Market Veteran Forecasts Shift in Crypto Investment Strategy

In a recent exclusive interview with Cointelegraph, Jeff Ko, an analyst from cryptocurrency exchange CoinEx, delivered a sobering prediction for altcoin enthusiasts. According to Ko, the market should not expect a broad-based "altseason" in 2026, a period typically characterized by massive rallies across smaller-cap cryptocurrencies.

Ko's analysis centers on the flow of capital within the digital asset ecosystem. He argues that as the market matures and investor behavior evolves, liquidity is becoming increasingly selective. Instead of spreading thinly across thousands of projects, investment is expected to consolidate around established, high-quality assets.

The Rise of the 'Blue-Chip Survivors'

The core of Ko's thesis is the emergence of what he terms "blue-chip survivors." These are the cryptocurrencies that have demonstrated resilience through multiple market cycles, maintained strong development fundamentals, and secured significant network adoption.

"We are moving from a phase of speculative frenzy to one of value recognition," Ko explained. "The liquidity that in previous cycles flooded into obscure altcoins will, in the coming years, be much more disciplined. It will seek safety, utility, and proven track records."

This trend suggests a potential bifurcation in the crypto market, where a handful of top-tier projects capture the majority of new institutional and sophisticated retail investment, while many smaller projects struggle for attention and funding.

  • Capital Concentration: Liquidity expected to funnel into Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a select few other large-cap assets with clear use cases.
  • Quality Over Quantity: Investors are predicted to prioritize fundamental strength and real-world adoption over speculative narratives.
  • Market Maturation: The forecast signals a move towards a more traditional financial market structure, with clear leaders and a long tail of niche players.

For traders and long-term holders, this analysis recommends a strategic review of portfolios, emphasizing durability and core infrastructure projects over high-risk, high-reward altcoin bets in the lead-up to 2026.