Research

Bitcoin vs. Altcoin Season: Where the Market's Headed in 2025

In the ever-evolving world of crypto, understanding the cyclical relationship between Bitcoin and altcoins is crucial for successful trading.
Token Metrics Team
5 min
TMAI

Table of contents

Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of crypto, understanding the cyclical relationship between Bitcoin and altcoins is crucial for successful trading. During Token Metrics’ latest market update, Ian Balina highlighted key indicators pointing to a shift in momentum — possibly signaling the return of an altcoin season.

What Is Altcoin Season?
Altcoin season is a period in the crypto market where altcoins outperform Bitcoin in terms of price gains. Historically, this shift occurs when Bitcoin stabilizes after a rally, giving room for capital rotation into smaller-cap tokens with higher risk/reward potential.

Bitcoin’s Dominance and the Signs of Rotation
As of May 2025, Bitcoin remains a market anchor, but its dominance is showing signs of plateauing. Ian pointed out that capital is beginning to flow into AI tokens, new infrastructure plays, and community-driven projects like Launchcoin — which has already returned 35x gains. These trends are classic precursors to altcoin season.

Top Performing Altcoins Identified by Token Metrics
Token Metrics’ bold signals have identified several high-performing altcoins, such as:

  • Launchcoin: 35x gain since the signal triggered.
  • AI Infrastructure Tokens: Benefiting from the broader AI narrative in crypto.
  • DeFi 2.0 Protocols: Getting renewed attention amid institutional interest.

Key Indicators to Watch

  1. Bitcoin Dominance Chart – A drop below 50% dominance often precedes altcoin rallies.
  2. Volume Trends – Increasing volume on altcoin pairs indicates rising interest.
  3. Token Metrics Grades – Look for altcoins with high Trader and Investor Grades — a dual signal of short- and long-term strength.

How to Prepare Your Portfolio
Traders should consider gradual rotation — locking in BTC gains and reallocating to top-rated altcoins. Using Token Metrics’ tools:

  • Monitor daily signal updates
  • Filter by Trader Grade > 80 and recent bold signals
  • Keep an eye on AI and DeFi narratives, as they dominate 2025’s momentum

Conclusion
Whether we’re entering a full-blown altcoin season or just a mini-cycle, the signals are clear: capital is rotating. Use data, not guesswork. With Token Metrics’ AI-powered tools, you can identify high-potential opportunities and stay ahead of the curve in both Bitcoin and altcoin markets.

Token Metrics Team

The Token Metrics Team comprises blockchain and cryptocurrency experts dedicated to providing accurate information and empowering investors. Through our blog, we aim to educate and inspire readers to navigate the world of cryptocurrencies confidently.

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Create Your Free Token Metrics Account

Access our Ratings Page for valuable token insights
Explore our Market Page for a comprehensive market overview
Stay in the loop with exclusive weekly Newsletters filled with insider tips and updates
Join our private Telegram group for exclusive community access
Create Your Free Account

Create Your Free Token Metrics Account

Access our Analytics Platform for valuable token insights
Stay in the loop with exclusive weekly Newsletters filled with insider tips and updates
Create Your Free Account

Create Your Free Token Metrics Account

Create Your Free Account
Access our Analytics Platform for valuable token insights
Stay in the loop with exclusive weekly Newsletters filled with insider tips and updates