XRP ($2.21) shocked the crypto market by climbing past $1 for the first time in three years. On November 16, the token reached $1.2679, a 64% rise from the previous day’s low of $0.7726. Earlier in November, XRP traded at just $0.4930, marking a massive 158% surge. 

Rally Surprises Market  

The sharp rally caught many off guard after years of underperformance. Ripple’s CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, credited the rise to easing regulatory pressures in the cryptocurrency industry. This shift coincided with Donald Trump’s recent presidential election victory.  

Related article: XRP’s Bullish Comeback: Strong Support and New Targets in Sight

With Trump set to take office in January 2025, investors anticipate major regulatory changes. Many expect the replacement of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler, which could alter the ongoing Ripple vs. SEC lawsuit. The case, now in its appeal phase, has sparked optimism about a potential dismissal under Trump’s administration. Gensler’s recent reflective remarks led to speculation about his possible resignation before Trump’s term begins.  

Global Interest Peaks  

The rally drove a surge in global interest. Google Trends data shows search interest for XRP peaked at 100 on November 16, up from 8 on November 8. Countries like Australia, South Africa, Canada, and the U.S. saw significant increases in search activity. The last comparable spike occurred in April 2021, when XRP hit $1.96. As at writing, XRP is being traded at $1.14.

_{Source: CoinMarketCap}

On-chain analysis from Santiment revealed heavy buying by large wallets holding between 1 million and 100 million XRP. These wallets added 453.3 million XRP in a week. Meanwhile, smaller retail wallets holding less than 1 million XRP sold 75.7 million tokens. 

Related article: XRP Achieves Golden Cross on Four-Hour Chart: Bullish Reversal Possible?

The accumulation by whales reflects a broader trend in crypto markets. Large stakeholders often buy during periods of retail-driven uncertainty. 

This pattern has played a key role in sustaining XRP’s momentum, contributing to its impressive market cap growth.

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