Crypto Fear & Greed Index Today
Real-time market sentiment score β 0 (Extreme Fear) to 100 (Extreme Greed)
π΄ Real-Time Market Sentiment
Index Components Breakdown
π Fear & Greed History Chart
π Daily History β Last 14 Days
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What Is the Crypto Fear & Greed Index? Complete 2026 Guide
The Crypto Fear & Greed Index is the most widely used sentiment indicator in cryptocurrency markets. Published daily by Alternative.me, it distils the complex psychology of millions of crypto investors into a single number between 0 and 100. A score near zero signals Extreme Fear β panic, capitulation, and widespread pessimism. A score near 100 signals Extreme Greed β euphoria, FOMO-driven buying, and bubble-like conditions.
Why Does the Fear & Greed Index Matter for Investors?
Warren Buffett's famous principle β "Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful" β is the philosophical backbone of this index. When the entire market is gripped by fear, assets are often sold below fair value, creating buying opportunities for long-term investors. Conversely, extreme greed signals overvaluation and elevated crash risk. Historically, the deepest Bitcoin bear market bottoms (2019, 2022) coincided with index readings below 10, while the euphoric 2021 peak aligned with readings above 90.
How Is the Index Calculated? 6 Components Explained
- Volatility (25%): Current Bitcoin volatility vs its 30-day and 90-day averages. Unusually high volatility signals fearful markets.
- Market Momentum / Volume (25%): Current trading volume vs 30/90-day averages. High buying volume in a positive market = greed.
- Social Media Sentiment (15%): Twitter and Reddit post count and engagement for crypto hashtags. Unusually high social activity = greed.
- Bitcoin Dominance (10%): When Bitcoin's share of total crypto market cap rises, it often indicates fear (investors flee altcoins into Bitcoin's safety).
- Google Trends (10%): Search volume for "bitcoin" and related terms. Surge in "bitcoin price manipulation" searches = fear; "how to buy bitcoin" = greed.
- Surveys (15%): Weekly CryptoCompare poll results from thousands of participants, though currently paused.
How to Use the Fear & Greed Index as a Trading Tool
The index is best used as a contrarian signal, not a timing tool. When it drops below 20 (Extreme Fear), historical data suggests the risk/reward for long positions improves significantly. When it exceeds 80 (Extreme Greed), experienced traders often reduce exposure or take profits. Combine this index with Bitcoin's 200-day moving average, on-chain metrics (like MVRV ratio), and macro indicators for a more complete picture.
Disclaimer: The Fear & Greed Index is a sentiment tool, not financial advice. Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile. Always conduct your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before investing.
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