In the past year, the altcoin XRP has shown remarkable performance in the cryptocurrency market, gaining 257.9% in value. In contrast, Bitcoin $84,481 has only risen by 20.8%, and Ethereum
$1,893 has decreased by over 46.6%. This disparity in price performance has led some experts to predict that XRP may surpass both Bitcoin and Ethereum in the future. Notably, the experienced crypto analyst known as Dark Defender has highlighted intriguing reasons for XRP’s potential rise.
Why XRP May Have an Edge Over Bitcoin and Ethereum?
Dark Defender claimed on a platform that XRP is in a more advantageous position compared to BTC and ETH. The primary reason cited for this assertion is regulatory clarity. It is known that a U.S. judge, Analisa Torres, ruled last year that XRP is not a security. This decision marked a significant turning point in the ongoing case between the SEC and Ripple $2. The SEC’s decision to drop the lawsuit against Ripple signifies a more stable phase in the legal process.
Additionally, the United States’ initiative to create a cryptocurrency reserve may present potential opportunities for XRP. There are discussions about the possibility of including XRP in the cryptocurrency stock created by an executive order signed by President Donald Trump. This could lead to XRP gaining official recognition and potentially have a substantial impact on its price.
Approval of Spot XRP ETF and New Stablecoin Plans
Another potential development highlighted by the analyst is the possibility of a spot ETF for XRP being approved by the SEC. Polls conducted on the predictive market platform Polymarket indicate an 84% probability of spot XRP ETF approval occurring within 2025. This figure signifies strong expectations among investors.

Moreover, there are reports that Ripple is preparing to enter the stablecoin market. This move could expand the XRP ecosystem and increase interest in the altcoin. Experts believe that such projects can enhance both on-chain transaction volumes and investor confidence.
Short-Term Predictions for XRP Price: Rise or Fall?
Dark Defender noted the formation of a “bullish rectangle” pattern in the XRP price chart. If this pattern breaks upward, the price could potentially rise to $11. Another analyst, Javon Marks, drew attention to the Relative Strength Index (RSI) data, which currently stands at 42.90, indicating potential growth. According to Marks, XRP could experience a rise of up to 570%.
However, not everyone shares the optimistic outlook of Dark Defender and Javon Marks. Experienced trader Peter Brandt argued that a “head and shoulders” formation is appearing in the XRP chart. This technical formation suggests a possible price decline. Brandt believes that if XRP’s price falls below $1.90, it could drop as low as $1.07.