XRP saw a notable 3% increase on Wednesday following the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) announcement of the formation of a new cryptocurrency task force. The task force’s mission is to create a clearer and more comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets, including cryptocurrencies like XRP. This news has fueled optimism among investors, particularly regarding the potential for greater regulatory clarity and an eventual resolution of Ripple’s ongoing legal battle with the SEC.
SEC Task Force and Ripple’s Legal Battle
The formation of the SEC’s crypto task force may pave the way for Ripple to resolve its long-standing court case with the SEC. The case, which has stretched for nearly four years, has cast uncertainty over XRP’s status as a security or commodity. There is growing speculation that the new SEC leadership, under acting chairman Mark Uyeda, may be inclined to drop or settle the case as part of a broader effort to overhaul crypto regulations.
The SEC has scheduled a closed-door meeting for Thursday, where key topics such as the resolution of litigation claims and enforcement matters will be discussed. Ripple’s case could be a focal point of the meeting, adding to speculation that the SEC may withdraw its case against Ripple, potentially benefiting the token’s price.
Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer, Stuart Alderoty, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the SEC’s new crypto task force, highlighting his optimism for clearer regulatory guidelines under the new leadership. Ripple executives are also making efforts to strengthen ties with the Trump administration, with recent reports of a dinner meeting with President Trump.
XRP ETF Filings on the Rise
Investor optimism around regulatory clarity has been further amplified by the increasing number of XRP Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) filings in the U.S. Asset managers are positioning themselves for a potential wave of ETF approvals following the SEC’s formation of the crypto task force. Currently, there are 11 XRP ETF filings, including from prominent firms such as ProShares, Bitwise, Canary Capital, WisdomTree, 21Shares, Rex/Osprey, and Teucrium.
These filings are seen as a sign that the market is expecting XRP to be included in future investment products, which could drive further demand and institutional interest in the digital asset. XRP’s role in remittances and its growing ecosystem could make it an attractive option for investors looking to gain exposure to the crypto space.
XRP Market Activity and Price Action
In addition to the regulatory developments, XRP’s exchange reserves across the three largest exchanges—Binance, Bithumb, and Upbit—have been trending downward, indicating that investors are withdrawing their holdings for long-term storage. Over the past two weeks, more than 300 million XRP has been withdrawn, signaling increased confidence in XRP’s long-term prospects.
XRP has also seen significant activity in the futures market, with $6.91 million in XRP futures traded in the past 24 hours. Liquidations amounted to $4.38 million in long positions and $2.53 million in short positions.
Technical Outlook: Bullish Flag Pattern in Development
XRP is currently forming a bullish flag pattern after consolidating between the $2.90 and $3.38 range. This consolidation follows a previous bullish pennant breakout on January 11, signaling continued upside momentum. If XRP manages to break above the upper boundary of the flag pattern with a high-volume move, it could trigger a continuation of the uptrend that has been in play since November.
A breakout above $3.38 would likely position XRP for a potential new all-time high above $3.55, further extending its upward momentum. On the downside, if XRP faces rejection at the flag’s upper resistance, support is expected to hold at the $2.90 level. A daily candlestick close below $2.33, however, would invalidate the bullish thesis and suggest a potential reversal in price action.
Conclusion: Positive Sentiment for XRP
The formation of the SEC’s crypto task force and the growing number of XRP ETF filings are contributing to a positive market outlook for XRP. As the token continues to consolidate and break key technical resistance levels, it remains well-positioned for further gains, especially if regulatory clarity is achieved. Investors will closely monitor the upcoming SEC meeting and any potential developments regarding Ripple’s legal case, as these factors could be pivotal in driving XRP’s future price trajectory.
Related topics:
Chipotle Doubles Investment in Cultivate Next Fund to $100M to Fuel Sustainability and Innovation
Dollar Slips as U.S. Inflation Eases and Yen Rises on Rate Hike Bets
Chipotle Doubles Investment in Cultivate Next Fund to $100M to Fuel Sustainability and Innovation