What does "bull market" signify?

A "bull market" signifies a market condition characterized by rising prices or the expectation that prices will rise. This term is especially used in the context of financial markets, including stocks and real estate. Investor confidence tends to be high during a bull market, leading to increased buying activity, which further propels prices upward. Typically, a bull market is defined as one that has sustained price increases of 20% or more from recent lows, reflecting overall investor optimism.

In contrast, stable market conditions would not typically be classified as a bull market, as there would be no significant upward movement in prices. Similarly, a falling market indicates the opposite scenario, where prices are declining, which is more aligned with a "bear market." Lastly, a condition with no trading activity does not characterize any market trend and would not appropriately fit the definition of a bull market, which thrives on active trading and investor engagement. Thus, the definition of a bull market encapsulates the idea of rising prices and overall market optimism.