What Does History Say About the Duration of the S&P 500 Bull Market?

The current bull market has been a boon for investors, with the S&P 500 climbing over 46% from its lowest point in late 2022. However, as we approach the 19-month mark of this bull run, some investors are starting to wonder how much longer it can last.

Looking at historical data can provide some insight into the potential duration of this bull market. On average, S&P 500 bull markets since 1929 have lasted around 1,011 days, or just under three years. There have been outliers, such as the bull markets from 1987 to 2000 and 2009 to 2020, which lasted much longer. However, the median length of a bull market is around 522 days, or roughly a year and a half.

Despite being around 19 months into the current bull market, this doesn’t necessarily mean a downturn is imminent. In fact, of the last 10 S&P 500 bull markets dating back to 1970, half of them have lasted at least 1,000 days. Bull markets seem to be lasting longer as time goes on, thanks in part to improved economic policies and regulations.

While it’s impossible to predict exactly when the next bear market will occur, investors can take steps to prepare for it. Investing in quality stocks of healthy companies and holding them for the long term can help weather market downturns. Now may also be a good time to reassess your portfolio and consider selling any underperforming stocks.

By staying informed and maintaining a long-term investment strategy, investors can navigate the ups and downs of the market with confidence.