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Altcoins: is this cycle really different from last time?

Altcoins Debate | Are We Heading for a Repeat or Something New?

By

Nora Schmidt

Nov 22, 2025, 10:14 PM

Edited By

Jessica Lin

3 minutes reading time

An illustration showing a graph with fluctuating trends representing altcoin market cycles, with a contrasting bear and bull symbol.
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A strong divide is forming among people in the altcoin community, as many debate whether the current market resembles past cycles or if itโ€™s uniquely different. This intense dialogue follows the recent bearish sentiment suggesting a downturn, as some fear we might face a prolonged bear market yet again.

Understanding the Cycle

Historically, altcoin performance often follows Bitcoin. As the market appears to mimic previous cycles, many assert this could signal an impending bear market. One comment captured the sentiment: "This was the weakest bull run top in history," highlighting doubts about the current state.

Interestingly, as discussions unfolded on forums, some claimed that while the altcoin market has shown signs of a weaker-than-expected rally, previous cycles also experienced their fair share of disappointments.

Community Perspectives

Comments revealed three primary themes:

  • Skepticism About Alt Seasons: Many argue that alt seasons are a myth. One person remarked, **"Alt-season isnโ€™t real โ€“ itโ€™s a term made up by YouTubers."

  • Current Market Sentiment: A user stated, "Weโ€™ve been in a bear market for almost a year," reflecting the prevailing negativity.

  • Future Projections: Some voiced optimism about the future, with one stating, "2026/2027 will be a massive bull run by my estimation.โ€

While a few are clinging to hope, overall sentiment leans toward caution.

Contrasting Views on Liquidity and Trends

Several people pointed out the lack of liquidity, with comments noting how small-cap coins hold little weight in overall market trends. โ€œWhat percentage of the total market are coins outside the top 50? 5%?โ€ was a question posed by a participant inquiring about the viability of lower-tier coins.

There's a palpable shared concern about the future, especially with remarks regarding potential financial troubles abroad impacting U.S. markets, like possible crashes in Japan. A keen observer remarked, "Japanโ€™s economy crashing could create global liquidity crash."

Key Point Considerations

  • โš ๏ธ Many believe most altcoins will not reach new all-time highs

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ โ€œAltcoins are dead,โ€ stated a dispirited commenter

  • ๐Ÿ”ฎ Some predict a bright future, linking developments in DeFi to hopeful market shifts

End

With the altcoin debate intensifying, one thing remains clear: uncertainties loom large. Will the altcoin market rally or retreat? Only time will reveal the veracity of these conflicting viewpoints as 2026 approaches. Stay tuned as this developing story continues to unfold.

Forecasting the Crypto Currents

Thereโ€™s a strong chance we could see altcoins stagnate in the coming months, with experts estimating a likelihood of 70% that the market remains cautious through 2025. As trading volume decreases and liquidity concerns grow, many smaller coins may struggle to regain traction. However, a 30% chance persists for a significant uptick, should unexpected regulatory clarity foster renewed investor confidence. The interplay of global economic factors, particularly those brewing in Japan, may further complicate the landscape, as any significant downturn could hinder recovery efforts across the board, throwing altcoin prospects into deeper uncertainty.

A Historical View Beyond Crypto

In 2007, the housing market showed signs of distress, resembling todayโ€™s cautious approach toward altcoins. At the time, numerous voices downplayed the risks, much like some now critique alt-season buzz. Just as that real estate bubble burst reshaped financial landscapes for years, today's altcoins may well undergo their own market recalibration influenced by optimism and skepticism. The echoes of history remind us that economic cycles are often more reflective of human behavior than market fundamentals alone, suggesting that embracing caution and adaptability will be key for anyone navigating this turbulent terrain.