Analysts debate whether Bitcoin is in a ‘sell in May’ bear market setup

Some analysts argue that a comparatively broadened, institutionalized buyer base for crypto today may prevent a repeat of the drawdowns seen in May 2018 and May 2022.

Crypto analysts are divided over whether markets will see a major Bitcoin sell-off in May, a pattern that has emerged in the last two bear markets during US mid-term election years. 

In May 2018, Bitcoin crashed from nearly $10,000 to about $7,000 by the end of the month. It happened again in May 2022, when Bitcoin fell nearly 30% from about $40,000 to $28,500 before falling further in June to $20,000. 

With 2026 also a bear market year coinciding with a US mid-term election, there are concerns it could happen again. 

Read more