The crypto market has started 2026 with strong momentum. $Bitcoin has reclaimed levels above $90,000 and is pushing toward the psychological $100,000 mark, pulling the rest of the market higher. As confidence returns, liquidity is flowing back into altcoins — and $XRP is one of the biggest beneficiaries of this move.
Bitcoin price in USD YTD - TradingView
Historically, when Bitcoin breaks higher after consolidation, large-cap altcoins tend to follow with explosive moves. XRP is now clearly playing catch-up after weeks of sideways trading.
Looking at the chart, XRP spent the end of 2025 trading in a tight range between $1.80 and $2.00, building a solid base. That consolidation phase ended as buying pressure accelerated in early January.
XRP/USD 1H - TradingView
Key developments on the chart:
This move came with increasing volatility and momentum, typical of breakout phases rather than slow trend continuation.
From a technical perspective, XRP is now trading above several important levels:
As long as XRP holds above $2.20, the bullish structure remains intact.
The Stochastic RSI on the lower timeframe shows short-term cooling after the sharp push higher, which is normal after aggressive rallies and could lead to brief consolidation before the next move.
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If the broader crypto market remains strong and Bitcoin continues to hold above key levels, XRP could be setting up for the following scenarios:
Bullish scenario:
A clean break above $2.50 could send XRP toward $2.80, with $3.00 coming into play if momentum accelerates.
Consolidation scenario:
XRP may range between $2.20 and $2.40 before attempting the next breakout.
Bearish invalidation:
A drop back below $2.00 would weaken the bullish setup and delay higher targets.


