What next for XRP as volatility sinks to 2024 lows
Technical traders see a compression setup, with $1.39 as key support and $1.44 as near-term resistance that could open a move toward $1.50 to $1.62 if reclaimed.
By Shaurya Malwa
Feb 20, 2026, 1:08 p.m.
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XRP held steady near $1.42 as volatility dropped to levels last seen before a major 2024 rally, raising questions about whether the downtrend is exhausting.
News Background
- XRP has declined roughly 61% from its all-time high during the current stretch of market turbulence, but recent price action suggests the selloff may be slowing. Losses have moderated into consolidation, with small gains across shorter timeframes replacing sharp directional moves.
- Notably, XRP’s historical volatility has fallen to 96, matching levels last seen in June 2024 — a period that marked the bottom of a prior downtrend before a rally into November.
- The compression has fueled speculation that XRP may be entering a similar base-building phase.
- Some analysts point to parallels with earlier cycle structures, including the extended consolidation that preceded the 2017 breakout.
Price Action Summary
- XRP slipped 0.14% to $1.42
- Price tested and held support near $1.39
- Volume surged nearly 94% above average during the breakdown
- Recovery stalled near $1.428–$1.431 resistance
Technical Analysis
- The session’s key moment came when XRP tested $1.3915 on heavy volume before stabilizing. While the bounce completed a 38.2% retracement, momentum faded as price approached $1.44, the daily pivot and near-term ceiling.
- Structure remains cautious below $1.44–$1.45, but the successful defense of $1.39 suggests sellers are losing urgency. Declining volume during consolidation points to compression rather than fresh distribution.
What traders say is next?
- Traders view this as a compression setup.
- If XRP reclaims $1.44, it opens room toward $1.50 and potentially $1.62.
If $1.39 breaks, downside risk shifts toward $1.35.
- With volatility near prior cycle lows, the next decisive move may be less about direction now — and more about how long this compression can hold before expansion resumes.
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