On September 22, 2026, a crypto metric signaled the start of an altseason as Bitcoin's market-cap share stalled below 60%. According to the report from Cointelegraph, Glassnode's Altcoin Cycle Signal printed a new altseason signal after a month of Bitcoin and altcoin market-cap gains.

Introduction to Altseason

Altseason is a period when altcoins outperform Bitcoin in combined market-cap growth. This phenomenon is closely watched by crypto investors and analysts, as it can indicate a shift in market sentiment and trends. The current altseason signal is based on Glassnode's Altcoin Cycle Signal, which compares the market cap of the 250 largest cryptocurrencies relative to Bitcoin. As noted by CoinDesk, the growth of altcoins can be attributed to various factors, including increased adoption and innovation in the crypto space. A report by Deloitte supports this, stating that the crypto market is expected to continue growing, with increased adoption and innovation driving the market forward.

Bitcoin's rise to $86,000 this week has dragged altcoin markets higher, with the industry's market cap reclaiming $3 trillion. The combined altcoin market cap reached $1.19 trillion on Tuesday, marking its highest level since late January. Altcoins have increased their market capitalization by 33% since August 19, when crypto markets saw flash upside on the back of an announcement by the US Treasury over interventions in bond markets. This growth in altcoin market capitalization is a key indicator of the start of an altseason. Bitcoin's dominance over the total crypto market cap has continued to act within a narrow range since August 19, and currently sits at 59.7% versus 59.2% on August 19.

Altseason Implications for Investors

The current altseason signal has significant implications for crypto investors and traders. As the market shifts towards altcoins, investors may need to reassess their portfolios and strategies. The growth of altcoins presents opportunities for investors who are able to navigate the market effectively. However, altseason is often associated with increased market volatility, which can be a risk for investors who are not prepared. Investors can check live crypto prices to stay up-to-date on the latest market movements.

Crypto ETFs and Investor Demand

Crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have seen a broad rebound in investor demand across both Bitcoin and altcoin products this week. On Monday, the US spot Bitcoin ETFs saw combined inflows of $999 million, while Ether (ETH) ETFs took in $270 million. In both cases, the daily tally was the highest since October 2025, per data from UK-based investment company Farside Investors. This increase in investor demand for crypto ETFs is a positive sign for the market, as it indicates that investors are becoming more confident in the crypto space. As reported by Bloomberg, the growth of crypto ETFs can be attributed to increased institutional investment in the crypto market.

Market Volatility and Altseason

Altseason is often associated with increased market volatility, as altcoins can be more prone to price swings than Bitcoin. However, this volatility can also present opportunities for investors and traders who are able to navigate the market effectively. The recent options expiry, as discussed in /posts/bitcoin-breaches-86k-prompting-analysts-to-declare-a-new-bull-market-260921, showed that the market is becoming increasingly bullish. Furthermore, the growth of altcoins and the increase in investor demand for crypto ETFs are positive signs for the market.

Altcoins Outperform Bitcoin

In conclusion, the crypto metric signal of an altseason, combined with the current market trends and Bitcoin dominance, suggests that altcoins may continue to outperform Bitcoin in the short term. The growth of altcoins and the increase in investor demand for crypto ETFs are positive signs for the market. As the altseason continues, investors and traders should be prepared for increased market volatility and potential opportunities for growth.

What to Watch Next

As the altseason continues, investors and traders should keep a close eye on market trends and developments. The growth of altcoins and the increase in investor demand for crypto ETFs are positive signs for the market, but increased market volatility is also a potential risk. Investors and traders should stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly, and be prepared for potential opportunities and challenges in the crypto market. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining the direction of the crypto market, and investors and traders should be prepared for increased activity and potential changes in market trends.

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