XRP Could Outperform Bitcoin as XRP/BTC Chart Shows Rare Ichimoku Breakout Since 2018

XRP has surged 17% over the past week, pushing its price back above the $2.20 threshold according to TradingView. This rise is supported by strong ETF demand, with XRP ETFs attracting $483 million in inflows over the past weeks. In contrast, Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs have seen significant outflows, highlighting a shift in investor sentiment toward XRP and altcoins.

The XRP/BTC ratio is showing a rare Ichimoku breakout, which historically signals that XRP could outperform Bitcoin. Chartist 'The Great Mattsby' noted that this setup is drawing attention as cross-asset rotation narratives re-emerge early in 2026. Analysts argue that this relative-strength indicator could become significant if confirmed, as it suggests growing demand for XRP relative to Bitcoin.

ETF inflows into XRP have been steady, with XRP ETFs recording $1.3 billion in inflows since their launch in November. This trend is supported by institutional interest, with BlackRock's potential XRP ETF filing seen as a credibility boost for the token. In contrast, Bitcoin ETFs have seen outflows, while Ethereum ETFs have also faced losses.

Why Did This Happen?

XRP's recent price action has been characterized by high-volume moves and a stabilization of demand around key levels. On January 6, XRP saw a sharp drop to $2.21, followed by a surge in buying interest that stabilized the price. This behavior is typical of a capitulation-style flush, where aggressive selling is followed by a lack of follow-through, suggesting strong underlying demand.

The technical setup for XRP is being closely watched by traders, with the key resistance level at $2.31–$2.32. A successful reclaim of this range could signal a trend resumption, while a failure to break through would keep the short-term structure bearish. Analysts argue that the market structure is currently showing signs of stabilization, with multiple defenses of the $2.258–$2.260 range.

How Did Markets React?

The market has responded to XRP's ETF success with a mixed outlook. While institutional demand has increased, the token has struggled to maintain a price above $2. This tension is evident in the current on-chain data, where daily active addresses on the XRP Ledger have dropped significantly. Despite these challenges, whale activity has increased, with large holders adding to their positions.

Standard Chartered has maintained its $8 price target for XRP, citing improving US regulations and successful ETF inflows as key drivers. This forecast implies a potential 300% rise from current levels. However, some analysts warn of a possible double top pattern, which could signal a peak and subsequent decline.

Overall, the market for XRP is at a critical juncture. While technical indicators suggest a potential breakout, the token's ability to maintain institutional demand will be key to determining its long-term trajectory. Analysts argue that the current setup is one of the strongest in the cycle, with price action supporting the $20 hypothesis.