Concerns over XRP’s lack of significant price movement have led to speculation that institutional players may be deliberately suppressing its value. However, market analyst and software engineer Vincent Van Code has dismissed these claims, attributing XRP’s limited growth to market dynamics rather than a hidden agenda.
Following Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse’s recent announcement that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had dropped its appeal in the company’s long-standing lawsuit, XRP’s price rose only slightly, from $2.28 to $2.60. Many investors had expected the legal battle’s conclusion to drive a stronger rally, with some anticipating a break above the $3 mark. The lack of a substantial price surge has fueled speculation about potential external influences suppressing XRP’s value.
Market Manipulation and Trading Activity
Van Code addressed these concerns on social media platform X, explaining that market forces – including automated trading, arbitrage, and large-scale investments – drive price movements, rather than individual actions. He emphasized that XRP’s stagnant price is not the result of a coordinated effort by institutions but rather the typical behavior seen in cryptocurrency markets.
If you're wondering why #XRP price isn't pumping, remember when volumes are low, it's easy to manipulate price.
I have seen over 500 order (just with naked eye) below 6 XRP.
This is not manipulation. I will run a histogram of a full days transaction tomorrow I guarantee it's… pic.twitter.com/IzHNpzV6wP
— Vincent Van Code (@vincent_vancode) March 20, 2025
One key factor he identified was the impact of low trading volume, which makes it easier for large traders to manipulate price movements. He pointed to numerous small transactions—some involving less than 6 XRP—which he attributed to a practice known as “trade dusting.” This tactic artificially increases trading volume, creating an illusion of liquidity while allowing price control by those placing the orders.
Van Code also noted that XRP’s price was influenced by broader market conditions, particularly fluctuations in Bitcoin and Ethereum. He reassured investors that these manipulations were temporary and did not reflect XRP’s long-term potential.
Dismissing Claims of Institutional Suppression
Amid speculation that institutions influence XRP’s price downward to accumulate more tokens at lower prices, Van Code rejected the theory outright. He explained that the observed price fluctuations were not part of a strategic suppression effort but were driven by trading strategies intended to generate profit.
Responding to investor concerns, Van Code highlighted the role of high-frequency trading (HFT) bots, particularly those operated by Binance VIP customers. These traders, he claimed, have access to advanced trading data, allowing them to execute orders faster than retail investors. This advantage enables them to manipulate price movements, engaging in rapid buy-and-sell cycles that raise or depress prices.
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Additionally, Van Code alleged that most cryptocurrency exchanges rely on Binance for liquidity, further amplifying the influence of its trading practices. While he did not accuse Binance of direct manipulation, he argued that the exchange creates an environment where such activities can thrive. He also pointed out that Binance benefits financially from these market conditions, profiting from trading fees, liquidity incentives, and arbitrage opportunities.
The Case for Long-Term Investment
Van Code warned that retail investors are unlikely to succeed in short-term trading against high-frequency trading firms due to their significant advantages. Instead, he recommended a long-term holding strategy as the best approach for investors seeking to navigate these market conditions.
He explained that when trading volumes are low, market makers receive substantial incentives to provide liquidity, which can make price movements more erratic. As a result, he suggested that holding onto assets over the long term is a more viable strategy, as it minimizes the impact of short-term fluctuations caused by high-frequency trading.
While XRP’s price action has not met some investors’ expectations, market analysts emphasize that the asset’s long-term performance will be shaped by broader adoption and ecosystem growth rather than temporary market fluctuations.
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 urged to do in-depth 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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