Bull run in crypto: myth or reality in the Bitcoin market in 2026?

Currently, the cryptocurrency market is showing signs of active growth, which many participants are calling the start of a new bull run. Since September 2024, Bitcoin has been trending upward on major timeframes, and the current price of $72,300 with a daily increase of +2.68% confirms this movement’s continuation. But is this really the beginning of a powerful bull run, or just another market correction?

What does the term “bull run” mean, and how does it differ from a bull market?

Let’s start with definitions, as many beginner traders confuse these concepts. The term bull run describes a short period of intense price increases of assets, usually lasting from a few days to several weeks. It’s a sharp jump fueled by waves of enthusiasm, positive news, and active capital inflows into the market.

In contrast, a bull market is a long-term trend of sustained growth that can last months or even years. A bull market is characterized by participant confidence, optimism, and steady price increases, whereas a bull run is a more wild, explosive movement, often part of a larger bull trend or an independent phenomenon.

In the crypto sphere, bull runs are especially vivid due to high asset volatility. Such surges are often triggered by key events: approval of Bitcoin ETFs, regulatory changes, announcements from major corporate investors, or network upgrades.

How to identify a real bull run: key signals for investors

If you want to stay ahead of the market and spot a bull run early, pay attention to these indicators:

Sharp increase in price and trading volume. Usually, a true bull run is accompanied not only by rising prices but also by significant increases in trading volume. When demand suddenly rises, prices climb, attracting new participants and creating a self-sustaining growth cycle.

Wave of optimism in the crypto community. During the development phase of a bull run, media coverage of crypto topics intensifies, analysts give positive forecasts, and search queries about Bitcoin and other assets increase. Social signals become a good barometer of sentiment.

Institutional money inflows. When large hedge funds, pension funds, and corporations start buying crypto assets, it usually indicates serious market interest. News of such acquisitions strongly influences price dynamics and lends credibility to the upward movement.

Regulatory shifts and technological breakthroughs. Approvals of new crypto ETFs, positive legislative changes, or major network updates often serve as catalysts for a bull run. In early 2024, the introduction of Bitcoin ETFs indeed boosted market growth.

Altcoin season attention. A classic bull run scenario: Bitcoin first rises, then funds flow into alternative coins. When lesser-known assets start showing double-digit gains, it often signals that a bull run is in full swing.

Has the current price increase begun another bull run?

At present, signs indicating the start of a new bull run are indeed increasing. Here are some points to watch:

Upward trend on major timeframes. Since mid-2024, Bitcoin has demonstrated steady growth on weekly and monthly charts. This upward trend is confirmed by rising technical indicators, which is a good sign for a potential larger movement.

Growing interest from large investors. Throughout 2024-2025, major financial institutions and corporations have consistently announced their entry into crypto assets. This systematic flow of institutional capital fuels upward pressure on prices.

Positive regulatory environment. Approvals of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs in various jurisdictions, increasing recognition of cryptocurrencies at the government level—all these create a foundation for long-term growth. Analysts note that regulatory support is one of the main factors for a sustainable bull market.

Altcoin season activation. In recent months of 2025 and early 2026, many alternative coins have shown noticeable growth, aligning with the classic scenario of a developed bull run.

Technical indicator signals. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) for Bitcoin on higher timeframes is at levels historically associated with the start of previous bullish periods. While not a 100% guarantee, such coincidence warrants attention.

Potential target levels. Based on current dynamics, analysts name such target levels for Bitcoin: $83,000 and $90,000. These levels have not yet been reached, indicating potential for further growth.

Why beginners often mistake a bull run and how to avoid it

Despite the presence of indicators, novice investors often misjudge a bull run. Here’s why:

Confusing correction with the start of a bull run. Local price jumps caused by speculation or manipulation by large players can be mistaken for the beginning of a real bull run. Short-term growth does not guarantee a sustainable trend.

Buying at the peak of emotions. Most losing trades are made by beginners entering at the height of hype when everyone talks about quick profits. As a result, they face sharp corrections and lose money.

Ignoring fundamental factors. Technical analysis often relies solely on charts, neglecting to check the fundamental market conditions, news background, and actual reasons for growth.

Lack of risk management. Even if you correctly identify the start of a bull run, it’s crucial to have a clear plan for managing positions, setting stop-losses, and taking profits.

The best approach is to combine technical analysis (studying charts, indicators, volumes) with fundamental analysis (monitoring news, regulatory changes, actions of major players). Before entering a position, ensure you see confirmation of a bull run from multiple angles.

Currently, signals indeed look favorable for the development of a major bull run. However, remember: the market loves surprises. Watch indicators, analyze fundamentals, practice risk management—and you’ll have the best chance for profit in a rising market.