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When Is It Altcoin Season: Key Indicators and Market Signals

Curious about when altcoin season starts? This article explains how to spot altcoin season using the Altcoin Season Index, Bitcoin dominance trends, and market data. Learn what triggers altcoin ral...
2025-11-11 12:37:00
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Understanding Altcoin Season: What Does It Mean?

When is it altcoin season? In the crypto world, this question is top of mind for traders and investors seeking higher returns outside of Bitcoin. Altcoin season refers to a period when alternative cryptocurrencies (altcoins) outperform Bitcoin over a sustained timeframe. The main tool for tracking this shift is the Altcoin Season Index, which measures the percentage of top 100 altcoins that have outperformed Bitcoin in the past 90 days. If 75% or more of these coins beat Bitcoin, the index signals the start of altcoin season.

As of November 2025, the Altcoin Season Index stands at 30-31, according to CoinMarketCap. This suggests Bitcoin is currently leading the market, but historical trends show that low index readings can precede strong altcoin rallies. Understanding these signals helps users make informed decisions and prepare for potential market shifts.

Key Metrics: Altcoin Season Index and Bitcoin Dominance

The Altcoin Season Index acts as a market thermometer. Scores near 100 indicate strong altcoin momentum, while lower numbers reflect Bitcoin dominance. For example, a recent drop to 30 means only 30% of top altcoins are outperforming Bitcoin. This metric is updated regularly and excludes stablecoins and wrapped tokens for accuracy.

Another important metric is Bitcoin dominance, which measures Bitcoin’s share of total crypto market capitalization. A decline in Bitcoin dominance often signals increased interest in altcoins. As reported on November 10, 2025, Bitcoin dominance printed its first red weekly candle after eight weeks of growth, hinting at a possible shift toward altcoins. Analysts note that if this trend continues, it could mark the early stages of an altcoin season, especially for mid-cap and high-utility tokens.

Market Trends and What Triggers Altcoin Season

Several factors can trigger altcoin season:

  • Market Psychology: Altcoin seasons often begin when market sentiment is low and investors seek new opportunities. Recent weekend rallies in altcoins suggest renewed retail interest.
  • Liquidity Inflows: Policy changes, such as the Federal Reserve’s quantitative easing set for December 2025, can inject liquidity into markets, potentially boosting altcoin performance.
  • Technological Developments: Upgrades and launches on Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchains (like Ethereum and Solana) attract users and developers, increasing demand for altcoins.
  • Bitcoin Stability: When Bitcoin’s price movement flattens, traders often rotate capital into altcoins seeking higher returns.

Despite these signals, some analysts caution that a true altcoin season requires the total altcoin market cap (excluding stablecoins) to reach new highs. Selective altcoin rallies do not always indicate a broad market shift.

How to Use Altcoin Season Signals in Your Strategy

When is it altcoin season? The answer depends on interpreting multiple indicators, not just a single metric. Here are practical steps for crypto users:

  • Diversify Wisely: Maintain Bitcoin exposure while selectively accumulating promising altcoins during low-index periods.
  • Monitor Trends: Watch for consistent upward movement in the Altcoin Season Index and declining Bitcoin dominance.
  • Research Projects: Focus on fundamentally strong altcoins with active development and growing user bases.
  • Set Alerts: Track when the index crosses key thresholds (e.g., above 50 or 75) to spot early signs of altcoin season.

Remember, the Altcoin Season Index is a valuable tool but should be combined with other data sources, such as trading volumes, on-chain activity, and macroeconomic trends. Always use a balanced approach and avoid impulsive decisions based on single data points.

Recent Developments and What to Watch Next

As of November 2025, the crypto market is in a transitional phase. Bitcoin dominance is showing signs of weakening, and the Altcoin Season Index remains low. However, analysts are closely watching for further declines in dominance and increases in altcoin trading volumes as potential signals for the next altcoin season.

New liquidity from central bank policies, upcoming blockchain upgrades, and shifting investor sentiment could all play a role in the timing of the next altcoin rally. For now, patience and preparation are key. Use this period to research, monitor key indicators, and position your portfolio for future opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Altcoin Season Index? It measures how many of the top 100 altcoins have outperformed Bitcoin over the past 90 days. A score of 75 or higher signals altcoin season.
  • How often is the index updated? The index is typically updated daily on CoinMarketCap.
  • Should I sell Bitcoin when altcoin season starts? Not necessarily. Many investors keep Bitcoin exposure while allocating a portion to altcoins for diversification.
  • Can the index predict exact timing? No, it indicates current trends but cannot guarantee future performance. Combine it with other analysis tools.
  • Where can I track these metrics? Market analysis tools on CoinMarketCap and Bitget provide up-to-date data on the Altcoin Season Index and Bitcoin dominance.

Further Exploration: Stay Ahead with Bitget

Understanding when is it altcoin season can give you a strategic edge in the fast-moving crypto market. Stay informed by regularly checking the Altcoin Season Index, monitoring Bitcoin dominance, and following the latest market news. For secure trading and portfolio management, consider using Bitget exchange and Bitget Wallet for all your crypto needs. Explore more insights and tools on Bitget to navigate the next market cycle with confidence.

The content above has been sourced from the internet and generated using AI. For high-quality content, please visit Bitget Academy.
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