Understanding Investor Psychology During Market Crashes
This time it’s different? Why your brain betrays you in a market crash
The Economic TimesImage: The Economic Times
In December 2023, the Nifty 50 index in India peaked at 21,731, but many stocks have since declined. Experienced investors express uncertainty about the current market, influenced by psychological biases like myopic loss aversion. This article explores how the 'Remembering Self' and 'Experiencing Self' affect investment decisions during market downturns.
- 01The Nifty 50 index reached a high of 21,731 in December 2023 but is now facing declines.
- 02Experienced investors are hesitant to invest during the current market downturn.
- 03Psychological biases, such as myopic loss aversion, impact decision-making.
- 04Daniel Kahneman's concept of 'Two Selves' explains how memories influence investor behavior.
- 05Investors can mitigate risks by staggering investments during market volatility.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In December 2023, the Nifty 50 index in India reached a record high of 21,731, but many stocks have since fallen below this level. As of March 2026, experienced investors express uncertainty about the market's bottom, with many retracting their plans to invest during the downturn. This hesitance is attributed to psychological biases, particularly myopic loss aversion and recency bias. Daniel Kahneman, a Nobel Prize-winning psychologist, introduced the concept of 'Two Selves' in his book *Thinking, Fast and Slow*, explaining how the 'Remembering Self' and 'Experiencing Self' shape our perceptions and decisions. While the 'Remembering Self' recalls past profitable investments during market crashes, the 'Experiencing Self' endures the emotional pain of losses, leading to a belief that 'this time it’s different.' Investors often sell near market bottoms due to fear, but with the right approach, such as staggering investments through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) or Systematic Transfer Plans (STPs), they can navigate volatility and capitalize on market cycles. Understanding these psychological factors is crucial for making informed investment decisions.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Investors may experience increased anxiety and indecision during market downturns, potentially leading to poor investment choices.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How do you approach investing during market downturns?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.

