Altcoin Season to Face Delays Unless New Crypto ETFs Launch, Bitfinex Analysts Warn

As Bitcoin tumbles on the charts this week, the speculation of the altcoin season has taken over the market. The same persists today, where many crypto investors have begun sharing various theories and predictions. However, the Bitfinex analysts have shut it down, claiming that AltSeason won’t begin without the launch of new crypto ETFs.

Bitfinex Analysts Predict Altcoin Season to Begin with New Crypto ETFs Launch

In a Monday market report, Bitfinex analysts argue that the altcoin season would not fully begin unless the SEC approves more crypto exchange-traded funds. More importantly, the high Bitcoin product inflows would also play a significant role in this.

“Rising tide lifts all boats’ environment” until later in the year when inflows into Bitcoin products regain momentum and new investment vehicles for altcoins are introduced.”

Notably, investors have been awaiting the approval of many crypto ETFs this year, but the SEC has been constantly putting them on hold. SEC has recently delayed their decision on XRP ETFs and other filings, in the hope of better understanding them and analyzing their impact.

While they stand consistent on the delays, Bitfinex analysts believe these ETFs would create steady institutional buying regardless of the market conditions. Without these catalysts, they don’t expect the bullish scenario for altcoins.

What Does the Bitcoin Dominance & Market Sentiment Suggest for Altcoin Season?

Since Bitcoin price has collapsed to the month’s low, investors have been awaiting the dominance. The 6% drop in the Bitcoin dominance in a month, currently at 57.8% also supports investors’ expectation of an AltSeason.

Moreover, the Altcoin Season Index has surged to 44, along with high mentions of the topic on social media. However, despite that, the momentum is still not favorable for the altcoins yet.

Along with BTC, the rest of the crypto market is struggling. Additionally, experts note that the investors’ appetite/ demand is much shorter than required for the AltSeason.

Overall, most experts would agree with Bitfinex analysts’ 1-year prediction that the rally would begin after this period once the crypto ETFs get approval and Bitcoin gains renewed inflows. ETF expert Eric Balchunas also suggests the potential approval in late 2025 and early 2026, increasing the credibility of the prediction.

However, a few experts, such as David Duong, Michaël van de Poppe, and others, also anticipate an early AltSeason.