As Bitcoin Falters, ORCA Surges 58%—Will Its $1.5 Rally Continue?

▲ Orca (ORCA) /Source: X

While the broader cryptocurrency market, led by Bitcoin (BTC), has fallen into a deep slump, Orca (ORCA) has staged a remarkable solo rally of over 58%, emerging at the center of the latest altcoin rotation. Despite the absence of any clear individual catalyst, speculative buying pressure in the spot market has driven this unusual surge, with the defense of the short-term psychological support level at $1 now seen as the key factor for further gains.

According to CoinMarketCap on February 17 (local time), Orca soared 58.79% over the past 24 hours to reach $1.27. This sharply contrasts with market leader Bitcoin, which fell 2.72% during the same period, while the total cryptocurrency market capitalization shrank by 1.94%. Trading volume for Orca skyrocketed by an astonishing 4,364%, underscoring the intensity of buying momentum.

The primary driver behind Orca’s record-breaking surge appears to be a significant capital rotation into altcoins. Amid extreme fear reflected in the broader market’s Fear and Greed Index, investors have rapidly shifted toward more volatile altcoins in search of higher returns. CoinMarketCap’s Altcoin Season Index rose 3.33% within 24 hours to 31, and has climbed 29% over the past 30 days, strongly supporting the narrative of capital rotation.

However, no clear fundamental factors—such as major news, partnerships, or on-chain catalysts—have been identified to justify the spike. Rather than a single defining event, strong spot market momentum and speculative capital inflows alone generated explosive trading volume totaling $249 million. This suggests a high-risk environment where a cooling of the rotation narrative could quickly lead to a sharp reversal.

Orca’s future price trajectory depends heavily on whether the altcoin rally can be sustained. If the psychological support level of $1 holds firmly, a further rally toward $1.50 could be anticipated. Yet, having already surged 70% over the past seven days, the asset has entered severely overbought territory, posing a significant burden. In particular, if Bitcoin dominance—currently at 58.19%—rebounds and begins absorbing liquidity, profit-taking pressure could intensify, potentially breaking the $1 level and triggering a sharp correction. Caution is strongly advised.

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