Crypto Market Death Cross Inches Closer, Will The Bear Market Return?

Tony "The Bull" Severino

5 years ago

3 mins read

crypto death cross moving average bitcoin

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The dreaded death cross – the name for when a short-term moving average crosses below a long-term moving average. It’s appearance on the charts of Bitcoin and other financial assets – crypto or traditional – can hint at an extended downtrend ahead.

To the dismay of crypto investors, the total cryptocurrency market cap is inching closer and closer to completing a death cross. If it completes, it could signal that the market will return to its brutal crypto winter and that the bear market may not actually be over at all.

Groundhog Day: Death Cross Could Mean Extended Crypto Winter

Every year on February 2, the United States celebrates Groundhog Day. If the groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, sees his shadow, then the folklore suggests that the region is in for an extended winter.

A similar superstition suggesting an extended crypto winter could soon play out across the crypto market, called the death cross. The ominous-sounding name is given to when a short-term moving average – the 50-day MA for example – crossed under a long-term moving average such as the 200-day MA.

why'd no one tell me we have a death cross coming up on the total crypto mcap? smh

Q3 review article coming 2mrw for @bravenewcoin pic.twitter.com/r1GoLGgHQl

— #333kByJuly2025 (@CarpeNoctom) October 3, 2019

According to a chart shared by crypto analyst Josh Olszewicz, the total cryptocurrency market cap – an aggregate of Bitcoin and all other cryptocurrencies in the industry – is coming closer and closer to completing a death cross of the 50-day moving average and 200-day moving average. If it completes, the bear market may not actually be over.

History Often Repeats What Happened After Previous Death Crosses?

The last time that the total crypto market cap death crossed, was in May 2018, and following that cross, the bear market really took hold of Bitcoin and the rest of the altcoins across the space. The powerful downtrend that followed demonstrates just how significant a death cross can be.

The total market cap completed a golden cross just months ago – essentially the exact opposite of a death cross – but it failed to make a strong impact on crypto prices sans Bitcoin.

Interestingly, during the 2014-2015 bear market, Bitcoin itself completed a golden cross after it bottomed, only to death cross once again, then in the weeks ahead again completed a second golden cross that took hold and stayed crossed all the way to the Bitcoin’s all-time high of $20,000.

While things aren’t looking good for the crypto market currently, and an extended crypto winter may be ahead, if the total market cap repeats what Bitcoin did at its bottom, then after a short correction will come new highs, again and again until a new peak is reached an all-time high is set.

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Tony "The Bull" Severino

Tony "The Bull" Severino, CMT, is a distinguished figure in the cryptocurrency analysis sector, renowned for his in-depth technical expertise and innovative approach to market trends. As the Head of Research at NewsBTC, Tony leads a team dedicated to providing cutting-edge insights and forecasts, helping both novice and experienced traders navigate the complexities of the crypto market.
A seasoned Chartered Market Technician, Tony's prowess in identifying and capitalizing on market patterns is unmatched. His academic and professional journey in market analysis has firmly established him as a leading authority in technical trading strategies. Tony’s approach is heavily influenced by the principles of Elliott Wave Theory, a method known for its rigorous assessment of investor psychology and price movements.

Beyond his role at NewsBTC, Tony is the visionary founder of CoinChartist.io, an educational platform aimed at demystifying the nuances of cryptocurrency trading. CoinChartist.io serves as a valuable resource for traders seeking to enhance their technical analysis skills. The platform offers a range of learning tools and resources designed to empower traders with the knowledge to make informed trading decisions.

In addition to his educational initiatives, Tony is a prolific author and a dominant voice in the crypto community. He writes the CoinChartist VIP newsletter, a weekly dispatch that has become a staple among crypto enthusiasts, revered for its insightful analysis and actionable trading advice. This newsletter has consistently ranked as a best-seller on SubStack, boasting thousands of subscribers who rely on Tony’s expertise to guide their trading strategies.

Tony is also celebrated for his literary contributions to the field. He is the author of the highest-rated Crypto Trading Journal on Amazon.com, a testament to his ability to communicate complex trading concepts in an accessible manner. This journal is widely regarded as an essential tool for traders aiming to track their progress and refine their strategies.

Before his ascent in the financial analysis world, Tony honed his skills in journalism. His background in this field has endowed him with a unique ability to present intricate market dynamics in a clear and compelling manner, making his insights highly sought after by a broad audience that ranges from casual readers to professional traders.
His professional affiliations underscore his commitment to excellence and continuous learning. As a partner of Elliott Wave International and TradingView, Tony collaborates with other leading experts to enhance his knowledge and skills. His active membership in the CMT Association further aligns him with the highest standards of industry practices and ethics.

Tony’s nickname, "The Bull," aptly reflects his aggressive and optimistic outlook on the cryptocurrency markets. His forecasts often anticipate significant upturns, earning him a reputation for bullish predictions that have frequently led to lucrative outcomes for those who follow his advice.

In summary, Tony "The Bull" Severino, CMT, is more than just a technical analyst; he is a mentor, educator, and innovator whose influence in the cryptocurrency space continues to grow. His dedication to advancing the understanding of market forces and his commitment to providing high-quality, reliable analysis make him a pivotal figure in the world of cryptocurrency trading.