A "Bear Market" is defined as a decline of 20 percent from recent highs. By the time you read this, we may be in a bear market or we may have recovered from a mere correction that began in February. For people seeking a better return on their savings than what the banks offer, the ups and downs of the stock market are a natural part of the investing process. It comes with the territory in return for the long-term growth rate that defines owning a piece of American industry.
     Bear markets can be painful, but overall markets are generally positive over time. The last 90 years of market history have been defined as bear markets for about 20 of those years. In other words, stocks have been on the rise 77 percent of the time.

     There have been 26 market corrections since World War II.

     Those declines have averaged -13.7 percent over four months.

     It took the markets an average of four months to recover from those declines.

     To smooth out that ride, professional investors create diversified portfolios of stocks and bonds, domestic and international, creating portfolios that allow them â€" and their clients - to sleep well at night.

      Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) offer these money management services to individuals, families and businesses who want help. We are Certified Financial Plannerâ„¢ professionals and have worked with hundreds of people just like you to grow and maintain their wealth.

     We invite you to schedule a meeting to visit with us, have a cup of coffee and a chat. We promise no sales pitches and honest answers to your questions.