Altcoin Bull Runs & the Bitcoin Connection

Jeff Sekinger
3 min readNov 17, 2023

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Altcoins, or alternative cryptocurrencies, are essentially any cryptocurrency that isn’t Bitcoin. Altcoins have a unique and sometimes symbiotic relationship with Bitcoin that often becomes more pronounced during crypto bull runs. Here’s a brief exploration of how altcoin bull runs can be intertwined with the movements of Bitcoin.

It should be noted that investing will always carry inherent risk, particularly crypto investing which is particularly high risk and volatile. In fact, the crypto market is notorious for its high risk. No expert, analyst, or anyone else can ever predict market trends or specific prices with certainty, but can only make guesses or at best, educated guesses. Even algorithmic trading software, while a potentially powerful tool, cannot eliminate risk or promise profitable returns. As a general rule, investors and traders should never invest more than they can afford to lose.

Dependency on Bitcoin’s Momentum

Altcoins often follow Bitcoin’s lead during bull runs. This isn’t a set in stone rule, but it’s been the overall trend in previous cycles. Bitcoin, as the first, most dominant, and most widely recognized cryptocurrency in the world, tends to set the overall market sentiment. When Bitcoin spikes in price action, investors often turn their attention to altcoins thereafter, seeking higher returns and diversification within the crypto space.

Bitcoin as a Market Indicator

Bitcoin’s overall performance is viewed as a key indicator of the overall health and sentiment of the crypto space. During a Bitcoin bull run, confidence in the entire market often increases, potentially leading to heightened interest in altcoins. Conversely, a Bitcoin bear market can result in reduced enthusiasm for altcoins.

Amplification of Gains and Losses

Altcoins have the potential to amplify both gains and losses during a Bitcoin bull run. When Bitcoin experiences a price surge, some investors may allocate funds to altcoins, hoping for even greater returns. Investors and traders should always have a solid plan in place, rather than investing according to the whims and mood of the day. During market corrections, altcoins can experience sharp declines, reflecting the heightened volatility inherent in the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem. Remember, the crypto market is inherently high-risk. In fact, it’s notorious for its extreme risk and volatility. Tall markets are high risk, and traders and investors should approach all investing with caution, particularly crypto investing.

Technological Innovations and Unique Value Propositions

Some altcoins may experience bull runs independently of Bitcoin, driven by their unique technological features or value propositions. Coins with innovative use cases, partnerships, or technological advancements may attract attention and investment, leading to individual bull runs even if Bitcoin’s movement is relatively stable.

Market Rotation and Diversification

Altcoin bull runs may sometimes coincide with a market rotation as investors seek new opportunities. During periods of relative Bitcoin stability or consolidation, capital may flow into specific altcoins, driven by factors such as new project developments, partnerships, or shifts in industry trends, among other factors and considerations.

Caution in Market Dynamics

While some altcoins can present exciting investment opportunities, investors should exercise caution. Not all cryptocurrencies have any underlying value or technology behind them. Investors should do thorough research prior to investing in any crypto. The crypto market’s volatility means that while gains can potentially be substantial, losses can be equally or even more sharp. Conducting thorough research and understanding the fundamentals of individual altcoins are essential for informed decision making and for developing a crypto-centric financial plan.

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