And with these major losses... The fear factor is really starting to weigh-in. But as 23 News Reporter Kristin Burke explains.. some financial experts say it's this *fear that's devastating our economy

"I think you have to get rid of this fear overhang. I think there is fear overhanging the market and that's really what's impeeding a bull market from being established."

Marc Simpson is the chairman of finance at NIU. He says our current economic woes are being driven by incessant worry and fear.

" There is a real aspect to it and it is definitely overblown and that fear feeds on itself ".

But Simpson says.. we need to put this crisis in perspective.. and turn this short term loss into a long term opportunity. He says that's what will restore confidence.

Warren Buffet has a quote that says the time to be greedy is the time everyone else is fearful. The market will go up and down and it actually goes up more than down

And we get similar advice from a local financial advisor.

"you need to understand your risk tolerance.. how much risk are you willing to take in.. if you can't sleep at night you shouldnt have your money in the market.. stay with the course don't panic and invest in quality."

And Pond says.. if the past is a good indicator of the future... time *is on our side.
"The market always corrects itself "
"The stock market is the best long term investment."

He believes a bull market is on the horizon. In the Stateline... Kristin Burke 23 News Right Now.