Which of the following describes a common feature of a bear market?

In the context of a bear market, decreased consumer spending is a significant feature. A bear market is typically characterized by a downturn in the economy, often accompanied by falling stock prices, reduced investor confidence, and broader economic concerns. During such periods, consumers may become more cautious about their spending due to dwindling investment portfolios, job insecurities, and an overall pessimistic outlook regarding economic conditions. This loss of confidence results in lower expenditure on goods and services, thereby contributing to the economic slowdown.

Other options, like increased trading volume or negative stock prices, can happen during a bear market but are not as directly tied to consumer behavior. Increased investor confidence is generally associated with a bull market, where optimism prevails, leading to increased spending and investment. Thus, decreased consumer spending accurately encapsulates the behavior seen during a bear market, reflecting the overall economic sentiment during those times.