Bitcoin News Today: Altcoin Golden Cross Signals Potential 90% Rally as $TOTAL3 Index Surpasses $1.03T

Altcoin markets are showing early signs of a potential rally as the $TOTAL3 index—a metric representing the aggregate market capitalization of altcoins excluding Bitcoin and Ethereum—has formed a rare golden cross pattern. This technical event, marked by the 50-day simple moving average crossing above the 200-day SMA, has historically signaled the start of bullish cycles for alternative cryptocurrencies [1]. Analysts tracking the $TOTAL3 index note that similar formations in late 2023 and 2024 were followed by sharp gains, with altcoin capitalization surging over 90% in subsequent months [1].

The July 2025 golden cross follows a prolonged consolidation phase and a breakout from a descending trendline that had been in place since late 2024. This pattern aligns with a recurring sequence observed in prior cycles: a local peak, followed by a downtrend, breakout, golden cross confirmation, and eventual expansion phase [1]. Current indicators, including rising trading volume and a $TOTAL3 market cap above $1.03 trillion, suggest capital is beginning to rotate from dominant assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum into smaller-cap altcoins. While BTC and ETH posted weekly gains of 0.20% and 4.64% respectively, the broader altcoin segment appears poised for a more aggressive upward trajectory [1].

Historical comparisons draw parallels to earlier market cycles, particularly in 2023 and 2024, when golden cross events in the $TOTAL3 index preceded widespread rallies. In those instances, altcoins rapidly expanded in market capitalization after breaking out of downtrends, a pattern now being repeated in 2025 [1]. CrypFlow, a market analyst firm, has highlighted this repetition as a key marker for altcoin cycles, often culminating in new all-time highs for multiple assets. The current technical alignment—characterized by a confirmed golden cross and positive volume trends—supports the likelihood of continued momentum if the pattern sustains [1].

The potential for a new expansion phase is further underscored by the broader market context. With Bitcoin and Ethereum showing modest gains, investors are increasingly directing capital toward altcoins, a shift reflected in the $TOTAL3 index’s breakout above critical resistance levels. This capital rotation mirrors previous movements seen in the TOTAL and TOTAL2 indices, which historically marked the beginning of significant altcoin cycles [1]. Analysts caution, however, that while the technical setup is favorable, market conditions remain dynamic, and confirmation of the rally will depend on maintaining bullish momentum in the coming weeks [1].

As the altcoin market navigates this phase, the focus remains on the $TOTAL3 index as a barometer of broader crypto sentiment. If the historical precedent holds, the current golden cross could herald a period of renewed growth, with altcoins potentially leading the next phase of market expansion. Investors are advised to monitor key technical levels and volume trends for further confirmation of the ongoing shift in capital allocation [1].

Sources:

[1] [Altcoins Signal Next Rally as $TOTAL3 Prints Rare Golden Cross Pattern] [https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/6886b1c23b9f6678f00e4e5b/]