XRP Faces Critical Test as Bitcoin Eyes Next Leg Up

XRP is at a crucial juncture as Bitcoin consolidates around the $104,000 mark, showing strong accumulation and potential for a bullish breakout. While Bitcoin signals strength, XRP is hesitating, a risky stance amid a broader crypto rally.

Technically, XRP recently broke out of a long-term descending wedge — a bullish reversal pattern — rallying toward $2.60 before pulling back to $2.38. This correction puts pressure on key support levels: the 26-day EMA at $2.31 and the 50-day EMA at $2.25. Holding above these averages is vital; a break below could trigger a drop to $2.10 or even $2.00, nullifying bullish momentum.

Despite the breakout, the token’s failure to mirror Bitcoin’s strength raises concerns. If BTC surges past $106,000 and XRP fails to follow, it may reflect weak buying conviction or investor uncertainty, increasing XRP’s vulnerability to a deeper correction.

Trading volume has declined alongside recent red candles, signaling cautious buyers but not an overwhelming selloff. This creates a mixed sentiment — neither overtly bullish nor strongly bearish. However, reclaiming the $2.50 zone could revive momentum and revalidate the breakout.

As Bitcoin nears a potential move higher and Ethereum flirts with the $3,000 level, all eyes are on XRP. The divergence in performance could either present a delayed breakout opportunity or signal a looming downturn. XRP's ability to hold $2.30 in the coming sessions will likely determine whether it rallies or retreats.

Search interest in “XRP breakout,” “XRP vs Bitcoin,” and “XRP price prediction” is rising, underscoring growing market attention. Investors should closely watch XRP’s response to Bitcoin’s next move to assess if it can regain bullish traction or face further downside pressure.