Altcoin Season Looms: Bullish Signs Emerge Amid Caution
In A Nutshell
Recent analyses have highlighted a brewing altcoin season, suggesting a potential upsurge in the value of various cryptocurrencies excluding Bitcoin (BTC). This anticipation stems from observed bullish trading patterns and a notable increase in the altcoin total market capitalization index. Despite Bitcoin’s struggle to maintain its crucial support level post-halving, altcoins, especially memecoins and layer 1 cryptocurrencies, have demonstrated superior performance. This development has sparked discussions on whether the altcoin season, a period characterized by significant gains in altcoin values over Bitcoin, is on the horizon.
Understanding Altcoin Season
Altcoin season, or “altseason,” refers to a phase in the cryptocurrency market where altcoins experience a substantial increase in value, often outperforming BTC. This phenomenon is typically driven by investor interest shifting towards altcoins due to their potential for higher risk-to-reward returns. Analyst Moustache pointed out that the altcoin total market cap, excluding BTC, showcased an ABC-correction phase completion according to the Wyckoff Method, signaling an imminent breakout.
Market Indicators and Analyst Insights
A significant observation by the same analyst on an earlier occasion noted that the altcoin market cap had emerged from a falling wedge on the monthly chart, a pattern reminiscent of the 2020 to 2021 market cycle. Additionally, entrepreneur and crypto investor Lark Davis highlighted the altcoin market cap’s reclamation of key support at the 50-day exponential moving average, although this support level was later lost. Nonetheless, a bullish cross from the moving average convergence divergence (MACD) indicator suggests readiness for an uptick in altcoin values.
Despite these positive indicators, caution remains. Following a robust performance in mid-March, most altcoins have seen a correction. Bitcoin also remains below its all-time high, with recent flash crashes threatening its stability. Sentiment towards altcoins is described as “pretty low” by analyst Daan Crypto Trades, reflecting a cautious outlook on the potential for an altseason.
Altcoin Season Index Overview
The altcoin season index by Blockchain Center provides a quantitative measure to ascertain whether it is indeed altcoin season. This index assesses the performance of the top 50 coins relative to Bitcoin over the last 90 days. Currently, only 41% of these leading altcoins have outperformed Bitcoin, falling short of the 75% threshold necessary to declare an altcoin season.
Our Take
The confluence of bullish trading patterns and market capitalization growth points towards an impending altcoin season. However, the cryptocurrency market’s inherent volatility and the current sentiment underscore the importance of cautious optimism. Investors and traders should remain vigilant, conducting thorough research and considering market indicators before making decisions. While the promise of higher returns may be enticing, the path to altcoin season remains fraught with uncertainty.
Although the altcoin season index suggests we are not quite there yet, the dynamic nature of the cryptocurrency market means situations can change rapidly. As always, a diversified and well-researched approach remains the prudent strategy in navigating the promising yet unpredictable waters of the cryptocurrency market.