Bull run in crypto: how to recognize an uptrend and profit from it

The beginning of 2026 has given the crypto market a new boost — Bitcoin (BTC) is trading at $96.18K, and community energy is reaching its peak. But what is behind the phrase “bull market” and why do experienced traders carefully monitor every signal? Let’s understand the mechanics of a bull run, its causes, and ways to profit from it.

What happens during a bull market?

A bull market in crypto is a period when asset prices rise amid growing optimism and buyer activity. Demand exceeds supply, the trend is upward, and market psychology shifts toward confidence. Such periods are usually accompanied by economic recovery and positive industry news.

History shows that bull runs occur regularly. Take Bitcoin in 2013 — the price jumped from $13 in January to $1100 in December, sparking media interest. Ethereum in 2017 did a similar trick: from $10 to $1400 in just a year. And during the 2020-2021 bull run, Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $69,000, attracting institutional investors.

Digital assets: the basics for understanding

Before jumping into trading, you need to grasp the fundamentals. Cryptocurrencies are decentralized digital assets operating on blockchain technology without intermediaries like banks. They are transferred peer-to-peer between network participants, and each transaction is immutably recorded.

Brief overview of key cryptocurrencies

Bitcoin (BTC) — the pioneer of all crypto. Serves as a store of value and a means of payment in a decentralized network. Current price: $96.18K with a weekly increase of 6.87%.

Ethereum (ETH) — platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApp). Native token Ether (ETH) is valued at $3.34K.

Ripple (XRP) — focused on international payments. XRP price is $2.10, providing a relatively stable level compared to volatile neighbors.

Litecoin (LTC) — called the “silver” to Bitcoin’s “gold.” Traded at $74.77, serving as a faster and cheaper alternative.

Solana (SOL) — Layer 1 blockchain emphasizing scalability and performance. Price $143.64 reflects interest in high-performance networks.

Why do bull runs happen?

Rising trends in crypto don’t come out of nowhere. They are fueled by specific factors:

Supply and demand — classic mechanics. When demand surges and the number of coins is limited, prices go up. Bitcoin’s halving in 2024, for example, reduced new BTC issuance, supporting scarcity.

Media attention — announcements of Bitcoin ETFs, legalization in new countries, celebrity endorsements — all create hype and attract new buyers.

Government policy — positive regulatory steps (approval of spot-ETFs, favorable laws) stimulate investments, especially institutional.

Technological progress — launching new blockchain platforms, improving algorithms, increasing scalability — all can fuel bullish sentiment.

Recent bull run 2023-2024: what did it look like

After the FTX crash, many predicted the death of the crypto market. However, 2023 unfolded differently. Bitcoin grew by an impressive 155.57%, closing the year at $42,283. Growth drivers included:

• Approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, opening crypto to traditional investors
• Rumors of Fed rate cuts amid successful inflation control
• Restoring trust after the series of crashes in 2022

In 2024, the trend continued. Despite concerns about capital outflows from Grayscale Trust ETF, Bitcoin held firm, and then began to reach new heights. The halving that year became a catalyst for further growth.

Today, at the start of 2026, BTC demonstrates strength at $96.18K, nearly approaching its historical maximum of $126.08K.

How to recognize a bull market?

Key indicators

Watch for three key metrics: price trend, trading volume, and market capitalization. If all three are rising simultaneously — that’s a sign of a forming bull run.

Technical analysis

Study chart patterns, support and resistance levels, moving averages. Breakouts above resistance on high volume often signal an upward trend. Pay attention to overbought signals via indicators like RSI — it doesn’t necessarily mean a reversal, especially in a strong bull run.

Keep an eye on news and events

Regulatory decisions, technological updates, macroeconomic environment — all influence the market. Positive news in media often coincides with accelerated growth.

Strategies for trading during a bull run

Portfolio diversification

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Distribute funds across different cryptocurrencies with varying risk profiles. Bitcoin as a conservative choice, Solana as medium risk, newer tokens as aggressive segments.

Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) strategy

Instead of a lump sum purchase, spread out your buys evenly: a fixed amount weekly or monthly. This smooths volatility and removes emotion from decisions.

( Long-term horizon

Cryptocurrencies are volatile in the short term but have historically shown significant growth over years. If you can hold your position for 1-2 years, a bull run can yield substantial profits.

) Risk management — the main tool

Set stop-loss orders 10-15% below entry price. Take profits at target levels — don’t be greedy, thinking the price will go even higher. A position from which you’ve gained 50% profit is already a good position.

Risks that cannot be ignored

Volatility

Bitcoin can drop 20% in a day. Ethereum is even more volatile. Be prepared for psychological pressure.

Fraud and schemes

Crypto space attracts not only honest traders. Scam projects, pyramids, fake official channels — all are real threats. Conduct your own research ###DYOR### before each investment.

( Lack of government protection

Unlike stocks and bonds, cryptocurrencies are not protected by state guarantees. If you lose coins, recovering them will be extremely difficult.

) Wallet vulnerabilities

Mobile wallets, browser extensions, even hardware wallets — all are theoretically vulnerable to advanced hackers. Use secure solutions, enable two-factor authentication, store private keys securely.

Final thoughts on bull runs in crypto

A bull run in crypto is a periodic phenomenon that creates opportunities for capital accumulation, but not without risks. The current Bitcoin level at $96.18K shows that the market is alive and evolving. But remember: history shows that every bull run is followed by a bear market.

Beginner traders should approach the crypto market methodically: study projects, diversify, use DCA, manage risks. Do not invest sums you are not willing to lose entirely.

The crypto industry is young but rapidly maturing. Regulation is improving, technology is advancing, institutional interest is growing. This means that waves of bull runs will recur. The question is, will you be ready for them?

Popular questions about bull runs

How long does a typical bull run last?
There’s no exact schedule. They can last months or years. Market cycles are unpredictable, so focus on a long-term plan rather than timelines.

Is it always risky?
Bull runs carry risk, yes. But if you trade methodically, diversify, and manage positions, you can significantly reduce that risk.

When to buy, when to sell?
Buy during a bull run — prices are rising, confidence is high. Sell or move to stablecoins during a bear market. But nobody can perfectly time entry and exit points.

Is it worth entering when the market is already in a bull run?
Yes, if you have a long-term horizon and use DCA. Panic about “being late” often prevents traders from realizing real profits.