$XRP , the native digital asset of Ripple Labs, has surged into the market spotlight following a sharp rally that pushed its price to a high of $2.40 before a modest correction. Once priced in mere cents, XRP has temporarily overtaken Tether (USDT) in market capitalization, becoming the third-largest cryptocurrency. The spike signals rising interest from both retail traders and institutional players.



Prominent Backers Fuel Retail Curiosity


Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy recently shared his crypto-related frustrations after being outbid on a Miami property by a crypto millionaire. “Bitcoin’s up to about $100K. I’ve been grinding for 20 years—of course there’s FOMO,” he said.


Despite expressing doubts about XRP’s branding, Portnoy disclosed that he’s buying in anyway—echoing a growing sentiment: “What if XRP is the next Bitcoin?”



Legal Clouds Begin to Lift


Since December 2020, Ripple has been embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which alleges that XRP was sold as an unregistered security. The lawsuit cast a long shadow over XRP’s prospects, prompting exchange delistings and investor caution.


Now, with reports of progress in settlement talks, the mood is shifting. A favorable outcome could clear the path for wider institutional engagement, renewed exchange listings, and increased regulatory confidence.



Global Utility Supports Long-Term Vision


Unlike many crypto assets driven purely by speculation, XRP has been actively integrated into Ripple’s global payment solutions. The company has inked deals with banks and financial firms around the world, positioning XRP as a bridge currency for cross-border transactions.


Although it still lags behind Bitcoin in adoption and decentralization, XRP is increasingly seen as a serious contender in the blockchain finance space.



Outlook: Inflection Point or Overhyped?


As XRP regains market momentum, speculation around its long-term potential is mounting. With legal resolution seemingly in sight, expanding use cases, and investor sentiment on the rise, comparisons to Bitcoin’s early breakout are becoming more frequent.


The question remains: Is this the beginning of XRP’s next chapter—or just another peak in crypto’s ever-volatile cycle?



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