A near-global market meltdown, the start of a bear market and a record loss by a rogue trader were all we needed to kick off 2008 in style. Market historians say a negative return in January usually portends a down year for the equity indexes. Still, a climactic sell-off that put stocks at recession levels left the pickings looking pretty good. At 15 worries, the Wall remains in fear territory, but off the ledge for now. Enjoy the bear market rallies, but handle your portfolio with care.
