A market crash is a sudden and sharp drop in asset prices, often triggered by panic selling, economic shocks, or systemic financial failures. Crashes are extreme events and are typically characterized by rapid losses in value over days or even hours — such as the infamous crashes in 1929, 1987, or 2008. By contrast, a bull market is defined by sustained and gradual price increases fueled by positive investor sentiment and strong fundamentals. The two represent opposite ends of the market spectrum. While a crash can signal the end of a bull market, the presence of a crash itself is not a feature of bullish conditions. Confusing these terms can lead to poor decision-making and unnecessary fear. Recognizing a bull market as a period of growing value — not sudden loss — is essential for strategic investing and long-term planning.