XRP, the cryptocurrency backed by Ripple Labs, is making headlines as its price reaches levels not seen in three years. But the excitement isn’t just about its rising value. Futures open interest for XRP has soared to a record high of nearly $2.10 billion, signaling increased activity from traders. Some market experts even believe XRP could follow the same pattern as 2018 when it skyrocketed to $3.
Record-Breaking Futures Activity
Over the past week, XRP has surged more than 97%, standing out as one of the top-performing assets in the crypto market. Despite a slight dip from its peak of $1.25, XRP continues to show strong momentum.
XRP’s rise is also seen in its futures trading. Open interest hit a new record on Saturday, with over 2 billion tokens worth nearly $2 billion held in futures contracts. This shows more traders are getting involved, expecting bigger price movements.
Meanwhile, Nick Forster, the founder of a DeFi protocol, said, “The rise in XRP futures open interest shows more traders are interested, which often means they expect prices to go up.”
However, not everyone agrees. Data shows 51% of traders are betting on prices falling, showing mixed views about XRP’s future.
Ripple’s legal battles have significantly influenced XRP’s recent success. In July 2023, a federal judge ruled that XRP is not a security when sold to retail investors. This decision brought much-needed clarity, lifting uncertainty around XRP for years.
While Ripple was fined $125 million for institutional sales, the ruling was seen as a major victory for the company and its community. Perhaps, the SEC has appealed the decision, with a deadline set for January 2025.
Could XRP Repeat Its 2018 Rally?
XRP’s recent price movements remind many of its historic rally in 2018 when it soared to $3. Bullish chart patterns, like a symmetrical triangle formation, have fueled speculation that XRP could reach those heights again.
