Library · Crypto, word by word · Markets and money
What is a bull market?
A bull market is a market in which prices are generally rising over a period of months or years. The term describes a past or current trend; it does not say how long the trend lasts.
What it means for you
Rising prices draw new buyers and new scams: fraudsters point to recent gains to sell schemes promising more of the same. A label like "bull run" describes what already happened and tells you nothing about next week's price.
How it works
The CFTC defines a bull market only by its trend: prices generally rising over months or years. What drives such runs in crypto is often self-reinforcing. FSOC observes that crypto prices appear driven mainly by speculation, and that leverage can fuel buying and lift prices, while higher prices in turn invite more borrowing. The same report notes that some promoters forecast long, continuous growth while having financial incentives to do so. Because the label is applied to a trend already under way, it describes the past and does not tell anyone when the trend ends.
Sources: CFTC: Glossary, FSOC: Report on Digital Asset Financial Stability Risks and Regulation 2022 · checked 4 October 2026
Often confused with
Related words
Educational content, not financial advice. Written by hand and checked against the source named above. Something wrong? Tell us and we reply within two business days.