trusts
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Time-Weighted Rate of Return (TWRR)
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Individual Savings Account (ISA)
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Benefits
  • A great way to try Freetrade before transferring your ISA or pension
  • Unlimited commission-free trades. Other charges may apply.
  • Trade USD and EUR stocks at the exchange rate + 0.99% FX fee
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  • Access to mobile app and web platform
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  • A lower FX fee of 0.59% on non-GBP trades
  • 3% AER on up to £2,000 uninvested cash
  • Automated order types, including recurring orders
  • More stats and analysis, including analyst ratings and EPS estimates 
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  • Stocks and shares ISA
  • Personal pension
Everything in Standard and:
  • A lower FX fee of 0.39% on non-GBP trades
  • Priority customer service
  • 5% AER on up to £3,000 uninvested cash

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