XRP has surged 31.5% since the start of the year, pushing its market capitalization above $159 billion, reclaiming its position as the third largest cryptocurrency after Bitcoin and Ether. The surge to $2.89, the highest since December 3, 2024, was partly due to XRP flipping Tether USD in market cap. Ripple's XRP now sits past the valuation of BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, which is at $149 billion. This remarkable achievement is attributed to new partnerships, product developments from Ripple Labs, speculations of an XRP ETF, and potential regulatory changes following the expected resignation of SEC Chair Gary Gensler. Analysts predict XRP could reach between $4 and $5 in the short term, with some estimating a potential high of $27 by the end of 2025, driven by favorable political conditions and market sentiment. This rally follows a recent market boost linked to a significant legal ruling in Ripple's favor against the SEC in August 2024.

Source 🔗