A sustained period of generally rising stock prices is called a bull market.
The term describes broad market optimism, rising demand for securities, and expectations that prices may continue increasing. It usually refers to a major index or the market as a whole, rather than one company’s shares. In common U.S. usage, a bull market is often identified after prices rise at least 20% from a recent low, although definitions can vary by market and institution.
Bull markets can last months or years. They often coincide with expanding corporate profits, economic growth, or lower interest rates, but rising prices can also reflect investor expectations about the future. The opposite condition is a bear market, generally associated with a decline of 20% or more from a recent peak.
A bull market does not mean every stock rises, and it does not guarantee that prices will continue upward. Investors still face volatility, valuation risk, and possible reversals.