When Will Altcoin Season Start in 2026?

The article argues that a new altcoin season may be forming, but only if macro and crypto market conditions improve. It highlights the U.S. ISM manufacturing index as the key trigger, noting that readings above 58 historically coincided with strong altcoin outperformance versus Bitcoin. Current conditions still show Bitcoin dominance elevated relative to prior cycles, but recent resilience in BTC despite geopolitical tensions, high oil prices, corporate selling, and a reported $130 million cold-wallet hack suggests selling pressure may be fading. The piece also cites stronger South Korean export data and Taiwan export prices as early signs of improving global manufacturing demand. Analysts say the most likely beneficiaries would be fundamentally stronger altcoins such as Ethereum and Solana, while the broader altcoin market is seen holding near major support around $160-$165 billion, with upside potential toward $320-$340 billion if support holds.