6 Straight Losing Quarters.

With a decline of 11.7% during the first quarter the S&P 500 ended the quarter lower for the 6th straight time. This is only the 2nd time in history of the index that it has declined for 6 straight down quarters. Based on Friday's close the S&P 500 has lost 47.7% of its value during its current losing streak. To make matters worse for investors, the bear market grew fiercer as time progressed. As shown below the last two quarters have also been the weakest of the losing streak:

12.31.07.........-3.8% decline
3.31.08...........-9.9% decline
6.30.08..........-3.2% decline
9.30.08..........-8.9% decline
12.31.08........-22.6% decline
3.31.09..........-11.7% decline

Source: B.I.G Tips, BeSpoke Investments, 4.3.09

*Long ETFs related to the S&P 500.