A New Financial Crisis or a Typical Bear Market?

Comparing 2008/09 with the current financial landscape offers guidance

The 2023 global economy has been experiencing a period of turmoil, marked by aggressive responses from governments, regulators, and the biggest banks as the world watches an increasing loss of confidence in many medium-size and smaller banking institutions. This situation has led to widespread concern and speculation about whether we are on the verge of another financial crisis like the one in 2008-09 or just experiencing a typical bear market.

As the Federal Reserve is fresh from raising its key policy interest rate for the 9th consecutive time, it is essential to analyze the current financial landscape and understand the potential implications of these events.

A New Financial Crisis or a Bear Market?

To determine whether we are facing a new financial crisis or simply a bear market, it is crucial to examine the key differences between the two phenomena. A financial crisis typically involves systemic issues and severe economic disruptions, often resulting from major collapses in financial institutions and market failures. On the other hand, a bear market is characterized by a prolonged period of falling stock prices, generally reflecting weak investor sentiment and concerns about the economy.

Comparing 2008/09 to Today

The 2008-09 financial crisis was triggered by the collapse of the housing market bubble in the United States, which led to the failure of several large financial institutions, including Lehman Brothers and Bear Stearns (there were also 26 banks that failed in 2008 and a slew of bankruptcies, including General Motors and Chrysler). The crisis eventually spread globally, resulting in significant government intervention and extensive bailouts to stabilize the financial system.

In contrast, the current economic turbulence is primarily driven by the market’s loss of confidence in medium-size and smaller banking institutions. While governments, regulators, and the biggest banks have acted swiftly to address this issue, it has not led to the same level of systemic risk and widespread collapse witnessed in 2008-09.

Several factors indicate that the current situation is more akin to a bear market turmoil rather than a full-blown financial crisis:

Limited systemic risk: While there is evident concern surrounding medium-sized and smaller banking institutions, the broader financial system remains stable. Major banks have been quick to respond and help mitigate the risk, reducing the likelihood of a cascading effect.

Proactive regulatory response: The lessons learned from the 2008-09 crisis have led to more robust regulatory frameworks and risk management practices. Regulators have been proactive in addressing concerns and ensuring the stability of financial markets. That is not to suggest there is not more work needed, but the current framework is vastly different from 2008-09.

Stronger economic fundamentals: Unlike the period leading up to the 2008-09 crisis, the global economy has exhibited stronger fundamentals in recent years, with a more diversified growth base and lower levels of private sector debt.

Federal Reserve policy: The Federal Reserve’s decision to continue raising interest rates, despite the current market conditions, suggests that the central bank does not perceive an imminent threat to the overall stability of the financial system.

Always Remain Vigilant

While the recent turmoil in financial markets has raised concerns and drawn comparisons to the 2008-09 financial crisis, there are several key differences that suggest we are more likely experiencing a bear market than a full-blown crisis.

Nonetheless, it remains essential for governments, regulators, and financial institutions to remain vigilant and respond to any emerging risks to ensure the ongoing stability of the global financial system.

And as an investor, you should always remain vigilant too. Your financial advisor does.