A large difference between the percentage bullish vs. bearish indicates more risk. The SMI sends no clear signal whether the market is bullish or bearish. A parabola below the price is generally bullish, while a parabola above is generally bearish. These surveys gauge the attitude of market participants, specifically whether they are bearish or bullish. The pattern is recognized in two variants, one bearish and one bullish. Therefore, bearish divergence is a sign confirming an uptrend. Downside beta has greater explanatory power than standard beta in bearish markets. In a secular bear market, the prevailing trend is "bearish" or downward-moving. A bearish reversal bar would be the opposite. The market became rather bearish as non-futures prices froze and stagnated in December 2007. A rising wedge is more reliable when found in a bearish market. Often distrustful of the 'establishment' and almost always bearish, it's known for a pessimistic worldview. If the trader is bearish (expects prices to fall), you use a bearish call spread. The lead and zinc markets became rather bearish for several months afterwards. In general, bearish strategies yield profit with less risk of loss.