Sunday, August 17, 2025

XRP: Are Profit-Taking Signals Flashing a Market Top?

XRP's recent surge has put a significant portion of holders in profit, mirroring past peaks.

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XRP: Are Profit-Taking Signals Flashing a Market Top?

XRP Holders in the Green: A Potential Turning Point?

The recent impressive rally of XRP has brought a significant proportion of its holders into a profitable position. Data indicates that nearly 94% of XRP‘s circulating supply is currently in profit, a metric that historically has served as a potential warning sign for a market top. This article delves into the implications of this on-chain data, explores potential price targets, and examines the bearish signals that are starting to emerge.

XRP percent supply in profit. Source: Glassnode
XRP percent supply in profit. Source: Glassnode

Historical Context: Echoes of Past Peaks

Examining past performance provides valuable context. In early 2018, when over 90% of XRP holders were in profit, the cryptocurrency reached a peak near $3.30 before experiencing a significant price correction. Similarly, in April 2021, high profitability levels preceded an 85% crash. These historical parallels warrant a closer examination of the current market dynamics.

On-Chain Metrics and Market Sentiment

The Net Unrealized Profit/Loss (NUPL) indicator provides further insights into market sentiment. XRP’s NUPL has entered the “belief-denial” zone, a phase that has often preceded market tops. This echoes the patterns observed in late 2017 and April 2021, when NUPL spiked to similar levels, coinciding with the peaks of XRP‘s price. This suggests a potential risk of a price correction.

XRP net unrealized profit/loss (NUPL). Source: Glassnode
XRP net unrealized profit/loss (NUPL). Source: Glassnode

The Risk of Profit-Taking and Distribution

The current high profitability underscores the potential for distribution. As investors realize their gains, selling pressure could intensify, potentially triggering a price downturn. This is a critical area to watch as it could lead to a significant price correction. Whether XRP can withstand this selling pressure and avoid a deeper correction depends on several factors, including attracting fresh capital and overall altcoin momentum.

Technical Analysis: Bearish Signals and Price Targets

From a technical analysis perspective, XRP is currently consolidating inside a descending triangle pattern, which is often viewed as bearish. A decisive breakdown below the support level of $3.05 could trigger a sell-off, with potential targets around $2.39. Conversely, if the bulls can break above the descending resistance line, they could invalidate the bearish setup and potentially drive the price higher, perhaps even to $6.00, according to some analysts.

Conclusion: Navigating the Uncertainties

While the current landscape indicates strong investor gains, the historical data and on-chain metrics suggest the risk of a potential market top. The future of XRP’s price will depend on various factors, including the ability to attract new investors and whether it can break through the bearish patterns. Investors should conduct their own research and consider all factors when evaluating the cryptocurrency.

XRP/USD four-hour price chart. Source: TradingView
XRP/USD four-hour price chart. Source: TradingView
Daniel Hayes
Daniel Hayes
Daniel Hayes is a seasoned cryptocurrency analyst specializing in market trends and trading strategies. With over a decade of experience in financial markets, Daniel provides in-depth analyses and price predictions to guide investors through the complexities of the crypto world.

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