Ripple's XRP is currently trading in the green zone as the price continues to move within a triangular pattern, indicating market indecision. It is difficult to predict whether this pattern will break upward or downward, but this consolidation is often a precursor to significant movements in either direction. Currently, prices are maintaining a certain range, and the market is trying to determine its next move.

Sideways movements may feel boring, but this is a healthy market behavior that allows prices to build strength before a rise. As long as XRP stays above key support levels, especially at the $2.04 price point, the bullish trend will remain intact. Breaking out of this consolidation phase could allow XRP to test higher levels, with $3 potentially being the next resistance level, and it could even set a new all-time high.

XRP's bullish flag is unfolding!

The bullish flag pattern is a reliable continuation signal in technical analysis, indicating further upward potential. For XRP, this pattern has drawn attention as it suggests that the cryptocurrency may be preparing for the next upward move.

XRP's price will initially surge, forming a 'flagpole' driven by strong positive momentum and high trading volume. This is followed by a consolidation phase, where the price fluctuates within a narrow range, usually moving downward or sideways. This consolidation represents a temporary pause in the upward trend, allowing the market to digest the gains. It shows resilience, indicating that selling pressure is manageable, and the bullish trend may resume.

Flag pattern stimulates XRP's upward movement | Source: XRPUSDT on Tradingview.com

Furthermore, when the price breaks above the upper boundary of the flag and resumes its previous upward trajectory, the pattern is validated. This breakout would signal renewed buying interest and could potentially test higher price levels.

Key indicators to watch include the increase in trading volume during the breakout, as this validates market participation and bullish sentiment. Additionally, XRP must maintain its momentum above resistance levels to avoid the risk of a false breakout.

XRP still has a glimmer of hope

Unlike other top altcoins that lost momentum after the election, XRP still has a significant number of profit-taking investors. Recently breaking through two key levels keeps FOMO alive. However, if the bearish trend continues and XRP falls below the critical $2 threshold, panic may spread. Concerns about further losses could trigger a series of sell-offs, plunging XRP into a more severe decline.

On the daily chart, XRP surged to $2.80 after the election, clearly showing signs of an overheated market. With a series of green long candles lighting up the chart over the past weeks, profit-taking is just a matter of time.

Currently, XRP is caught in a high-risk tug of war—whales are trying to keep the price stable, while sellers are looking to cash out. Interestingly, this tension may set the stage for future bullish movements.

Zooming in on the 12-hour chart, we can see strong liquidity at $2.18, where it seems that 1.75 million leveraged positions are at play. If XRP can hold this level, it may trigger a rebound, creating the perfect storm for a short squeeze.

For savvy investors seeking 'buy low' opportunities, this is undoubtedly a rare chance, especially amid BTC's consolidation. If XRP remains strong, it could take the lead, providing potential for a robust rebound in the future.

Therefore, for those looking to invest in altcoins during the ongoing market fluctuations, this could be a good time.