Crypto Bull Market 2026: Is the Bitcoin Rally Finally Turning Into an Altcoin Season?

The crypto market is witnessing an unexpected turnaround. Bitcoin is up over 20% for the week, reaching around $77,000. Ether is outperforming the leading cryptocurrency. Hundreds of billions of dollars are being funneled back into digital assets.

After months of speculation, the crypto bull market 2026 narrative is no longer a farce. However, the central question is whether the asset category is witnessing a broad-based recovery or if Bitcoin is merely a star performer.

There are clear signs that capital is rotating toward altcoins. Ether is outperforming Bitcoin, and several major altcoins are up over 10%. However, Bitcoin dominance remains remarkably strong. Related: Bitcoin Price Surges Past $79,000: Can BTC Still Hit $100K by Year-End?

The most popular Altcoin Season Index is nowhere near the critical threshold that would suggest an altseason is underway. So, is this the start of a crypto bull market 2026, or is it merely Bitcoin recovering? What Is Driving the Crypto Bull Market 2026?