Definition ∞ Altcoin market cap represents the total value of all cryptocurrencies, excluding Bitcoin. This metric is calculated by multiplying the current price of each altcoin by its circulating supply and then summing these individual values. It serves as a key indicator of the collective health and investor interest in the broader digital asset market beyond Bitcoin. Fluctuations in this aggregate value reflect shifts in capital allocation across diverse blockchain projects.
Context ∞ Altcoin market cap figures are routinely reported in crypto news to gauge investor sentiment toward the wider digital asset ecosystem. A rising altcoin market cap often signals increased risk appetite and diversification into smaller, more speculative assets. Conversely, a decline may suggest a movement of capital to Bitcoin or stablecoins. Observers watch this metric for signs of market rotations and the performance of alternative cryptocurrencies relative to Bitcoin dominance.
Blockchain Knowledge
Cryptocurrency Foundation
Cryptospace Newsfeed
