A recent update shared by Cointelegraph outlines a cautious outlook for XRP as the market approaches 2026, with analysts largely expecting extended sideways price movement in the absence of new bullish triggers.
The assessment reflects a wider view that XRP, like many alternative digital assets, may struggle to establish a sustained upward trend until market conditions improve and additional catalysts materialize.
According to the Cointelegraph report attached to the tweet, analysts believe XRP could remain in a consolidation phase into the new year. While longer-term prospects are not dismissed, near-term momentum is expected to remain limited, particularly if broader market leadership from Bitcoin does not stabilize.
🚨 NOW: Analysts expect XRP to chop sideways in 2026 until new bullish catalysts appear. pic.twitter.com/OVsfSqUQoU
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) December 27, 2025
Second-Half 2026 Viewed as More Favorable
The article cites analysis from Nansen senior research analyst Jake Kennis, which suggests that the latter half of 2026 may present more supportive conditions for XRP and other risk assets. This outlook is tied to expectations of improved macro and market dynamics rather than asset-specific developments alone.
In the near term, however, analysts maintain a slightly bearish stance on altcoins, indicating that XRP’s performance may remain subdued until Bitcoin completes a period of consolidation or establishes a clearer bottom.
Notably, no precise price targets for XRP were provided. Instead, the focus remains on identifying developments that could eventually alter the asset’s trajectory.
Potential Catalysts Identified
While short-term expectations remain restrained, several potential catalysts were highlighted as factors that could support a stronger move higher over time.
These include the possibility of spot XRP exchange-traded fund approvals, deeper integration with global payment infrastructure, and broader efforts to position XRP as a liquidity or bridge asset within financial systems.
Such developments are viewed as necessary to shift XRP away from range-bound trading and toward a more defined trend. Until then, consolidation is considered the more likely scenario.
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Market Sentiment and ETF Activity
Echoing a similar view, Jesus Perez, CEO of Posidonia21 Capital Partners, expressed expectations that XRP could hold around current levels rather than initiate a strong new trend at the start of 2026. This perspective emphasizes that XRP’s upside may depend more on sustained market narratives and sentiment than on immediate structural changes.
Despite the cautious outlook, Cointelegraph noted that US-based spot XRP exchange-traded funds have shown notable strength in recent weeks, surpassing $1 billion in assets under management earlier this month. Market observers attribute part of this demand to XRP’s long-standing presence in the digital asset market and familiarity among investors.
The report also highlights divisions among analysts regarding the wider crypto market’s direction in 2026. Some analysts point to current Bitcoin conditions as a limiting factor for altcoins attempting to reach new highs, reinforcing expectations that XRP’s performance will remain closely tied to broader market trends in the months ahead.
Disclaimer: This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses.
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