XRP, the sixth-largest cryptocurrency by market cap, is facing a staggering 470 million sell-off as large investors, known as whales, cash out amid shaky price momentum. The XRP price movement has struggled to break past the crucial 2.56 resistance level, sparking fears of a deeper pullback to $2.12.
Data from Glassnode reveals that realized profits from XRP sales hit their highest level since early March, signaling that traders are taking profits rather than holding for further gains.
“This kind of selloff usually indicates weak conviction in the short-term upside,” said Marcus Sotiriou, analyst at digital asset broker GlobalBlock. “If Bitcoin doesn’t rally soon, XRP could see more downside.”
XRP price movement: whale activity fuels selling pressure
Santiment data shows that large XRP holders have been steadily reducing their positions over the past week. Whale transactions (worth over $1 million) have spiked, suggesting that high-net-worth investors are exiting.
“The XRP price movement is heavily influenced by whale actions,” noted crypto analyst Ali Martinez. “When whales sell en masse, retail investors often panic, leading to cascading sell-offs.”
This isn’t the first time XRP has faced such pressure. In early March, a similar selloff followed a brief price surge, pushing XRP down nearly 20% in a week.
Key resistance remains a major hurdle
Despite a 45-day uptrend, XRP has failed to break free from a four-month downtrend line. Technical charts indicate that each attempt to surpass $2.56 has been met with heavy selling.
At press time, XRP is trading at 2.37, barely holding above the 2.27 support level. If this level breaks, analysts predict a drop to $2.12. “The lack of strong buying interest at this stage is concerning,” said TradingView analyst CryptoYoddha. “Unless Bitcoin triggers a broader altcoin rally, XRP could remain trapped in this range.”
Can Bitcoin’s rally save XRP?
The XRP price movement often mirrors Bitcoin’s performance. With Bitcoin flirting near its all-time high, some analysts believe a breakout could lift XRP. “If BTC surges past $75,000, altcoins like XRP could see renewed momentum,” said Michaël van de Poppe, CEO of MN Trading.
A successful push above 2.56 could invalidate the bearish outlook and set XRP on a path toward 3.00. However, failure to hold current levels may lead to extended losses.
Regulatory concerns add to uncertainty
Beyond market dynamics, XRP’s legal battle with the SEC continues to loom. While Ripple scored a partial victory last year, the case remains unresolved, keeping some investors cautious. “Until there’s full regulatory clarity, institutional money may stay on the sidelines,” said attorney John Deaton, a vocal XRP advocate.
What’s next for XRP?
The XRP price movement hinges on three key factors:
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Bitcoin’s trend – A strong BTC rally could pull XRP higher.
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Whale accumulation – If large buyers return, selling pressure may ease.
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Regulatory developments – A favorable SEC resolution could boost confidence.
For now, traders remain on edge. As one Reddit user put it: “XRP always tests patience. If you believe in the long-term, this dip might be a buying opportunity. But if you’re short-term, be careful—it’s volatile.”
With $470 million exiting the market, the XRP price movement is at a critical juncture. The next few days could determine whether it rebounds or retreats further.