I personally prefer to start companies and new ventures “all the time”. Keep experimenting is my motto.
That said I have been more successful building on new ideas when the “market is not so good”.
Why? Since I have been largely working on software ideas, they involved hiring and building small technical teams.
It is “easier” to hire during a downturn is what I have seen.
While many folks prefer to stay at a large company to “weather the storm”, the good folks can get new opportunities all the time.
They tend to look for interesting new work that can keep them engaged for 2-3 years instead of treading water.
Best Engaging Communities 
But seriously how can u eat …drink …..sleep only about new ideas and start up
Hat off to u sir
Probably true for the west, here in India, hiring for startups is always a challenge good days or bad days doesnt matter 🙂