Words of Wisdom from Chad Brand

History tends to repeat itself. The economy and the stock market are no different. We have had, and will continue to have, economic expansions followed by recessions. To give you an idea of what to expect, consider the last recession.

It was the result of another bubble bursting (in Silicon Valley, not housing). In 2 1/2 years (early 2000 through late 2002) the S&P 500 fell by 50.5%. Investors felt massive pain and many took dramatic action by getting out of the market. That was the right emotional decision in their minds at the time (because they didn't want to take any more pain) but it backfired financially.

After a 2 1/2 year bear market, the S&P 500 bottomed in October 2002 and rose by 105.1% over the next 5 years. Those investors who stuck with the market and even added to their investments as prices dropped reaped huge rewards. Those who exited the market out of fear missed out.

With the market down more than 35% in the last year, what should investors do now? For the answer all we need to do is look at history. About 97% of all five year periods have seen the stock market go up, as have nearly 100% of all 10-year periods. If you are a long term investor (5 year time horizon or more by my standards) the numbers imply you should stay in the market.

Continue Reading at Chad's Site: http://www.peridotcapitalist.com/2008/10/history-lesson-bear-market-advice.html