XRP traded near $2.50 on Thursday as analysts projected the cryptocurrency could surge above $6 if it breaks through resistance levels, though the digital asset remains more than 30% below its seven-year-old record high of $3.80.

What to Know:

• XRP has maintained higher lows during its year-long consolidation period, suggesting underlying bullish sentiment despite downward price action
• The cryptocurrency rallied over 600% in November 2024 before entering its current trading range between support and resistance levels
• A decline below $2 would signal the end of the bull rally and could push prices toward $1 in an extended consolidation phase

Technical Patterns Point to Potential Breakout

The cryptocurrency has spent nearly a year consolidating after its late 2024 rally, holding above progressively higher support levels. Pseudonymous crypto analyst Guy on the Earth published technical analysis indicating XRP could be positioning for a significant upward move.

The pattern of higher lows during consolidation typically indicates accumulation by investors, even as prices move sideways or trend slightly downward. This technical formation often precedes major breakouts in either direction.

XRP's price action mirrors consolidation phases that preceded previous rallies.

The November 2024 surge, which saw the token climb more than 600% before peaking, followed a similar period of range-bound trading. Market observers note the current setup shares characteristics with that earlier pattern.

The cryptocurrency needs to clear $3 with sustained volume to confirm bullish momentum. That level represents a critical resistance point that has capped recent attempts at upward movement.

Market Scenarios and Risk Factors

Guy on the Earth's analysis suggests XRP could enter what traders call a "euphoric phase," potentially driving prices to $6. That target would represent a gain exceeding 100% from current levels and mark the first new all-time high since 2018, when the token reached its $3.80 peak during the previous crypto market cycle.

The bullish scenario depends on XRP maintaining support above key technical levels.

Failure to hold $2 would invalidate the current consolidation pattern and likely trigger additional selling pressure. Such a breakdown could extend the consolidation phase and push prices toward $1, according to the analyst's framework.

Bitcoin's price trajectory will likely influence XRP's direction, as the largest cryptocurrency often sets the tone for broader market moves. A sustained Bitcoin rally could provide the momentum needed for altcoins including XRP to break out of their trading ranges.

The cryptocurrency faces resistance from its extended period below all-time highs. While many digital assets set new records during recent market cycles, XRP has traded below its 2018 peak for more than seven years.

Understanding Crypto Market Phases

Consolidation in cryptocurrency markets refers to periods when an asset trades within a defined range, typically after sharp price movements. These phases allow markets to establish new support and resistance levels as buyers and sellers reach temporary equilibrium.

A euphoric phase describes the final stage of a bull market when prices accelerate rapidly, often accompanied by high trading volumes and widespread investor interest. These periods historically precede market corrections as prices become detached from underlying fundamentals.

All-time highs represent the highest price ever achieved by an asset. For cryptocurrencies, breaking previous records often generates additional buying interest as it signals the asset has surpassed earlier peak valuations.

Closing Thoughts

XRP's technical setup presents both bullish potential and downside risks. The cryptocurrency must clear $3 with momentum to confirm the consolidation phase has ended and a new uptrend is beginning.

The token's year-long consolidation pattern and higher lows suggest underlying accumulation, though failure to break resistance or loss of the $2 support level would invalidate the bullish thesis and potentially trigger extended declines toward $1.