Crypto market sentiment has dropped sharply into the “Fear” category this morning, as traders step back from riskier altcoins and concentrate on larger-cap assets like Bitcoin and Ether, according to a new report by sentiment analytics firm Santiment. The shift to Fear marks a significant change from the neutral readings observed over the previous two days.
Santiment’s data indicate that investor attention has narrowed to major tokens, with discussion volumes for Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH) and XRP eclipsing those of smaller altcoins. A heavy focus on large-caps often reflects a more cautious market stance as traders brace for potential downside or consolidation rather than chasing speculative gains on lesser-known projects. “It’s clear traders are less interested in obscure altcoins and are instead debating which major asset will break out next,” Santiment said in its Saturday briefing.
The Crypto Fear & Greed Index, which aggregates market sentiment readings into a single metric, posted a score of 44—its first reading in the Fear zone since late August. Meanwhile, the CoinMarketCap Altcoin Season Index remains at 56 out of 100, still technically in “Altcoin Season” territory but showing signs of a potential retreat as risk-off sentiment builds.
Notable market participants have weighed in on these trends. Trader Daan Crypto Trades highlighted that key technical support levels for Bitcoin remain under threat, while Rekt Fencer warned of an impending “final shakeout” for altcoins before any significant recovery sets in. Other analysts argue that a renewed leg higher may materialize only once clarity emerges around upcoming ETF approvals and macro catalysts, underscoring the current uncertainty driving sentiment toward fear.
Comments (0)