XRP at the crossroads – can the $2.60 breakout lead to something bigger?

Introduction

Launched in 2012, XRP is designed for fast and low-cost cross-border payments. Along with other cryptocurrencies, it forms a three-layer foundation for a digital future.

Before exploring the implications, it is worth noting a crucial event: in late October 2025, the XRP price reached a high, allowing XRP to (briefly) become the fourth-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalisation.

What happened?

Backed by higher-than-usual trading volume, the XRP price cleared a key resistance level around $2.63.

According to fund managers, institutional interest saw “hundreds of millions” flowing into XRP-exposed vehicles. However, analysts warn that further buying will confirm it as a breakout rather than just a short-term spike.

Adding to the momentum are regulatory developments, such as the resolution of a long-standing legal battle with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Cryptocurrency influencers and thought leaders share the bullish outlook of The XRP Army, a community of XRP holders and enthusiasts who are very vocal in their optimism about XRP on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit.

What could happen next?

Investors must keep their eyes on the following scenarios:

• The optimistic scenario: If XRP continues to hold above ~$2.60, institutional flows increase, and regulatory/ETF clarity, the short-term target for the XRP price is $3.00+, potentially $4 to $5 before year-end.
• The moderate scenario: The breakout holds and momentum is steady, the XRP price could drift between ~$2.60 to $3.00 (consolidation phase).
• The risk scenario: If the breakout fails and support breaks, the XRP price could tumble towards ~$2.40 or lower in the short term.

If you are not a full-time trader, should you care?

Yes, because XRP’s story matters. Here is why:

• It shows that technical price levels (resistance vs support) matter, even in cryptocurrency.
• It reflects how bigger forces (institutional money and regulatory clarity) can influence cryptocurrency beyond retail hype.
• It is a reminder that the upside is real – as is the risk.

Conclusion

The XRP price is at a pivotal moment. The breakout at ~$2.60 is promising. However, what matters now is whether XRP is holding the ground, allowing broader forces to push it upwards.

XRP followers should look for support near $2.50, strong volume, and any announcements regarding regulatory clarity or ETF development. If these “stars” align, the XRP price could move to $3 and beyond. If they don’t, followers should prepare for a bumpier ride.

CoinDCX says: “Long-term upside depends on ecosystem growth, enterprise-grade adoption, and new on-chain liquidity solutions. Traders asking: ‘Will XRP rise again?’ should watch for consistent closes above $3 and improvements in network activity as early signals of trend reversal”.

While institutional interest in XRP is a stabilising factor, macroeconomic uncertainty continues to put pressure on XRP. According to CoinDCX, post October 2025, regulatory clarity or ETF developments could trigger renewed optimism in XRP.