When Was the Last Crypto Bull Run?
The question “when was the last crypto bull run” is on the minds of investors, traders, and enthusiasts as the digital asset market once again captures global attention. To answer this, we must look at the most recent and ongoing surge in cryptocurrency valuations, which began in early 2024 and, according to multiple expert analyses, is still unfolding as of 2025.
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Understanding the Bull Run Phenomenon
A crypto bull run refers to a sustained period where the prices of cryptocurrencies, led by Bitcoin, experience significant and often parabolic growth. Historically, these cycles are triggered by key events—most notably, the Bitcoin halving, which occurs approximately every four years and reduces the rate at which new bitcoins are created. This event is widely seen as a catalyst for bullish momentum, as it tightens supply and often coincides with a surge in demand.
The Genesis of the Latest Bull Run: Early 2024
The last crypto bull run officially began in early 2024, closely following the much-anticipated Bitcoin halving in April 2024. This event was not only a technical milestone but also a psychological one, reigniting optimism and drawing in both retail and institutional investors. Within weeks, Bitcoin shattered previous all-time highs, crossing the $100,000 threshold for the first time in history. This meteoric rise was mirrored across the altcoin market, with leading assets like Ethereum, Solana, and XRP posting double- and triple-digit percentage gains.
Key Drivers Behind the 2024-2025 Bull Run
Several factors have converged to make the current bull run unique and potentially the most significant in crypto history:
- Institutional Adoption: Unlike previous cycles, the 2024 bull run has been marked by a dramatic influx of institutional capital. Large corporations, hedge funds, and even national governments have entered the market, driving up both demand and confidence.
- Regulatory Clarity: The election of a pro-crypto administration in the United States, coupled with moves to replace SEC leadership and establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve, has created a more favorable regulatory environment. This has removed much of the uncertainty that previously plagued the industry.
- Technological Innovation: The rapid growth of decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and blockchain scalability solutions has attracted a new generation of users and developers, fueling further adoption.
- Global Macroeconomic Trends: With inflation concerns and monetary policy shifts in traditional markets, cryptocurrencies have increasingly been viewed as a hedge and a store of value, further propelling demand.
How Long Will This Bull Run Last?
Historical patterns suggest that crypto bull runs tend to last between one and two years, often peaking about 12-18 months after a Bitcoin halving. Analysts now predict that the current bull run, which began in early 2024, could extend well into 2025 and possibly even 2026, depending on macroeconomic conditions and continued institutional interest. Some experts, like Raoul Pal, believe the cycle could mirror the legendary 2017 run, with intermittent corrections but an overall upward trajectory stretching into 2026.
Comparing Past Bull Runs
| Bull Run Year | Start | Peak | Duration | Key Catalyst |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Q4 | Dec | ~3-4 mo | Bitcoin halving, media |
| 2017 | Q2 | Dec | ~6 mo | ICO boom, halving |
| 2021 | Q3 20 | Nov | ~16 mo | Institutional entry |
| 2024-2025 | Q1 24 | TBD | Ongoing | Halving, regulation |
The Last Crypto Bull Run Is Now
To directly answer the question “when was the last crypto bull run”: The most recent crypto bull run began in early 2024, triggered by the April Bitcoin halving and fueled by unprecedented institutional adoption, regulatory clarity, and technological innovation. As of mid-2025, this bull run is still ongoing, with experts forecasting its continuation into late 2025 or even 2026, depending on market dynamics and global economic factors. For investors and observers, this is a historic moment—one that could redefine the future of finance and digital assets.