Crypto Spot Trading Volumes Collapse 66%: Is This the Calm Before a Bullish Storm?

Source: CoinTribune Original Title: Crypto: Spot volumes collapse by 60%… could this be the calm before the bullish storm? Original Link: https://www.cointribune.com/en/crypto-spot-volumes-collapse-by-60-could-this-be-the-calm-before-the-bullish-storm/

Market Overview

The crypto market is experiencing a period of apparent calm marked by a spectacular 66% drop in spot trading volumes. This decrease, often observed before major bullish phases, has attracted investors’ attention. Between historical data, expert analyses, and upcoming regulatory decisions, the sector stands at a decisive turning point.

The Sharp Decline in Spot Trading Volumes

According to recent data, cryptocurrency spot trading volumes have dropped 66% since January 2025. After exceeding 500 billion dollars at the beginning of the year, volumes now stand around 250 billion, with sessions dropping as low as 200 billion. This sharp decline occurs amid a slowdown in capital inflows via crypto ETFs, especially those linked to Bitcoin, and persistent macroeconomic uncertainties.

Historically, such periods of low activity, called “lulls”, have often preceded major rebounds in the crypto ecosystem. In 2019 and 2020, similar volume drops were followed by increases of 200% to 500%. Today, 80% of altcoins have recorded corrections over the last seven days, while Bitcoin has corrected by 30% since October 2025. These figures raise a crucial question: is this drop a prelude to a new bullish phase?

Silent Accumulation: A Buying Signal?

For major market participants, prolonged calm periods in crypto markets are not necessarily alarming. They often reflect a phase of silent accumulation, where institutional players temporarily withdraw while awaiting more favorable macroeconomic catalysts. The “lulls” could well precede a significant recovery, provided market conditions improve.

Several optimistic signals are emerging. Analysts believe that Bitcoin could target $180,000 in 2026 after recent central bank rate cuts. However, market sentiment remains cautious, with the Crypto Fear & Greed Index in “extreme fear” territory (23/100), reflecting widespread investor distrust.

Regulatory Decisions: A Turning Point Ahead

A regulatory roundtable is scheduled to address financial surveillance and privacy protection in the cryptocurrency sector. Discussions will focus on crypto ETF regulation, transaction transparency, and stablecoin oversight—crucial subjects for institutional investors.

This event could have major repercussions on the future of Bitcoin and other digital assets. Two scenarios are emerging:

Optimistic Scenario: A clear regulatory framework could restore investor confidence and favor a rebound in trading volumes.

Pessimistic Scenario: Overly strict restrictions could deepen the current decline and delay the next bullish phase.

Decisions made at this meeting will be instrumental for the crypto market’s development in the coming months.

Conclusion

The combination of a historic drop in spot volumes, optimistic cyclical analysis, and impending regulatory decisions places the crypto market at a pivotal crossroads. The coming days could well determine whether this calm phase precedes a bullish storm or an extension of market uncertainty. For investors, the key question remains: should we anticipate a recovery or prepare for continued volatility?