XRP price projections suggest a potential 1,500% increase if the SEC approves an ETF. Could Ripple finally break through the $27 barrier?
Ripple’s Exciting Journey
Ripple (XRP) has undergone significant volatility in recent months, capturing the spotlight with dramatic price changes and crucial regulatory updates.
On January 16, the token soared to a multi-year high of $3.39, driven by optimistic market sentiment. However, this surge was short-lived.
As of February 17, XRP has retraced to $2.68, reflecting a 21% decline from its January peak and remaining around 31% shy of its all-time high of $3.89, achieved in January 2018.
Nonetheless, XRP remains a standout performer among the top 100 assets, showcasing an impressive 145% return over the past 90 days, outpacing established players like Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL), which have both seen declines.
Broader market forces are influencing XRP’s performance. The election of President Donald Trump has ushered in a more crypto-friendly environment in the U.S., enhancing investor confidence regarding digital assets. This shift has supported the positive trajectory of cryptocurrencies, including XRP.
In addition, the recent resignation of SEC Chair Gary Gensler has further tempered regulatory concerns, as market observers look forward to a more favorable environment under acting Chair Mark Uyeda.
With dynamic price movements and evolving regulatory landscapes, XRP’s potential future movements are a focus of interest. Let’s delve deeper into the XRP price forecast.
Is an XRP ETF on the Horizon?
In light of recent developments and fluctuations, XRP has been in the forefront of market discussions.
A crucial milestone occurred on February 13, when the SEC formally recognized a filing for a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) from the New York Stock Exchange and Grayscale Investments.
The proposal aims to convert Grayscale’s existing $16.1 million XRP Trust into a fully tradable ETF, with Coinbase Custody Trust Company acting as the custodian.
The SEC’s acknowledgment signifies that the review process has commenced, paving the way for a possible approval or rejection within a 240-day timeframe. The first major deadline is mid-March, initiating a 45-day review period, after which the SEC could decide or extend the timeline; a conclusion is anticipated by mid-October 2025.
Furthermore, the Chicago Board Options Exchange has filed a 19b-4 application for Bitwise’s XRP ETF, indicating growing interest in the market. Unlike Grayscale’s approach, which seeks to convert an existing trust, Bitwise aims to create a new fund altogether.
Matt Hougan, a key industry figure, highlighted the evolution of XRP ETF applications, noting that while some previous filings faced setbacks, the renewed interest from multiple issuers indicates the SEC’s openness to considering these financial products.
Hougan expressed cautious optimism, stating that although approval may require time, the SEC appears more willing to discuss these potential ETFs.
A pivotal distinction between XRP and other commodity-based ETFs, such as Bitcoin and gold, is that those assets had regulated futures markets prior to their ETF approvals, whereas XRP currently does not. While a futures market isn’t mandatory, it could influence the approval process.
The ongoing legal dispute between Ripple and the SEC adds another layer of complexity. Despite a partial victory for Ripple in August 2023, when a court ruled that XRP is not a security in secondary market transactions, regulatory uncertainties remain, making ETF approval more challenging for XRP compared to spot Bitcoin (BTC) or Ethereum ETFs.
Nate Geraci, president of an investment advisory firm, pointed out the irony of the SEC reviewing an XRP ETF while in litigation with Ripple, implying a potential shift in the SEC’s stance on XRP.
ETF analysts have estimated a 65% likelihood of XRP ETF approval by the end of 2025, adding to the excitement surrounding these developments.
XRP Faces a Pivotal Moment
XRP is approaching a critical juncture, nearing a resistance level that has historically influenced its trajectory.
Over recent months, XRP has tested the $3.15 to $3.50 range—a zone that has repeatedly determined whether the asset embarks on a significant rally or remains stagnant.
Following a peak of $3.39 on January 16, XRP experienced a dramatic plunge of 43% to $1.94 on February 3, triggered by external market pressures. Yet, it has since rebounded, approaching the same resistance threshold again.
Moreover, XRP is on the verge of completing a rounding bottom pattern that has been forming since 2018, which could indicate a significant shift in market dynamics.
Reaching its all-time high of $3.89 would mark the conclusion of a prolonged accumulation phase and initiate a price discovery phase, devoid of historical resistance to hinder its ascent.
What could provide the necessary momentum for this breakthrough? ETF approval stands out as a compelling catalyst, as regulatory greenlights could propel institutional demand and drive pricing upwards.
Strategic adoption also poses a major opportunity—if XRP is integrated into financial reserves or gains substantial institutional interest, demand could soar significantly.
Furthermore, the outcome of the SEC lawsuit appeal could serve as a turning point; a dismissal may pave the way for renewed buying interest.
As XRP aims to break through historic barriers, market participants are keenly observing whether it will achieve a breakthrough or repeat past patterns. The upcoming challenge to surpass the $3.50 threshold may prove monumental.
XRP Price Forecast: Are We Witnessing a Repeat of History?
XRP’s previous bull run in 2017 serves as an essential reference, with indicators suggesting a current setup reminiscent of that period.
Technical analysis from industry experts indicates that XRP is in a favorable position above key support levels, hinting at potential bullish momentum. The current situation parallels patterns observed in 2017, which preceded a 1,500% price surge in just weeks.
With market observers echoing the bullish sentiment, there are compelling forecasts suggesting XRP could revisit substantial price points, potentially reaching $27 if conditions align.
An upcoming challenge lies in breaking through the $3.50 resistance, as achieving significant price movements requires not only favorable market conditions but strategic catalysts.
As XRP stands on the brink of potential explosive growth, risk management remains paramount for traders. Careful planning and strategic execution will be critical in navigating the uncertain terrain ahead.
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
