[DigitalToday reporter Hong Jin-joo (홍진주)] As the cryptocurrency market goes through a prolonged correction, a different trend from price charts is being detected. Google Trends data show a clear change in crypto-related search behavior during a recent bearish phase. BeInCrypto, a blockchain outlet, reported the details on Feb. 25 local time.

The most striking feature is a sharp rise in negative keywords. Searches for extreme phrases such as “Bitcoin to zero” and “Bitcoin is dead” have jumped to record levels. Some analysts point out that these search volumes are higher than during previous bear markets or the shock from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experienced investors interpret the phenomenon differently. That is because when markets reach extreme pessimism, it has often indicated the cycle is closer to a bottom. Some analysis also says that buying a set amount each time the phrase “Bitcoin is dead” appeared in the media could have produced high returns over the long term.

Another movement in search terms is also drawing attention. Over the same period, searches for the question “What is Bitcoin” hit an all-time high. That is different from a simple spread of fear. While searches questioning bitcoin’s survival rose, basic beginner questions about its concept also surged. The former is likely to reflect anxiety among investors with market experience, but the latter points to a different group.

According to BeInCrypto, those seeking basic knowledge about bitcoin for the first time are likely to be newcomers. The inflow of new interest even as prices fall is notable. Binance has also said, “Even now, millions of people are encountering Bitcoin for the first time somewhere.”

During market slumps, public interest usually fades, but in this cycle searches for the most basic concepts are instead increasing. That suggests bitcoin is still maintaining strong awareness and expanding to new demographic groups that were not familiar with digital assets.

An increase in search volume does not directly lead to an inflow of funds. Still, unprecedented interest in “What is Bitcoin” could be an early sign of the possible emergence of new retail investors. Prices are in a sluggish phase, but the base of interest is quietly widening, and this search data is viewed as another clue for gauging the next market cycle.