Will 2026 Finally Deliver the Altseason Rally? Market Experts Weigh In on Crypto's Next Chapter

The cryptocurrency market is buzzing with speculation about what lies ahead beyond 2025, particularly regarding the long-awaited altseason moment. With technical signals like RSI and MACD showing intriguing patterns, coupled with macroeconomic tailwinds including modest inflation levels and the prospect of quantitative easing measures, conditions appear favorable for a major altcoin rally in the coming years.

The debate intensifying within the analyst community reveals a clear divide. One camp points to Bitcoin’s October 2025 peak at $126,000 as evidence that the current bull cycle has run its course, suggesting that the explosive growth phase has already been realized. These bearish voices contend that expecting a mega altseason represents wishful thinking rather than sound market analysis.

On the opposing side, respected market observers including Raoul Pal champion a different narrative. They envision an extended 5-year supercycle that could push the broader bull market well into 2026 and beyond. Under this scenario, altcoins would experience their most powerful surge during the first half of 2026, particularly in Q1 and Q2. This thesis suggests that 2025 never truly delivered the anticipated altseason peak, leaving significant upside potential for the second tier of crypto assets.

The contrasting perspectives hinge on whether the current cycle represents a completed bull run or merely an early chapter in a longer-term expansion. Supporting evidence varies—bearish analysts cite price peaks and historical cycle patterns, while bullish proponents highlight the absence of classic altseason signals in 2025 and point to strengthening macro conditions that could fuel the next wave of outperformance for alternative cryptocurrencies.

As the market approaches year-end, this altseason debate will likely intensify, with investors watching for confirmation signals that could validate either the cautious or optimistic outlook for 2026.