Market Strategist: Everyone Gave Up On XRP. Here’s Why

After months of declining prices and growing skepticism, XRP finds itself in a market dominated by fear and uncertainty. Retail participation is extremely low, and sentiment has turned overwhelmingly bearish.

Yet, this very environment is drawing the attention of seasoned analysts who see opportunity where most see risk. Historical patterns suggest that moments of extreme fear often precede some of the most substantial rallies in cryptocurrency.

Analyst’s Perspective

Market commentator Steph IS CRYPTO recently shared an in-depth analysis on his X handle, highlighting why the current XRP situation could be a precursor to a major move.

According to Steph, “This is the moment where most people give up on XRP and crypto right before a potential big move in the market.” He emphasizes that low retail activity and extreme fear often align with historically opportune entry points.

Everyone Gave Up on #XRP pic.twitter.com/4KpDXrIuyl

— STEPH IS CRYPTO (@Steph_iscrypto) December 17, 2025

Steph points out that XRP is forming a potential higher low on the daily chart, maintaining support above the October 10th liquidation point.

He draws parallels to 2017 and 2024, when similar liquidation wicks were followed by extended consolidation and explosive rallies. “Of course, no guarantee that it is exactly going to play out the same,” he cautions, “but it is definitely something to consider, especially because there is extreme fear in this market.”

Technical Indicators Show Key Support

On the weekly chart, XRP is experiencing price compression, squeezed between a descending resistance line and a long-term support line. Steph notes that the asset is still holding above yearly support levels that have repeatedly triggered bullish reactions in the past.

Breaking above key resistance zones, particularly around $2.20, aligned with the 50-day moving average, would signal strength in the market. The next resistance sits near $2.50, coinciding with the 100-day moving average and an important volume cluster.

Steph adds, “Most of the liquidity is above us, so it is very likely at some point that price is going to take out this liquidity in the form of a short squeeze.” This reinforces the idea that the current consolidation may be setting the stage for a significant breakout.

Institutional Flows Provide Hidden Support

Despite retail fear, institutional investors are quietly accumulating XRP. U.S.-listed spot XRP ETFs have recorded over $1 billion in cumulative net inflows since their launch on November 13th.

Steph explains, “Institutions are currently buying XRP from OTC, not from the open market, but at some point, they have to buy from the open market, and that is the point from where we will see more price appreciation hopefully for XRP.”

This institutional accumulation creates a disconnect between price action and underlying demand, highlighting the potential for sudden upward momentum.

Macroeconomic Context

Recent U.S. economic data adds another layer of complexity. Rising unemployment at 4.6% and upcoming CPI releases could impact crypto markets significantly. Steph observes that softer inflation would reinforce the disinflation narrative, supporting risk assets, while higher inflation could create short-term downside pressure.

Coupled with news from SEC Chair Paul Atkins and supportive comments from the Trump administration, the broader regulatory environment is increasingly favorable for crypto.

In conclusion, XRP is currently navigating a period of compression, fear, and institutional accumulation. As Steph succinctly puts it, “When everyone is very bearish, everyone expects lower prices; that is usually where the biggest opportunity is.”

While no outcome is guaranteed, the convergence of technical, institutional, and macro factors makes the coming weeks critical for XRP. Traders and investors may find that the moment when everyone gave up could mark the beginning of its next significant rally.