We are still in the bear market I believe. But what I see and observe is that some traders are taking advantage of the market dip which makes them profitable also. I guess bear mode is important because the market needs to go through a cycle and bear cannot be avoided.
Exactly, its stupid to just think that market should always go up. Bear and bull runs both need to be respected. And individuals need to adapt to these changes and trends rather than hope that the trend adapts to their own analysis or hopes.
After the massive bull run a period of consolidation was and is absolutely necessary.
I personally feel its will drop significantly further, before going on another bull run after 2 years or so.