XRP's Sideways Trajectory in 2026: Analysts Await Key Catalysts

Experts in the crypto space suggest that XRP's price might remain stagnant as 2026 approaches unless significant bullish catalysts come into play.

Market Dynamics and Predictions

Jake Kennis, a senior research analyst at Nansen, expressed to Codeum that while the latter part of 2026 could be more favorable for risk assets, the short-term outlook for altcoins, including XRP, remains slightly bearish until Bitcoin stabilizes. Kennis refrains from making precise price forecasts for XRP in 2026 due to market uncertainties but highlights potential drivers such as the approval of spot ETFs, expanded integration with global payment systems, and efforts to position XRP as a liquidity or bridge asset.

XRP's Uncertain Start to 2026

Since the beginning of the year, XRP has fallen 14.63%, currently trading at $1.84 according to CoinMarketCap. Jesus Perez, CEO of Posidonia21 Capital Partners, told Codeum that XRP is likely to exhibit sideways price movement going into the new year. Perez noted that the asset may not initiate a strong new trend but could maintain its current levels in a stable market scenario.

"XRP's potential upside may hinge more on persistent narratives and market sentiment rather than fundamental changes," Perez added.

Spot XRP ETFs Show Strength

Although staking discussions are ongoing, the lack of a clear yield mechanism poses a structural challenge compared to rival assets, Perez stated.

Recently, US-based spot XRP ETFs exceeded $1 billion in assets, which Sui Chung, CEO of CF Benchmarks, attributes to the asset's established track record.

Related: Will 2026 usher in an altcoin season for ETH, BNB, XRP, SOL, and DOGE?

Overall, 2026 forecasts remain mixed among market analysts. Some suggest that Bitcoin's present conditions might hinder the broader crypto market from achieving new all-time highs.

Further Reading: Can Bitcoin withstand a decade-long power outage?