In the context of market strategies, what is a 'bear spread'?

A 'bear spread' is a specific trading strategy designed to profit from the anticipated decline in asset prices. This strategy can be implemented using options or futures contracts and typically involves taking one position that is expected to lose value while offsetting it with another that is expected to gain value as the market moves downward.

In a bear spread, an investor might sell one option and buy another option with the same expiration date but a different strike price. This creates a range of maximum loss and maximum gain, making it a defined risk strategy. The primary goal of a bear spread is to capitalize on bearish market sentiment, where the investor believes that prices are likely to fall.

Understanding this concept is critical for individuals involved in alternative investments, as it not only showcases how traders position themselves in anticipation of price movements but also offers insights into risk management techniques in volatile markets.