The term altseason refers to the crucial period when altcoins outperform Bitcoin. Yet, despite mounting hype, the market has not entered its premium cycle. This timely analysis explores why altseason has not come yet, referencing live metrics like Bitcoin dominance (63%) and real‑time altcoin season index readings (around 28–35). We’ll discuss key factors holding back broad‑based altcoin rallies.
What’s Holding Back Altseason? 🤔
1. Altcoin Season Index Remains Low
The Altcoin Season Index measures how many of the top 100 altcoins have outperformed Bitcoin over 90 days. A reading above 75 signals a strong altcycle. Currently, index values remain in the 20–35 range, indicating a market dominated by Bitcoin, not altcoins. Market sentiment hasn’t fully shifted.
2. Bitcoin Dominance Is Elevated
Bitcoin holds approximately 63–64% of crypto market cap. That level is typical for “Bitcoin season” and hampers altcoin capital inflow. Historical trends show altseason only follows when dominance drops to ~40–50%.

3. Capital Flows Into Bitcoin ETFs
Recent institutional inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs—led by iShares—total over $115 billion. That money reinforces BTC dominance and leaves less liquidity for altcoins.
4. Macro Environment Favors Bitcoin
Bitcoin is seen as a lower‑risk digital asset in tight liquidity or high‑rate conditions. Fed hawkishness has kept altcoin capital constrained. Only once macro pressure eases are risk‑on moves likely.
5. Speculation Concentrates on Micro‑Caps & Memecoins
Instead of funding mid‑large cap altcoins, speculative money is chasing memecoins and micro‑caps — creating fragmented gains and blunting a broad altseason.
6. Alt‑Bear Market Lengthens
The current altbear cycle has extended longer than past cycles—over 1,200 days—delaying any shift to sustained altcoin leadership.
What Could Trigger Altseason?
2025 Catalysts to Watch
• Fed Easing & Increased Liquidity
Once interest rates are cut, surplus liquidity could flood into risk‑on assets, benefiting altcoins.
• ETH/BTC Macro Breakout
If Ethereum begins outperforming Bitcoin—technically or on usage—it could signal altcoin momentum.
• Post‑Halving Rotation
Typically, altcycle follows 6–9 months after a Bitcoin halving. That timing aligns with mid‑2025 for a potential rotation.
• Declining BTC Dominance
A drop in Bitcoin dominance toward 40–50% would reflect capital rotating into quality alt assets.
Real‑Time Metrics Snapshot
| Metric | Current | Altseason Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Altcoin Season Index | ~28–35 | > 75 |
| BTC Dominance | ~63% | < 50% |
| ETF Inflows | Strong | Rotate to alts |
| Macro Liquidity | Tight | Easing phase |
| Cycle Age | 1,200 days | Restarting |
Ready for an Altcoin Focus?
To prepare, track:
Key Takeaways
Altseason hasn’t started because market leadership remains with BTC, institutional funding favors Bitcoin, macro pressures limit speculative risk appetite, and altcoins are stuck in a long consolidation. That said, a window may open mid‑2025, as liquidity improves, Ethereum breaks out, and dominance shifts toward altcoins.
H3 Strategic Insights
Monitor index readings and watch for major macro shifts. Focus investment on altcoins with real fundamental use‑cases. A breakout in Ethereum and other quality assets could herald the long‑awaited altseason.
H4 Final Thoughts
While hype is tempting, patient investors should wait for definitive signals: Altcoin leadership in index data, BTC dominance trending down, and macro‑driven capital flow into risk assets. That convergence may finally unleash the altcycle.
Read Also: ETH Outperforms Bitcoin by 50%: Altseason Surge Reshapes Crypto Portfolio Strategy
Disclaimer!! The information provided by CryptopianNews is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile and speculative, and investing in them carries inherent risks. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
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