According to Eric Balchunas, a recent poll reveals that 80% of participants are maintaining long positions, with 62% expressing a bullish outlook. Notably, even among the 38% who are bearish, two-thirds are still long. This sentiment helps explain why the S&P 500 has only declined by 5% instead of a potential 20%. Balchunas refers to this phenomenon as the 'Vanguard Put,' suggesting a hedging strategy through index funds.