The Vibe: The repeating pattern of boom and bust in crypto — prices swing from euphoric highs to fearful lows in big, predictable waves.
The Details: A market cycle is the full loop crypto goes through over months or years:
- Accumulation → Smart money buys quietly at lows (bear market bottom).
- Markup (Bull Market) → Prices rise steadily, then explode with FOMO and retail buying.
- Distribution → Smart money sells at highs (topping phase).
- Markdown (Bear Market) → Prices crash, fear dominates, weak hands sell.
Cycles are driven by halving events (Bitcoin), macro factors (FED rates), adoption waves, and psychology. Bitcoin has ~4-year cycles tied to halvings; altcoins often lag and pump harder in “altseason.” In 2026, we’re in the post-2024 halving cycle — still early-mid bull phase for many.
Pro Tip: Never chase tops or panic at bottoms — recognize the cycle phase. Buy in accumulation/markup, take profits in distribution. Use DCA and HODL through markdown. History shows cycles repeat — patience wins.