Why Some Analysts Say XRP Could Outpace Bitcoin This Cycle

While Bitcoin’s price surge continues to grab headlines, a growing number of market watchers are shifting their attention to XRP — and one analyst argues that its upside potential may quietly outshine the leading cryptocurrency.

With BTC trading well above $100,000 and approaching a possible $200,000 ceiling, the room for explosive growth is narrowing, according to crypto researcher Ripple Van Winkle. In contrast, XRP — still hovering around the $2.30 mark — has far more space to run, especially if current momentum holds and legal clouds begin to clear.

“XRP at $2 has 3x to 5x written all over it,” the analyst said, pointing to $8–$12 as a realistic price range for the next major leg up. By comparison, Bitcoin’s projected 2x return feels modest, he argued.

Fueling the bullish case for XRP is the long-awaited resolution of its legal standoff with the SEC. A potential settlement could remove one of the last major overhangs on the asset, opening the door for wider institutional adoption.

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XRP’s appeal also lies in its utility. With fast transaction speeds and low fees, it’s gaining traction in discussions around government reserves and enterprise use — even as Ripple Labs pursues acquisitions like Hidden Road and reportedly eyes stablecoin giant Circle.

Market conditions are adding more intrigue. While geopolitical stress, like rising tensions between India and Pakistan, casts shadows on Bitcoin’s sustainability, XRP’s fundamentals are drawing fresh capital — especially in crypto-friendly zones like Missouri, which recently advanced tax incentives tied to digital asset holdings.

As more investors rebalance their portfolios, some are betting that XRP — not Bitcoin — will be this cycle’s surprise standout.

Alexander Stefanov