There are frequent discussions related to the volatility of crypto and why it seems to be tied to the BTC.

BTC is the original cryptocurrency it's the standard on which other cryptocoins are based, so in an unfamiliar market cash and run investors will use it as an indicator.

What's interesting about that is "cash and run". This type of investor buys into blockchain for profit, and only for profit. By being a market maker or following the market makers they are able to buy in cycles (this is actually what drives the peaks and valleys).

Market makers rely on smaller investors to "sell" when there is a valley and "buy" when values seem to be climbing, because they are doing exactly the opposite to make their quick turnovers.

Unfortunately, few cryptocoins are based in anything other than market value. The Bitcoin doesn't really bring anything to the table that hasn't been replicated cheaper by a myriad of alt-coins. Because of this, the value of Bitcoin is likely to gradually level out with the price of other market based altcoins.

There are two alts, that I know of, presenting value outside of the market value. Ethereum, which is offering a dapp platform for smart contracts, and Steem, which is providing an engagement community and dapp opportunity for users. Both of these models are significantly more stable than the market approach and act more like an investment where Bitcoin acts more like a FIAT currency.

That said, if you're a wave rider or market maker, BUY UP! you're at a pretty good point in the roller coaster. If you're looking for a growth investment, do some research on ETH, ETC, and STEEM ... they have pretty awesome potential.