XLM’s Path to $0.60 and the Shifting Dynamics in the Cross-Border Payments Sector

In the ever-evolving landscape of blockchain and cross-border payments, Stellar (XLM) has emerged as a compelling case study. The token’s recent surge to $0.50 in July 2025, driven by the Protocol 23 upgrade and institutional partnerships, has reignited discussions about its potential to reach $0.60 by year-end. But this price target isn’t just a technical curiosity—it reflects a broader shift in how Layer-1 blockchains are redefining global finance.

The Technical Case for $0.60

XLM’s price action has been a rollercoaster. After a 7.34% drop in late August 2025, the token found support at $0.36, a critical Fibonacci retracement level [3]. Technical indicators like the RSI and MACD have since shown improving momentum, with a bullish engulfing pattern forming at $0.40 [4]. Analysts argue that a monthly close above $0.55 could trigger a structural shift, propelling XLM toward $0.60 [2]. This level is more than a number—it’s a psychological barrier that, if broken, could unlock a wave of retail and institutional buying.

However, the path isn’t without risks. A failure to clear $0.60 could lead to a retest of lower supports, such as $0.40 or even $0.35 [3]. The market is in a tight consolidation phase, and volatility remains a wildcard. Yet, the accumulation of buying pressure above key levels suggests that bulls are preparing for a breakout [4].

Strategic Positioning in Cross-Border Payments

What makes XLM’s $0.60 target plausible isn’t just technical analysis—it’s the token’s unique positioning in the cross-border payments sector. Stellar’s Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP) offers near-instant transaction finality (under 3 seconds) and fees as low as $0.00001 per transaction [1]. This contrasts sharply with Ethereum’s higher gas costs and slower settlement times, which, while improving post-Dencun, still lag behind Stellar’s efficiency [4].

Stellar’s focus on financial inclusion further differentiates it. By partnering with fintech firms in emerging markets, Stellar has become a backbone for remittances and microtransactions in regions with underdeveloped banking infrastructure [1]. For example, Franklin Templeton’s $445 million Treasury tokenization on Stellar in July 2025 demonstrated the network’s ability to handle large-scale institutional use cases [1]. Meanwhile, PayPal’s integration of PYUSD on Stellar added a retail tailwind, attracting users seeking low-cost cross-border solutions [1].

Competing with Ripple, Ethereum, and Solana

Stellar’s cross-border dominance isn’t unchallenged. Ripple (XRP) has long held sway in institutional corridors, with its RPCA consensus algorithm and partnerships with banks like Santander and UBS [1]. XRP’s role as a liquidity bridge in SWIFT-like transactions gives it an edge in traditional finance. However, Stellar’s open-source, decentralized model appeals to a broader audience, including small businesses and unbanked populations [1].

Ethereum, meanwhile, remains the gold standard for smart contract innovation but struggles with cost and speed in payments. Solana’s 65,000 TPS and low fees make it a formidable competitor, yet its ecosystem is still maturing compared to Stellar’s decade-long focus on payments [2]. For cross-border use cases, Stellar’s ISO 20022 compliance and proven track record with real-world assets (RWAs) give it a unique advantage [3].

The Bigger Picture: A Payments Revolution

The push for $0.60 isn’t just about Stellar—it’s about the broader shift toward blockchain-driven payments. As traditional systems like SWIFT face pressure to reduce costs and improve speed, Layer-1s like Stellar are filling the gap. The Protocol 23 upgrade, which enhances interoperability and tokenization capabilities, positions Stellar to capture a larger share of this market [1].

Yet, the token’s success hinges on execution. If Stellar can maintain its institutional partnerships and continue innovating in RWAs, the $0.60 target becomes more than a pipedream—it becomes a reflection of the network’s growing utility. Conversely, a failure to scale or retain market share against Solana or Ethereum could stall its ascent.

Conclusion: A High-Stakes Bet

XLM’s journey to $0.60 is a microcosm of the crypto industry’s broader tensions: decentralization vs. institutional adoption, speed vs. security, and niche specialization vs. broad utility. While the technical indicators and strategic positioning suggest optimism, investors must weigh these against the risks of market consolidation and competitive pressures. For those betting on a future where cross-border payments are fast, cheap, and accessible, Stellar’s $0.60 target isn’t just a price—it’s a statement of intent.

**Source:[1] Stellar (XLM) Surges Amid Protocol 23 Upgrade and Major Partnerships [https://blockchain.news/news/20250718-stellar-xlm-surges-amid-protocol-23-upgrade-and-major-partnerships-whats-next][2] Top 10 fastest cryptocurrency With highest TPS in 2025 [https://nowpayments.io/blog/top-10-cryptos-with-fastest-transactions][3] Stellar Targets $0.60 as Buying Pressure Builds Above Key Support [https://bravenewcoin.com/insights/stellar-targets-0-60-as-buying-pressure-builds-above-key-support][4] 10 Best Layer 1 Crypto Projects for 2025 [https://cryptonews.com/cryptocurrency/best-layer-1-crypto-projects/]