Altcoin Dominance Drops to 27% as Bitcoin and Stablecoins Surge to 72%
1min read The crypto market is experiencing a shift, with altcoin dominance waning despite an increase in the number of exchanges and trading pairs. Currently, altcoins make up only 27% of the market, while Bitcoin and stablecoins command over 72%, marking their highest level since 2020. This trend indicates a market cycle characterized by resilience and caution rather than speculation and hype.
The number of active cryptocurrencies is also on the decline, shaping this altcoin cycle to be slower and more selective. While the market boasts over 100,000 trading pairs and more than 800 active exchanges, the sheer quantity does not guarantee quality. Many projects are either fading into irrelevance or being abandoned entirely, leaving fewer credible contenders in the market.
Despite the launch of more tokens, fewer are making a significant impact, suggesting that the next altseason, if it comes, won't be as broad-based as in previous cycles. Instead, it will likely be more selective, with projects that have real traction, strong narratives, or institutional interest leading the way.
The market is also seeing a shift towards consolidation rather than expansion. The total number of crypto pairs has decreased, dropping from its peak, which suggests the market is reducing excess rather than growing indiscriminately. This paradox highlights an expanding infrastructure built on a more cautious and selective trading environment.
Liquidity and attention are increasingly flowing into fewer, more trusted assets. Access has never been broader, but the risk appetite hasn’t kept pace. Bitcoin and stablecoins now make up 72% of the crypto market, reflecting a growing investor preference for safety and liquidity. Bitcoin offers long-term stability, while stablecoins provide predictability, together forming a risk-off foundation in a volatile market.
This surge in Bitcoin and stablecoin dominance, alongside a shrinking pool of active trading pairs, suggests investors are trimming risk and concentrating capital. When altseason does return, it won’t be broad-based like in past cycles. Instead, expect a more selective rally led by projects with real traction, strong narratives, or institutional interest.
