The price of XRP reached $2.41 on January 6, 2026, marking a significant increase of 36.15% from its low of $1.77 in December. This surge has been interpreted as a correction rather than mere hype, according to Charles Hoskinson, the founder of Cardano. He attributes this rally to the departure of Gary Gensler from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which has led to renewed interest among investors.
Since the beginning of 2026, XRP has gained 30.43%, indicating a resurgence in investor confidence. Hoskinson noted that the easing of regulatory pressure has contributed to this positive momentum. Gensler”s tenure at the SEC was marked by a strict approach to digital asset regulation, which included intensifying legal battles against Ripple.
With Gensler”s departure in early 2025, the legal situation surrounding Ripple began moving toward resolution, prompting investors to reassess their positions on XRP. Hoskinson stated that the recent price movement reflects a return to historical market values, asserting, “It”s not surprising to see XRP move back toward its historical place in the market.”
Many in the cryptocurrency community recognize XRP as one of the oldest and most established assets. Despite a dip to around $1.50 in October 2025 after a brief summer rally, the asset has demonstrated a strong recovery, climbing from $1.84 at the start of 2026 to its current price.
Moreover, the future of XRP may be bolstered by growing interest in decentralized finance (DeFi) initiatives and potential exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In an unexpected outreach, Hoskinson engaged with the XRP community regarding a proposed DeFi summit at the University of Edinburgh, which signals a desire to build connections despite previous tensions.
As discussions around XRP evolve, factors such as legal clarity and expanding use cases could pave the way for further price appreciation. Analysts are watching closely to see if XRP can revisit its July 2025 high of $3.65 or exceed it.
In summary, the recent price movements of XRP reflect a significant shift in market sentiment, driven by regulatory changes and community engagement. As the landscape continues to evolve, both institutional and retail investors are likely to keep a close eye on this cryptocurrency.
