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Altcoin Season: understanding this opportunity   

The altcoin season is a buzzword in the cryptocurrency industry (crypto-asset or digital asset as the ACPR officially calls it). But more than just a buzzword, it’s a crucial period when altcoins, those digital currencies other than Bitcoin, take centre stage. If you’re a crypto investor, this famous altcoin season can be a very lucrative phase. 

An essential resource, this guide explains everything you need to know.

To remember

  • Signals and indicators:
    • Knowing when to enter and exit the market: scenarios 
    • Bitcoin’s dominance 
    • Season index 
    • Market capitalisation of altcoins  
  • Expert consultation: Use of specialist financial services such as Delubac for expert advice 
  • Mistakes to avoid: Avoiding FOMO (fear of missing out), lack of research and ignoring transaction costs
  • Season length: Understanding timing to maximise gains 
  • Preparing for the next altcoin season:
    • Education and research 
    • Portfolio preparation 
    • Drawing up an investment budget 

Altcoin season, Alt season, what is it? Definition 

The altcoin season is a period when most altcoins, i.e. all crypto-assets other than Bitcoin, are seeing a significant increase in value. 

Analysts see this season as a golden opportunity for investors looking to diversify their portfolios. Imagine investing in a little-known alternative to bitcoin and seeing its value soar: the returns could be colossal. 

Pourquoi les altcoins suivent le cours du Bitcoin ?

La saison commence généralement lorsque la domination du Bitcoin sur le marché diminue. Autrement dit, quand le Bitcoin stagne ou perd de la valeur, les investisseurs cherchent des opportunités ailleurs, ce qui conduit à une hausse de la capitalisation boursière des altcoins.  

C’est un moment où la vigilance et l’information sont cruciales pour les investisseurs. On considère donc que le Bticoin est une réserve de valeur tandis que les atcoins ont une dimension d’innovation technologique. 

Why do altcoins follow the Bitcoin price?

The season generally begins when Bitcoin’s dominance of the market diminishes. In other words, when Bitcoin stagnates or loses value, investors look for opportunities elsewhere, leading to an increase in the market capitalisation of altcoins.  

This is a time when vigilance and information are crucial for investors. Bticoin is therefore seen as a store of value, while atcoins have a technological innovation dimension. 

Bitcoin Cycle and Index 

One of the most reliable indicators is the dominance of Bitcoin. When this starts to fall, it often means that investors are turning to altcoins. In 2022, the fall in Bitcoin’s dominance was significant, dropping from 65% to around 40% according to CoinMarketCap data. It’s as if altcoins are starting to steal the show from the star of the show.  

Another metric to keep an eye on is the season index, which measures the performance of altcoins relative to Bitcoin. 

Crypto price movements 

During an altcoin season, many altcoins increase in value. It’s not just one or two assets whose prices rise, but a wide range. This includes well-established cryptos as well as new crypto projects still in pre-sale. 

Investor sentiment and predictions 

Technological developments, collaborations, partnership announcements, legislation, geopolitics and other factors can influence the market. Online forums, social networks and news reports give an indication of trends.  A positive attitude can often fuel an altcoin season. So stay tuned to the views in the crypto community. 

Alt season graph: Blockchain center indicators 

The altcoin season has no specific period and it is difficult to predict exactly when it will occur. However, it generally occurs when the price of Bitcoin is stable or rising, which creates investor interest in altcoins. 

To be sure, we need to monitor market performance: if a proportion (75%) of the top 50 altcoins (excluding stablecoins and asset-backed tokens) have performed better than Bitcoin over the last three months, then we are in altcoin season. 

top 50 altcoins mars juin 2024

What are the signs of an altcoin season?

One of the trickiest aspects of cryptocurrency investing is knowing when to enter and exit the market. When it comes to altcoin season, there are several signals to watch out for. 

  1. Bitcoin dominance: When Bitcoin’s market share starts to decline, it’s often a sign that altcoins are gaining ground. Keep an eye on the Bitcoin Domination Index.  
     
  2. Market volatility: A sudden increase in volatility can indicate that something big is about to happen. 
    However, volatility is a double-edged sword and should be approached with caution.  
     
  3. Market sentiment: Tools such as online polls, sentiment analysis on social networks and forums can give an idea of general market sentiment. Positive sentiment can often precede an altcoin season.  
     
  4. Technical analysis: Indicators such as moving averages, Bollinger bands and the RSI can also provide clues. However, no indicator is infallible.  
     
  5. News and events: Keep an eye on news that could have an impact on the crypto market. For example, the adoption of favourable regulations or the launch of new projects may stimulate interest in altcoins.  
     
  6. Season Index: Some sites offer an “altcoin season index” which takes into account various factors to assess the likelihood of an altcoin season. While this index can be useful, it should not be the only factor in the decision. 

In summary, there is no foolproof way to predict an altcoin season, but by keeping an eye on these signals and doing your due diligence, you can increase your chances of success. 

How long does an altcoin season last? 

The duration of an altcoin season can vary considerably, from a few weeks to several months. It is difficult to give a precise answer, as several factors come into play: 

  1. Market cycle: The cryptoasset market is cyclical, with bull runs and bear markets. An altcoin season can last as long as the market is in a bull phase.  
     
  2. News and events: As mentioned above, news can have a significant impact. For example, the announcement of a major company investing in a specific altcoin could extend the season.  
     
  3. Investor behaviour: Investor psychology also plays a role. If users think the season is going to last, they are more likely to invest, which can effectively extend the season.  
     
  4. Technology and adoption: altcoins with solid use cases and growing adoption are more likely to maintain their value over a longer period. 

It is therefore essential to stay informed and follow market trends to maximise your gains during an altcoin season. 

How can we prepare for the next altcoin season?

The next altcoin season may be unpredictable, but there are steps you can take to prepare for it. Here are a few tips on how to be ready when the next wave of opportunity arrives. 

Education and research 

The first step in preparing for the next altcoin season is to do your own research. Familiarise yourself with the terms in the crypto lexicon, the different types of tokens alternative to bitcoin and the blockchains they run on.also find out about each project’s market capitalisation, development team, and adoption. 

The best-known are: bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Ripple (XRP), Litecoin (LTC), Tezos (XTZ), etc. 

Market analysis 

Keep an eye on market indicators such as Bitcoin dominance, the season index, and total altcoin market capitalisation. These indicators can give you clues as to whether an altcoin season is imminent. 

Selecting altcoins 

Make a list of altcoins that interest you and start following them. Use criteria such as growth potential, the strength of the development team and the usefulness of the token to make your selection. 

Portfolio configuration 

Make sure your cryptocurrency portfolio is ready for new assets. This may include setting up specific wallets for certain types of tokens or checking that your current wallet supports the altcoins you are considering buying. 

Drawing up a budget 

Decide how much you are prepared to invest and divide this amount between the different altcoins you have selected. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. 

Transaction planning 

Have a clear plan for your trades, including the levels at which you want to buy and sell. Use tools such as stop-loss orders to minimise risk. 

By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to take advantage of the many opportunities the upcoming altcoin season can offer. The crypto-asset market is volatile and risky, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success. Adopt a solid strategy and make buying the best altcoins a strategic investment decision! 

Mistakes to avoid when altcoin season 

The altcoin season can be an exciting time, but it’s also fraught with potential pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes investors should look to avoid. 

Lack of research 

One of the most common mistakes is not doing enough research into the altcoins you invest in. A lack of DYOR (Do Your Own Research) can cost you dearly. 

FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) 

LFOMO can lead you to make impulsive decisions, such as buying an altcoin just because it is soaring. This often ends with you buying at the top of the market, followed by a sharp correction. 

Ignore transaction fees  

Transaction costs can quickly add up, especially if you trade frequently. Make sure you take these costs into account when calculating your potential gains and losses. 

Neglecting safety

Security is crucial in the crypto world. Use secure wallets, enable two-factor authentication and make sure your computer and network are secure. 

Lack of diversification  

Putting all your eggs in one basket is a risky strategy. Diversification can help you minimise losses in the event of a market downturn. 

Ignoring market signals  

Technical indicators and market signals are there for a reason. Ignoring them can cost you dearly in terms of missed opportunities or avoidable losses. 

Not having a plan 

Investing without a clear plan is like navigating without a map. You need to have a well-defined strategy, with clear objectives and measures to achieve those objectives. 

Do not consult experts 

If you are new to the world of crypto-assets, it may be useful to consult experts or specialist financial services. Information is abundant and easily accessible on the internet, which can make it all the more complex to be reliable and understand.   

Contact the experts at a crypto-friendly bank to help you diversify your assets! 

Remember, investing is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time, do your research and invest wisely.   

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