From Sideways Trading to a Bullish Run: When run tho?

LOL! peeped that AI generated image? ahah so good!

I haven't been active in long-form discussions for a couple of weeks. One main reason is the market's inactivity due to uncertainties. Global factors, such as tariff talks and other external influences, have contributed to market volatility. Over the past weeks, the market hasn't shown much movement, so I didn't feel there was much to discuss. However, as of this weekend, there's been a slight uptick, which is intriguing. Despite this, the market is still trading sideways, in my opinion.

Currently, the crypto market cap is nearing $3 trillion, which I consider a safe baseline. This level was last seen during the market high in 2021. However, I remain cautious about the near future. While I am optimistic about a potential bull run later this year, I am uncertain about the trajectory over the next three to six months. Historically, the year following a Bitcoin halving often sees market acceleration, particularly around September. Historically also there was a run up in March however this didn't happen at all this year, odd.

New factors, such as crypto ETFs (especially Bitcoin ETFs), are influencing the market. Additionally, demand for projects in AI and real-world assets is growing. Ethereum could see a significant run-up as institutions utilize its blockchain for real-world assets. While I am monitoring some altcoins, I am primarily focused on Bitcoin and Ethereum. Among altcoins, Solana, HBAR, XRP, and ADA show potential due to their solid foundations and long-standing positions in the top 10. Another eye on SUI and ONDO.

As of this weekend, Bitcoin has reached $95,000, with a 12% rise over the week. Ethereum has also risen by 12%, while Solana is up 12%, and ADA has increased by 14%. Interestingly, SUI has surged by 68% this week. The Fear and Greed Index is now at 53, indicating a neutral sentiment, a shift from the fear zone of recent weeks.

According to the Altcoin Season Index, we are still in Bitcoin season, with a score of 15 out of 100. However, some altcoins are performing well, which could signal their potential rise during the next bull run. The current crypto market cap is $2.97 trillion, close to the $3 trillion mark. To signal a strong upward trend, I would like to see the market cap reach at least $3.7 trillion, a level last seen on December 16th of last year.

Since April 17th, there has been an increase in crypto ETF inflows. For example, on April 22nd, Bitcoin saw an inflow of $912 million, the highest in recent times.

I'm keen to observe how the crypto market progresses over the next week. If positive trends continue, I believe we could witness an increase in both the overall market cap and investor interest. That being said, I anticipate a modest rise leading up to the end of the financial year, potentially followed by a period of consolidation. Toward the end of the year, we might see more significant movement. Of course, all of this is speculative. However, historically, the market has shown tendencies to gain traction under similar conditions, which gives me reason to remain cautiously optimistic.

I really appreciate you taking the time to read this. Please do share this if you find it interesting. As a retail investor/trader myself, this is exciting and interesting times and I am rolling with the punches. Hope you continue to follow along on this journey with me.

Watch this space.