Bulrun is a price jump phenomenon: when it starts and how to recognize it

Bull run is one of the most discussed terms in the cryptocurrency market, especially when prices move sharply upward. But behind this simple word lies a complex market dynamic that every trader and investor aiming to participate successfully in crypto market movements needs to understand.

Bull run is not just growth: key differences from traditional trends

To understand whether a bull run is a short-term or long-term phenomenon, it’s important to clearly distinguish two concepts that are often confused in the market.

Bull market refers to a prolonged period of steady asset price increases, stretching over months or years. Such a market is formed due to stable demand, investor confidence, and consistent capital expansion. It’s a long-term trend where most assets in the sector show upward movement.

A bull run is a completely different phenomenon — an explosive, intense period of price growth lasting from several days to several weeks. These surges are often triggered by specific events, announcements, or sudden capital inflows. If a bull market is a stable elevator, then a bull run is a high-speed elevator with acceleration.

In the cryptocurrency space, these phenomena are especially pronounced due to extreme market volatility. One positive news event or technological update can trigger a bull run, which then develops into a longer-term upward trend.

Key signals of an approaching price surge

Experienced market participants have learned to recognize signs that often precede explosive growth. Here are the most reliable indicators:

Sharp increase in trading volume during upward movement. When demand exceeds supply, volumes spike, attracting new participants. This creates a self-sustaining cycle: higher price — more attention — more buyers — even higher price.

Positive media coverage and analyst optimism. Media start actively writing about cryptocurrencies, and search queries on the topic grow exponentially. This amplifies FOMO (fear of missing out) among retail investors, further pushing prices upward.

Entry of large financial players. When reports show that major hedge funds, asset management firms, and even pension funds are positioning themselves in crypto assets, it’s a strong signal. Such actions often precede a sustained growth period.

Favorable regulatory steps and technological breakthroughs. Approval of crypto ETFs, legislative changes, or significant protocol updates create a sense of legitimacy and security, attracting conservative capital.

Increased trading activity in altcoins. When the main asset (Bitcoin) has already risen, speculative interest shifts to alternative assets. This phenomenon, known as altseason, often indicates that a bull run is in full swing and covering an increasing part of the market.

Why the cryptocurrency market is currently volatile

At present, the market shows several signs that could be interpreted as prerequisites for a new growth wave.

Current market parameters (updated March 24, 2026):

• Bitcoin Price: $70,480
• 24-hour change: -0.52%
• 24-hour trading volume: $755.28M

Since September 2024, Bitcoin has been showing an upward trend on weekly and monthly charts. Many technical analysts note that the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is at levels that preceded previous periods of significant growth.

Large financial institutions continue to show interest in cryptocurrencies. Institutional investors view crypto as a strategic asset for portfolios, providing structural support for prices.

Expected regulatory changes and approval of new crypto instruments create an optimistic atmosphere. Market analysts associate this with the likelihood of mass adoption of blockchain technology and broader use of digital assets in traditional finance.

The increased investor interest in various altcoins in recent weeks further supports the hypothesis of an upcoming altseason. When the main currency shows growth, speculative capital migrates into riskier assets.

Dangers of self-deception: how beginners mistake trends

The main trap for novice traders is confusing a short-term price rebound with the start of a real bull run. A short-term spike in value often ends with a sharp correction, where those who bought at the peak of hype lose significant funds.

False signals occur during local price jumps caused by speculation, coordinated operations, or normal trading noise. Before making investment decisions, it’s essential to verify fundamental indicators: is interest in the technology genuinely growing, is the regulatory environment stabilizing, and are long-term investors entering the market?

Another danger lies in overestimating the significance of individual technical indicators. While RSI and other tools are useful, they do not guarantee correct predictions of price movements. Risk remains an inherent part of any trading strategy.

Goals for the current cycle

Technical analysts identify the following levels as potential targets during an upward movement:

• Intermediate target: $83,000
• More ambitious target: $90,000

These levels are based on technical analysis and represent resistances that could be overcome if a bull run develops. However, reaching these targets is not guaranteed and depends on many variables in the market.