XRP Price Rally Stalls as SEC Appeal Decision Looms: $4 Target in Sight?

XRP investors rode an emotional rollercoaster last week. On July 24, the cryptocurrency surged to a monthly high of $3.26, igniting hopes of a sustained rally. But uncertainty quickly clouded the celebration. As the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) remains silent on its potential appeal against Ripple’s partial legal victory, XRP retreated to $3.1453—a 1.26% drop that underscores how regulatory ambiguity continues to throttle momentum. The central question paralyzing traders: Will the SEC abandon its appeal over XRP’s programmatic sales status, clearing a path for explosive growth?

XRP Price Hinges on SEC’s Next Legal Move
The fate of XRP now rests squarely on the SEC’s August 14 deadline to file an appeal. If regulators drop the challenge, it would end a grueling four-year legal battle and affirm that XRP sales to retail investors do not qualify as securities transactions. This clarity could accelerate institutional adoption, including long-awaited XRP spot ETF applications. Market analysts note that such a decision would validate Judge Analisa Torres’ July 2023 ruling, which partially favored Ripple by distinguishing institutional sales from programmatic ones. “Withdrawal would signal regulatory acceptance,” says CryptoLaw founder John Deaton. “It opens doors for XRP ETFs and exchange relistings.” The anticipation has kept trading volumes elevated despite recent dips, with investors betting that legal certainty could propel XRP toward $3.66 and even $4.

Bitcoin’s Slide Highlights Regulatory Uncertainty
While XRP faces SEC pressures, Bitcoin’s stumble below $118,000 reflects broader market anxiety. Traders attribute the dip to conflicting signals from U.S. regulators and lawmakers. Recent Treasury Department reports on crypto risks and stalled BTC-spot ETF approvals have amplified caution. Yet, whispers persist that the U.S. government could classify Bitcoin as a “strategic reserve asset”—a move that might catapult prices toward $122,000. Capitol Hill debates around the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act further muddy the waters. As SEC Chair Gary Gensler maintains his enforcement-heavy stance, investors brace for volatility. “Macro-regulatory shifts outweigh technicals right now,” notes CoinShares analyst James Butterfill.

XRP Outpaces Ethereum and Solana in July Rally
Despite regulatory headwinds, XRP has outperformed major altcoins. In July alone, XRP surged 39%—eclipsing Solana’s 18% rise and nearing Ethereum’s 47% gain. This resilience underscores strong holder confidence in Ripple’s legal position and utility in cross-border payments. Data from Santiment reveals rising whale accumulation, with addresses holding 10M+ XRP growing 3% monthly. Technically, breaking the $3.30 resistance could trigger a parabolic move. As Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse advances partnerships in Africa and Asia, real-world use cases may fuel demand irrespective of SEC brinkmanship.

The ETF Factor and Legislative Wildcards
Approval of an XRP-spot ETF remains the ultimate bullish catalyst. Firms like BlackRock and Fidelity are closely monitoring the SEC’s appeal decision; a withdrawal could fast-track filings. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s trajectory hinges on Congress reconciling pro-innovation bills like FIT21 with the SEC’s cautious stance. Upcoming votes could redefine crypto custody rules and exchange oversight—potentially unlocking $10B+ in institutional capital. As Ripple CLO Stuart Alderoty emphasizes, “Clear legislation, not regulation-by-enforcement, is the only path to U.S. leadership.”

The coming weeks will make or break XRP’s rally. If the SEC drops its appeal, expect a validation surge toward $4. If it fights on, regulatory fog will linger. For Bitcoin, ETF approvals and congressional action hold similar weight. One truth remains: In crypto’s high-stakes arena, policy moves markets faster than code. Monitor the SEC’s August 14 deadline—it could redefine this bull run.

Must Know

What’s the deadline for the SEC’s appeal decision?
The SEC must decide by August 14 whether to appeal Judge Torres’ ruling on XRP programmatic sales. This date aligns with court procedures requiring status reports. A withdrawal would end core litigation.

How high could XRP go if the appeal is dropped?
Analysts at CoinGape project a breakout above $3.30 could trigger rallies to $3.66 and $4. ETF approvals might push prices toward $5 long-term, per CryptoNews estimates.

Why did Bitcoin drop below $118,000?
Bitcoin’s slide stemmed from delayed BTC-spot ETF approvals and U.S. Treasury reports flagging crypto risks. Macro concerns like inflation also pressured prices.

Is XRP really outperforming Ethereum?
Yes. In July, XRP rose 39% versus Ethereum’s 47% and Solana’s 18%. Its relative strength stems from Ripple’s legal wins and payment-network adoption.

Could the U.S. government buy Bitcoin?
Speculation persists after pro-crypto lawmakers proposed designating Bitcoin a “strategic reserve asset.” While unlikely short-term, such a move would boost legitimacy.